Many of those charged with a DUI or similar traffic violation know about some of the most common legal consequences for these kinds of convictions. They may know about license suspension and other issues. But there are other long-term consequences of DUI/DWI prosecution that can take many years to go away, and can be problematic for drivers long after they have worked through many other hardships around a DUI defense.
One issue that doesn’t get a whole lot of attention is the idea of international travel, specifically, travel across the North American continent. Part of this is because there are only two borders that Americans would routinely cross. One is into Mexico, where very lax restrictions apply (although it can be exceedingly difficult to get back across the border to the north) – the other is the U.S./Canadian border.
Entering Canada with DUI
Many Americans don’t really understand the stringent processes that Canadian officials enforce at the Canada border, such as the requirement for current passports or other documentation.
In particular, many don’t know about how Americans can be denied entry based on an old DUI conviction.
The fact is that Canadian officials do look carefully at American driver histories when processing traffic across the Canada border. That can be troublesome for those who have DUIs or other black marks on their driving records.
Temporary Residential Permits
One way that drivers with DUI convictions can get access to Canada is to apply for a kind of one-time or short-term provision called a Temporary Residential Permit. If successful, these can be applied to multiple visits, but the key here is that the applicant needs a strong reason to visit. A Temporary Residential Permit won’t often work just for a vacation or sightseeing trip, which is why many Americans want to visit Canada in the first place.
Criminal Rehabilitation Applications
There’s also the option of applying to have Canadian governments wipe the slate clean in terms of a DUI conviction. This is a more comprehensive solution, but it has various eligibility acquirements, including the amount of time that has to pass before a driver with DUI can petition for it. Then there is a general timeframe of 10 years, after which Canadian officials may automatically forgive a DUI. However, it’s important to note that many of these processes have specific appeals procedures that, while more or less consistent, can also be determined at least partially on a case-by-case basis.
Helping Local NC DUI Defendants
Getting the best qualified Raleigh DUI attorney will help a driver defend himself or herself against excessive penalties and punishment with DUI/DWI charges. These professionals will advise defendants on not just the immediate consequences of the case, but the long-term effects, and how to deal with some of the more obscure restrictions, such as Canadian border crossings.
NC residents dealing with DUI or DWI charges can call Hiltzheimer Law Office, PLLC. We have a track record of helping those charged with these sorts of violations to protect themselves from unfair or excessive prosecution. Call (919) 899-9405 or contact us online for a free consultation and information from a trusted local attorney when you need it the most.
