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Minnesota has specific laws regarding expungement, including for driving under the influence (DUI) arrest records and convictions. However, not all DUI arrests are eligible for expungement. Eligibility depends on the degree of the DUI offense and your criminal history.
A drinking and driving conviction can have serious consequences. You might be wondering who can access DUI arrest records in Edina and if you can expunge the offense from your permanent record. A knowledgeable drinking and driving attorney could advise you of your options.
Minnesota law generally restricts the public’s access to arrest records. However, some information can be obtained through other channels:
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) offers online access to public criminal history records through the CHS system. This database includes convictions for:
The MCRO provides access to court case records and court proceedings rather than arrest records. It may be a useful tool for finding information about a specific case, including charges, but it will not necessarily show DUI arrest records.
Arrest records for misdemeanors like a DUI are not required to be reported but may be included at the discretion of the law enforcement agency.
Under certain circumstances, those charged with or convicted of a DUI may be able to have their arrest record expunged. However, eligibility depends on the nature of the offense and whether it was their first or subsequent charge.
For first-time offenders with a BAC under 0.16, this is typically a misdemeanor. It is generally eligible for expungement two years after the completion of the sentence.
This is considered a gross misdemeanor and is more difficult to expunge, but it is possible after four years of a clean record.
A first-degree DUI is a felony, so it is not eligible for expungement.
Remember, those seeking to expunge their arrest record must wait the allotted period of time before petitioning the court. Likewise, a clean criminal record after the arrest is crucial to having the offense expunged. It is highly recommended that you consult a Minnesota DUI defense lawyer for questions related to your arrest record or the expungement process.
When you are charged with a DUI, it is crucial to hire a defense attorney. In some cases, a lawyer will be able to negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or negotiate a plea agreement on your behalf. We understand how stressful DUI charges can be and want to help you obtain the best possible result for your case. Contact a skilled legal professional from our firm if you have questions regarding your DUI arrest records in Edina or to discuss your options for expungement.