A DUI charge can have lasting effects on many aspects of your life—your ability to drive, employment opportunities, and even your reputation. One of the most frequent questions we hear is, “How long will this stay on my record?”
The answer isn’t straightforward. It depends on the type of record in question and whether steps are taken to reduce or mitigate the charge. In this blog, our experienced team at LaCross & Murphy in Washington breaks it down so you can understand the long-term implications of a DUI in Washington.
DUI on Your Criminal Record
In Washington, a DUI conviction is considered a gross misdemeanor, and it remains permanently on your criminal record. Unlike other states, Washington does not allow DUIs to be expunged or removed from your record. This means if you’re convicted, the offense will appear on background checks for life unless the charge is reduced or dismissed.
Employers, landlords, and others who review your criminal history may see the conviction, making it crucial to handle a DUI charge carefully with the help of an experienced DUI attorney.
DUI on Your Driving Record in Washington
Your driving record is separate from your criminal record and is managed by the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL). A DUI will remain on your driving record for 99 years, effectively making it a permanent mark.
However, the practical impact on your driving privileges and insurance rates is typically more immediate. For most insurance companies, the DUI will only affect your rates for a set period, often three to five years. During this time, expect significant increases in your premiums.
Additionally, the Washington DOL may require you to install an ignition interlock device or complete an alcohol/drug education program as part of your reinstatement process after a DUI-related license suspension.
DUI and the Lookback Period
Washington uses a “lookback period” of seven years for determining penalties for repeat DUI offenses. If you are charged with another DUI within seven years of a prior conviction, the penalties escalate significantly, including longer jail sentences, higher fines, and lengthier license suspensions.
After seven years, subsequent DUIs will generally be treated as a first offense for sentencing purposes. However, this doesn’t erase the earlier conviction from your criminal or driving records.
Can You Avoid a DUI Conviction on Your Record?
While a DUI conviction stays on your record permanently, it may be possible to avoid a conviction altogether. Options include:
- Negotiating a Reduction: In some cases, a DUI charge can be reduced to reckless driving or negligent driving. These offenses carry less severe penalties and don’t come with the same lifelong stigma. Having a trial lawyer in your corner makes it more likely the State will offer this type of reduction.
- Deferred Prosecution: If you can demonstrate that substance abuse or mental health issues contributed to the DUI, you may qualify for deferred prosecution. This involves completing a treatment program and meeting court-ordered conditions. Successful completion can result in the dismissal of your DUI charge after five years.
- Challenging the Evidence: With the right legal strategy, it’s possible to challenge the evidence against you, such as breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, or the legality of the traffic stop.
Our experienced DUI attorneys at LaCross & Murphy can help you explore these options and determine the best path forward.
Why It’s Important to Act Quickly
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Washington, the clock starts ticking immediately. You only have seven days from your arrest to request a hearing to challenge the suspension of your driver’s license. Acting quickly gives your attorney the best chance to preserve your driving privileges and build a strong defense.
At LaCross & Murphy, we’ve helped countless clients in Port Orchard and Kitsap County minimize the impact of DUI charges on their lives. Whether it’s going to trial, negotiating a reduction, challenging evidence, or guiding you through deferred prosecution, we’re here to fight for your rights and your future.
Contact a Port Orchard DUI Attorney Today
A DUI doesn’t have to define your future. With the right legal strategy, you can navigate this challenging time and move forward with confidence.
Contact the experienced attorneys at LaCross & Murphy in Port Orchard, Washington, to schedule a consultation. We’ll assess your case, explain your options, and provide the guidance you need to protect your record and your rights.
Get started today—don’t let a DUI dictate your future.
