The internet and electronic record keeping has led to the end of a time when what “happened in Vegas, stayed in Vegas.” Similarly, criminal convictions from a distant state may no longer be ignored after a person moves away from that state. As law enforcement, court clerk’s offices, and agencies responsible for drivers licenses continue to store and share information electronically, a person’s criminal history is increasingly likely to follow him or her across state lines.
For example, a prior DUI conviction from another state may significantly increase potential penalties and the outcome of a Tennessee DUI case, just as would a prior Tennessee DUI conviction. State and federal agencies are increasingly accurate and reliable in their effort to report crimes to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). By accessing the NCIC, any state or federal prosecutor may quickly review an individual’s entire criminal history, including charges that have been dismissed.
Prior charges and convictions may negatively impact pending DUI litigation. As a result, it is imperative that anyone facing criminal charges fully disclose these charges to their Tennessee Defense Attorney, even if the prior charges have been dismissed and expunged.
Please contact our office to find out more about convictions in other states and how to address them as part of a DUI defense strategy. You may contact our Tennessee DUI defense lawyers, Steve and Sara by calling (865) 249-7200.
