A DUI/DWI conviction will appear on a criminal background check requested by a prospective employer, landlord, or licensing authority, for example. Generally, the only way to remove a DUI/DWI conviction from appearing in some or all of such background checks is to have it expunged or sealed—which is only possible in limited circumstances.
In Alabama, a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) conviction is considered a criminal offense and will appear on a criminal background check. This can affect an individual's opportunities when it comes to employment, housing, and professional licensing. Alabama law does allow for expungement of certain criminal records, including DUI convictions, under specific conditions. To be eligible for expungement, the individual must meet criteria such as not having a prior felony conviction, and the DUI charge must have been dismissed with prejudice, no-billed by a grand jury, or the person was found not guilty. If the DUI conviction resulted in a sentence, the individual must have completed the sentence and any probation, and a statutorily defined period must have passed before applying for expungement. It's important to note that not all DUI convictions are eligible for expungement, and the process involves petitioning the court and potentially a hearing. An attorney can provide guidance on the likelihood of expungement in a specific case and assist with the process.