Towson DUI Expungement Attorney

DUI Defense Lawyer for Expungement in Towson, MD

People who are arrested for DUI or other offenses may be affected by these issues for years to come. A record of a DUI arrest or conviction can have lasting effects on a person's future. While Maryland allows for expungement in some situations that can help clear a person's record, this is not always an option for people who have been convicted of DUI. Attorney Kirk Seaman and our team can help people in Towson and the surrounding areas understand their options for expungement. We can provide assistance to help people clear their records when possible.

What Is Expungement?

Expungement is the legal process of removing certain information from a person's record. Once a record is expunged, it is no longer accessible to the public, meaning that employers, landlords, or others who perform background checks will not be able to view the record. This can offer significant benefits, particularly for those who are trying to secure employment, housing, or other opportunities that might be impacted by a past DUI arrest or conviction.

While expungement can provide important relief, DUI convictions in Maryland are generally not eligible for expungement. However, there are certain situations in which a DUI charge may be expunged, such as when the case did not result in a guilty verdict. Expungement may also be available after a certain amount of time has passed since a person received Probation Before Judgment (PBJ).

Expungement for Cases That Did Not Result in a Conviction

In Maryland, expungement will typically only be available for records related to DUI cases where a person was not convicted. If a person was found not guilty or had the charges dismissed, they can usually have their records expunged. If the charges against a person were dropped by the prosecutor (known as "nolle prosequi"), or if a case was indefinitely postponed (known as a "stet"), expungement will also be available. A person will usually be eligible for expungement three years after the disposition of their case.

Expungement After Receiving Probation Before Judgment (PBJ)

Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) is a common outcome in DUI cases, particularly for first-time offenders. PBJ allows a person to avoid a conviction by agreeing to meet certain conditions, such as paying fines, completing alcohol education programs, or performing community service. While a person who receives PBJ is not technically convicted of DUI, the record of their charge and probation will remain visible to the public, which can still impact their life.

Previously, Maryland law did not allow for the expungement of DUI cases in which a person received PBJ. However, this has changed following the passage of a new law. Beginning October 1, 2024, people who received PBJ for a DUI charge will be eligible to have their records expunged 15 years after the PBJ was completed.

To be eligible for expungement under this law, a person must meet certain conditions. The most important requirement is that they must not have been convicted of another DUI or DWI offense in the 15 years following the original PBJ. They must also have met all conditions to successfully complete probation. Those who meet the eligibility requirements can petition the court to have their record expunged, removing the PBJ and the original DUI charge from public view.

How We Can Help With Expungement of DUI Charges

If you are seeking expungement of a DUI charge in Towson, it is important to have a thorough understanding of Maryland's expungement laws and the specific circumstances that may allow you to clear your record. At Kirk Seaman, LLC, we are dedicated to helping people navigate the expungement process and pursue the relief they are entitled to under the law.

We can help you determine whether you are eligible for expungement based on the details of your case, including whether you were found not guilty, had the charges dropped, or received PBJ. If you qualify for expungement, we can guide you through the steps necessary to petition the court and have your record cleared. Our experienced attorney will ensure that your petition is properly filed and that your case is handled efficiently, giving you the best chance of success.

Contact Our Towson, Maryland DUI Expungement Lawyer

We understand that having a DUI charge on your record can create significant challenges in your personal and professional life. Our skilled legal team can help you take advantage of Maryland's expungement laws so that you can move forward with your life. Whether you are seeking expungement for a case that did not result in a conviction or may be eligible for relief after receiving PBJ, we can help you through every step of the expungement process. Contact us at 410-837-6077 to set up a free consultation and learn more about your legal options.