Many individuals need to pass a background check in California. What if you have a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) on your record? Can you pass a background check with a DUI in California?
You may pass a background check in some cases. Getting your charges expunged may help you pass these checks. Find out more about the impact of a DUI charge right here. You can also learn about the expungement process in California.
Find Out Who Uses Background Checks in California
Many different parties may perform a background check on you. Background checks are often performed by:
- Potential employers before they hire you.
- Institutions for higher education.
- Landlords for properties you’d like to rent.
- Licensing associations for some careers.
Any of the above organizations could perform a criminal background check on you. They may perform a background check using your social security number (SSN). Many employers and landlords use this kind of verification. Other individuals use your fingerprints, which may return more detailed results. However, a DUI charge could show up in either type of background check.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
California’s “Ban the Box” Law and Background Checks
A DUI conviction may show up on your background check in California — this does not mean that it will impact your ability to get a job or get into college. Many organizations may give you a second chance, even with a DUI on your record.
The state of California has taken steps to support individuals with prior convictions. The Fair Chance Act limits the ability of employers to consider your criminal record in many cases. Employers must wait until after they’ve made a conditional job offer before they look at:
- Your past convictions.
- Any arrests that didn’t result in a conviction.
- Expunged convictions.
- Sealed convictions.
Employers must also speak with you about your criminal record after they review it. In some cases, an employer may decide to hire you even if you have a DUI on your criminal record. Note that employers are not legally required to hire you. They do not have to overlook a DUI conviction in California.
You May Get a DUI Charge Expunged in California
You could have some DUI charges in California expunged from your record. Expungement seals a DUI charge. While the charge may still appear on your record, the expungement should be noted. Expunged charges should not count against you on a background check.
Not all drivers are eligible to have their records expunged. You may speak with a DUI lawyer to find out if expungement would work in your case. You may have your record expunged if:
- You carried out the court-ordered penalties for your DUI.
- You did not serve prison time after a DUI conviction.
- You are not facing any additional criminal charges in California.
A lawyer could work to get your DUI conviction expunged. Begin the process today by reaching out to a law firm in California.
Understand the Limits of a DUI Expungement in California
You should know that an expungement doesn’t erase all of the effects of a DUI conviction. Your DUI charge still shows up on your driving record. A DUI conviction remains on this record for 10 years. During this period, it may be seen by your insurance company. Law enforcement may also be aware of this conviction. A DUI still counts against you if you are arrested for a subsequent charge.
Additionally, expungements may appear on your record. However, employers are not legally allowed to consider an expunged charge. However, you may want to take steps to handle a DUI before you are convicted.
You could keep a conviction off of your record by working with a lawyer. Your lawyer may take steps to get your charge dismissed. A lawyer could also reduce your charge through a plea bargain. Your lawyer could even defend you in court. Consider building a strong DUI defense right now by contacting a legal team.
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Discuss Passing a Background Check with a DUI Right Now
You may have difficulty passing a background check with a DUI in California. Employers, colleges, and your landlord may look at your background check. You may focus on limiting the impact of a DUI with the Simmrin Law Group. Talk to us about getting your record expunged. You may reach us easily to get a free consultation.
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Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form