My three-year probation ended on January 20, 2018. In the early days of my probation, I thought I would be gung-ho about getting the record expunged. When the date rolled around, I had more of a “when I get to it” attitude. I think that generally reflects how I feel about the DUI. It’s not something I’m proud of, but it isn’t the end of the world.
Nevertheless, I gave my lawyer a call a month later and asked about the expungement. It was a brief call. I was asked to make out a check for $120 to the Los Angeles Superior Court and send it to her office. She would file the expungement paperwork with the check, but wouldn’t charge me extra.
Two more months passed by and I never heard from my lawyer, but I noticed the check was cashed. On May 1st, she sent me an e-mail saying that the expungement was processed and she would send me a copy of the court document. I never received one, but I haven’t felt like I needed it.
Last month I decided to run a criminal background check on myself after seeing someone I know who is an HR professional post something about it on LinkedIn. I ordered a background check from GoodHire and my record came back clean. I can safely say to most prospective employers that I don’t have a criminal record, but should still be careful how I answer based on the wording of the question. (e.g. Have you ever been arrested?) The DUI will also be active on my DMV record for another 7 years, but I can live with that.
The other requirement that ended was the need to have an SR-22 on file with the DMV. One less $15 I need to spend!
DUI Blues 