Switch to ADA Accessible Theme
Close Menu
Atlanta Criminal Defense Lawyers > Blog > DUI > Do DUI Convictions Carry from State to State?

Do DUI Convictions Carry from State to State?

Being arrested for driving under the influence is certainly stressful. This is true no matter the number of times you’ve been arrested for that offense before, but it is especially true when it is your first offense. You don’t know what to expect, and you may not know what comes next. Only adding to that stress if wondering if your conviction will carry over into different states.

For example, if you are traveling for work or pleasure and are arrested for driving under the influence in your host state, you will eventually return home. You will have to answer for your charges in the state in which you were arrested and you may be convicted. If you are, do you have to worry about legal repercussions in your own state? The short answer is: probably.

How the Laws Have Changed

In years past, you may not have had to worry about this. Today, there is a consortium for sharing DUI convictions. The majority of states in the country participate in this information consortium. The good news, if there is anything good, is that the consortium only shares information about convictions and not arrests.

If you are arrested for driving under the influence in your state, the judge, if your state is a member state, will use information about convictions in other states to determine whether or not you are a repeat offender. Your consequences, therefore, could be more severe. For instance, in California, any DUI convictions that have occurred in other states will be treated like in-state convictions. This same scenario occurs in many states.

In some states, once you are done dealing with the state in which you were convicted, you may be facing consequences in your own state. A state that you do not live in and did not issue your driver’s license cannot take away or suspend your license, but your home state can. Once you get back home, you may face a license suspension or, in the case that you were already facing a suspended sentence, that sentence can be imposed.

How an Atlanta DUI Attorney Can Help

If you are convicted of driving under the influence in another state, it is important to consult with an experienced DUI attorney in your own state. A lawyer can assist you in determining which, if any, consequences you will be facing in your home state. A lawyer can also help you decide on the best way to lessen or fight those consequences.

If you have been arrested for driving under the influence in another state or in DeKalb County, reach out to our experienced team of attorneys. We understand the circumstances you may be facing and we can help you make the best decisions moving forward. Call our office today to schedule a free case evaluation and learn more about your legal rights. Don’t assume that you are free and clear because you were charged elsewhere. The truth is, you may not be.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn
+