If authorities have convicted you of an OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) in Wisconsin, you may wonder whether you can remove the conviction from your record. Expungement laws typically apply to minor offenses, but Wisconsin allows some individuals to clear their criminal record. It’s important to understand the circumstances under which expungement applies, especially for OWI convictions.
What is expungement in Wisconsin?
Expungement in Wisconsin refers to removing a criminal conviction from your record so that most background checks can no longer access it. However, not every conviction qualifies for expungement, and OWI convictions are harder to expunge. If authorities convicted you before your 25th birthday for a less severe offense, you might qualify.
Expungement eligibility for OWI convictions
Eligibility for OWI expungement is limited. If you committed a first offense and it was a misdemeanor, you might qualify for expungement, but only under specific conditions. The court will consider factors such as the offense’s nature and your behavior since the conviction before deciding whether expungement is possible.
Long-term effects of an OWI conviction
Although expungement is possible in some cases, an OWI conviction can have lasting consequences. Authorities typically classify OWI convictions as misdemeanors in Wisconsin, but they still carry serious penalties. A conviction can result in driver’s license suspension, fines, mandatory alcohol treatment, and even jail time. It can also appear on background checks, affecting your ability to find work or housing.
If you’ve been convicted of an OWI and are considering expungement, it’s important to understand the complexity of the process. Seeking guidance from a legal professional can clarify your eligibility and help you navigate the expungement process.
What if you’re not eligible for expungement?
If you aren’t eligible for expungement, other options may be available. Depending on your case, you might petition for a sentence reduction or post-conviction relief. You may be able to request a reduced charge or even seek a pardon.
Even if expungement isn’t an option, understanding your conviction’s impact and working with a legal professional to explore alternatives can help minimize long-term consequences.
Removing an OWI conviction from your record is challenging, but it is possible in some cases. Stay informed and take the necessary steps to understand your options.
