A first-offense DUI misdemeanor in Rhode Island can be expunged, but only after a 10-year waiting period from the date you complete your sentence. This is longer than the standard 5-year misdemeanor waiting period because the legislature treats DUI as a public safety priority. If you have multiple DUI convictions or have been convicted of subsequent criminal offenses during the waiting period, you are not eligible. DUI expungement petitions face greater scrutiny than other misdemeanor petitions, and the Attorney General's office frequently objects to them. An experienced Rhode Island expungement lawyer significantly improves your chance of success.
