Maryland DUI records are a collection of data regarding individuals found guilty of driving under the influence in Maryland. This database is split into two sections: convictions before July 1, 2017, and those occurring after this date. Maryland DUI records significantly shape public perception and can impact various aspects of your life. These records are not only accessible to law enforcement but also to potential employers, landlords, and others conducting background checks. Understanding how these records affect your public criminal record is crucial for managing your reputation and future opportunities. If you have been convicted of a DUI in Maryland, you must know how long this information remains on your record and what steps you can take to mitigate its impact.
Maryland DUI records are accessible to the public under the Public Information Act. They can be easily searched using the Maryland Criminal Justice Information System by name or date.
What Does the Maryland Criminal Justice Information System Include?
The Maryland Criminal Justice Information System contains various details about an individual’s criminal history, including:
- Full name
- Social Security number
- Driver’s license number
- Date of birth
- Physical description
- Photograph
- Pending charges
DUIs are serious offenses in the United States and can greatly disrupt your life. A DUI infraction typically remains on your public criminal record for at least five years. However, it can stay longer if you were convicted of a DUI while committing another crime (such as domestic violence) or under specific conditions.
To avoid a DUI conviction or seek removal of an arrest or conviction from your public criminal record, consider hiring experienced Maryland DUI Lawyers like The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates. Attorneys can access databases and resources, including police department case records, the Maryland State Archives, and other Maryland judiciary resources, to assist with your case.
Understanding DUI and DWI Offenses in Maryland
Maryland enforces strict driving laws and penalties, making comprehending the distinctions between DUI and DWI offenses crucial.
DUI Penalties:
In Maryland, a DUI offense can lead to up to 90 days in jail, probation, fines, and a license suspension. It’s essential to seek legal guidance if you get arrested for driving after drinking alcohol, using drugs, or taking medication.
DWI Penalties:
A DWI offense carries punishments like spending up to 180 days in jail or paying fines ranging from $500 to $2500, probation, and license suspension. Repeated offenses may lead to harsher consequences, including longer jail terms and increased fines.
Talking to a lawyer who knows about these kinds of situations is important.
Are you worried about the impact of a DUI arrest on your record?
Unfortunately, yes, it will show up in background checks, and the record sticks around for a while. For instance, if you’re convicted, it could be there for a decade you’re concerned about the long-term repercussions of a DUI arrest on your record, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, the implications can be significant, impacting various aspects of your life, from employment opportunities to personal relationships. Moreover, multiple DUIs can exacerbate the situation, potentially prolonging the duration of the record’s visibility. In light of these potential consequences, seeking guidance from an experienced attorney is paramount.
A lawyer can advise you on what you can do legally about DUI charges. This might help lessen the impact on your record and your future opportunities. Multiple DUIs can make it even worse. Given these consequences, reaching out to a knowledgeable attorney for guidance is crucial if you face a DUI charge.
Accessing Public Records of DUIs in Maryland
In Maryland, the Motor Vehicle Administration is the central office for public records about drivers, such as their driving history, vehicle registrations, and driver’s licenses.
You can request a copy of your driving record by mail or in person. The MVA typically provides certified paper records within 15 days of receiving the request.
The District Court and Circuit Courts maintain public records accessible at the courthouse and online. When visiting the clerk’s office, you can specify the case record you need, even if you don’t have the case number. The clerk can assist in locating the paper records using the names of the individuals involved.
Additionally, you can request copies of court documents, though there may be fees associated with obtaining these copies. Alternatively, you can access electronic records through the Maryland Judiciary Resources.
How Long Do Maryland DUI Records Last?
The duration that a DUI conviction record stays available to the public varies from state to state. In Maryland, DUI arrest records are kept for ten years. After that period, they are deleted from the system, meaning they’re no longer accessible.
Why You Might Want to Expunge a Maryland DUI Conviction
A DUI conviction can seriously impact your career prospects and personal reputation. It’s natural to want to clear your record to avoid these repercussions.
However, a DUI conviction in Maryland will remain on your court records unless you actively seek to have it removed. Consult skilled lawyers like The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates to help clear your criminal record. They can offer professional advice and representation to help you navigate the eviction process effectively.
Understanding the Hicks Rule in Maryland
Personal injury cases can get complicated, especially if they’re related to DUI accidents. The Hicks Rule decides when you can file a personal injury lawsuit. It says you have a certain amount of time to do it, from when you discovered the injury to when you should have known about it.
Your attorney will have access to essential documents to defend you against a personal injury claim. These might include case records, death records, land records, police records, and property records.
Suppose you’re facing charges for driving while intoxicated; getting help and legal support from The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates is essential. Especially if you believe you’re innocent or need further information, you can reach us at (301) 840-0080.
