How does a DUI record affect my chances of being accepted into college? I’ve been caught drunk driving in Los Angeles, California when I was 17 but I’ve abided by the law ever since.

Stan

Los Angeles, California

Having a DUI record or being convicted of DUI will definitely have its impact on how prospective colleges or universities will assess your application. You shouldn’t lose hope though, since it really depends on the gravity of your offense (whether you were charged for misdemeanor or a felony offense) and of course, your willingness to be honest about it during your application or interview. The best way to handle this would be to make sure to disclose this information, explain your situation and make sure that they are aware that you have learned from this experience. Try to pre-empt possible questions about this and how you can answer them effectively and still be able to present yourself in a good light. It’s not just what you say but on how you say it as well.

There are also cases in Los Angeles, California where, with the help of good attorneys, minors who have been arrested for drunk driving have been allowed for expungement, thereby clearing their records. It also helps to show that since the time of your offense, you have been a good, law abiding citizen of the state of California. That being said one of the first things you would like to do is to consult a California DUI attorney that can provide their expertise in getting your record back on track. Note, however, that it may not be possible for all types of offenses to be cleared. Remember, your success in being accepted should come from you’re excellent academic accomplishments so make sure to focus on that during your interview.