DUI Expungement in Delaware

What is DUI expungement, and is it possible in Delaware?

DUI expungement is the legal process of having a DUI conviction or other related charge removed from one’s criminal record. In Delaware, it is possible to have a DUI expunged from one’s record under certain conditions. Generally, one must wait at least five years after the completion of all requirements of their sentence before they can file a petition for expungement. The court will then review the petition and consider factors such as the type of offense and whether or not it is a first-time offense.

What are the eligibility criteria for DUI expungement in Delaware?

In Delaware, DUI expungement is available only to first-time DUI offenders. The offender’s charge must have been dismissed or resulted in an acquittal or conviction of a lesser crime. Additionally, the offender must not have any other criminal convictions on their record, and the offense must have occurred at least 10 years ago. The offender must also have paid all fines associated with the DUI offense, and they must have successfully completed any applicable probation or community service requirements.

Is there a waiting period before someone can apply for DUI expungement in Delaware?

Yes, there is. The waiting period for DUI expungement in Delaware is five years from the date of conviction or completion of all sentence requirements, whichever comes later.

What types of DUI convictions may be eligible for expungement in Delaware?

In Delaware, DUI convictions may be eligible for expungement in certain cases. To be eligible, the DUI conviction must meet certain criteria, including: (1) the conviction must have occurred more than five years ago; (2) the conviction must not have resulted in an injury or death; (3) the individual must not have any other felony or misdemeanor convictions on their record; and (4) the individual must not have any pending charges at the time of filing. Depending on the specific facts and circumstances surrounding an individual’s DUI conviction, they may also be eligible for limited expungement if their sentence did not involve actual jail or prison time.

Are there specific conditions or rehabilitation programs required for expungement eligibility in Delaware?

In Delaware, there are no specific conditions or rehabilitation programs required for expungement eligibility. However, the court may consider evidence of rehabilitation or other factors when deciding whether a person is eligible for expungement. These factors include the applicant’s age at the time of the offense, the length of time since the offense occurred, and any evidence of the applicant’s rehabilitation or good character since the offense.

How does someone initiate the DUI expungement process in Delaware?

In order to initiate the DUI expungement process in Delaware, individuals will need to fill out the appropriate paperwork, which can be obtained through the Delaware Department of Justice Office of the Attorney General. Individuals should then submit the paperwork along with a copy of their driver’s license and a certified copy of their court records to the Department of Justice. Once the paperwork is received, a judge will review and consider the request and decide whether or not to grant an expungement.

What documentation or evidence is needed when applying for expungement in Delaware?

When applying for expungement in Delaware, applicants must provide the following documentation and evidence: a completed and signed petition for expungement; a certified copy of the final judgment of conviction, if available; a completed and signed Expungement Acknowledgement Form; and any other documents or letters of recommendation requested by the court. The petitioner must also present evidence that demonstrates good moral character, such as letters of reference from employers, community leaders, or friends.

Are there fees associated with filing for DUI expungement in Delaware?

Yes, there are fees associated with filing for DUI expungement in Delaware. The filing fee is $255 for a criminal record that is eligible for expungement. Additionally, there are other fees that may be incurred, such as a state fee of $50 and a fee for processing fingerprints if required.

Can individuals with multiple DUI convictions apply for expungement in Delaware?

No. Under Delaware law, convictions for DUI cannot be expunged, so individuals with multiple DUI convictions cannot apply for expungement in Delaware.

Does expungement result in the complete removal of the DUI record, or is it sealed in Delaware?

In Delaware, expungement results in the complete removal of the DUI record. The record will no longer be publicly available and any information about the DUI will no longer be accessible or shared with employers, educational institutions, licensing agencies, or other third parties.

How do employers, landlords, and background check companies view expunged DUI records in Delaware?

Employers, landlords, and background check companies in Delaware will not be able to access expunged DUI records. This means that the DUI record will no longer be available for review or consideration when making decisions about employment or housing.

Is there a difference between expungement and setting aside a DUI conviction in Delaware?

Yes, there is a difference between expungement and setting aside a DUI conviction in Delaware. Expungement is the legal process of sealing an individual’s criminal record so that it cannot be accessed by the public. Setting aside a DUI conviction means that the individual’s conviction is still considered valid, but the court can suspend or reduce certain penalties depending on the individual’s history and circumstances.

Can expunged DUI records be used against an individual in future DUI cases in Delaware?

No. Once a DUI record is expunged in Delaware, it cannot be used as evidence in future DUI cases.

Do expunged DUI records affect professional licensing or certifications in Delaware?

It depends on the type of professional licensing or certification. Generally, expunged DUI convictions do not appear as part of a background check and will not affect professional licensing or certifications in Delaware. However, in some cases, the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation may consider an expunged DUI conviction as part of an application for certain licenses or certifications. In these cases, it is best to contact the Division directly to discuss your specific situation.

Are there any restrictions on firearm ownership after DUI expungement in Delaware?

Yes. The Delaware State Police will still have records of an individual’s DUI conviction after it has been expunged and, as such, an individual convicted of a DUI in Delaware is still prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm.

Is there a waiting period for expungement to take effect after approval in Delaware?

Yes, there is a waiting period for expungement to take effect after approval in Delaware. After the expungement petition has been approved, the court must wait five days before entering its final Order of Expungement. The expungement will then become effective five days after the Order of Expungement is entered.

What role does the court or prosecutor play in the DUI expungement process in Delaware?

In Delaware, the court and the prosecutor play a major role in the DUI expungement process. First, the court must determine if the applicant is eligible for expungement. The court will review the applicant’s criminal record and any other relevant information to make this determination. Once eligibility is established, the court will determine if a “substantial showing of rehabilitation” has been made and issue an Order Granting Expungement. The prosecutor may also be involved in the expungement process, as they have the right to oppose an expungement petition if they believe the applicant does not demonstrate substantial rehabilitation.

Are there resources or organizations that provide guidance on DUI expungement in Delaware?

Yes, there are several resources and organizations that provide guidance on DUI expungement in Delaware. The Delaware State Bar Association’s website has information on expungement law in Delaware. The Delaware Supreme Court’s website also has information on the expungement process in Delaware, as well as a list of attorneys who specialize in DUI expungement. Additionally, the Delaware Division of Alcohol & Tobacco Enforcement has published a guide on DUI expungement in Delaware. Finally, the Delaware Office of Defense Services can provide assistance with the DUI expungement process in Delaware.

What is the timeline for completing the DUI expungement process in Delaware?

The timeline for completing the DUI expungement process in Delaware depends on the specific circumstances of the case and can vary significantly. Generally, once the application is received, it takes approximately 8-12 weeks for the Court to hear and decide on the petition. After the petition is approved, it can then take up to four weeks for the courts to enter an Order of Expungement.

How does DUI expungement impact immigration status, if applicable in Delaware?

In Delaware, DUI expungement does not impact a person’s immigration status. Expunging a DUI conviction does not erase the record of the conviction from any immigration or Customs Enforcement databases. Therefore, a DUI conviction that has been expunged can still be used to deny entry into the United States.