Michigan’s current OWI expungement laws went into effect in February of 2022. The laws allow offenders with a first-time Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) conviction the opportunity to eliminate it from their criminal record. 

Qualifying for OWI Expungement in Michigan

To be eligible, you must only have one offense on your record and that offense cannot have caused another person’s death or injury. In addition, a period of 5 years must pass after your probationary term ends to apply.

An OWI expungement will clear the public record of the offense. Therefore, it will no longer appear in a background check, however, law enforcement still has a non-public record. If you receive an OWI expungement, you will no longer have to disclose that offense on job applications or other forms. In addition, those that have received OWI expungements in the past have enjoyed higher wages, better housing, lower insurance rates, etc.

The expungement process in Michigan is complex and time-consuming. There are many steps involved in this process and if you miss one, make a mistake, or get denied, you must wait 3 years before applying again.

How to Get an OWI Expunged in Michigan

To file for a OWI expungement in Michigan, you need to:

1. Obtain your criminal record (Order a copy)
2. Go to your local police station and have your fingerprints taken
3. File an application with the court clerk
4. Mail copies of your application to the prosecutor, Attorney General, and State Police, and
5. Prepare and attend your hearing.

It is imperative that you get this process right the first time. The longer you wait, the longer this smudge remains on your record.

Get Help from a Michigan OWI Expungement Lawyer

An experienced attorney can make this process much smoother for you and your family. Do you want to get started on expunging your OWI conviction? Terry Priest is an experienced Metro Detroit defense attorney.

Call Terry today at (248) 380-0000 for a free consultation.