As a DUI attorney in Irvine CA, one of the most common questions I get is whether or not a DUI conviction will show up on a background check. The short answer is that it will – unless the criminal record has been expunged or sealed. Read on to learn what your options are if you have been convicted of a DUI and what to do if you are currently being charged. Then reach out to Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 for a free legal consultation.

Basic background checks

The first thing a DUI attorney in Irvine CA will tell you about DUIs showing up on background checks is that it depends on the type of background check. The most common type of background check given is one that is based entirely on a person’s social security number. This is most commonly used by a potential employer or landlord.

Theoretically, if a DUI has been expunged then it will not show up on this basic background check. However, it will sometimes show up. The good news is that neither an employer nor a landlord can legally take this into account if the conviction has been expunged or sealed, with a few exceptions. For example, if a person is applying to be a police officer.

Comprehensive background checks

The next thing a DUI attorney in Irvine CA is likely to tell you is that comprehensive background checks are different. These are those that are based on the fingerprints of the person. This is the type of background check more likely to be used if a person is trying to get licensed by a state agency or if they are applying for a position within law enforcement.

Some employers do use the fingerprint background check. For example, jobs in the banking, healthcare, education, or security-sensitive fields. A comprehensive background check shows the entire criminal history – even arrests that did not lead to convictions. It will also indicate if the conviction has been pardoned, sealed, or expunged.

We may be able to help you have your DUI conviction sealed or expunged

If you have met all the requirements of your conviction, you did not spend time in state prison for your DUI, and you are not currently facing any type of additional criminal charges, then you may be eligible to have your DUI conviction expunged or sealed. We can review your case and let you know what your reasonable options are.

Call a DUI attorney in Irvine CA today

Whether you have just been arrested and are about to face charges, or you have already plead guilty or been convicted and served your time, we can help. To speak to an experienced, compassionate, and aggressive DUI attorney in Irvine CA, reach out to Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 for a free legal consultation.