When facing a legal issue like public intoxication, it’s natural to wonder how it might affect your future. For those in Auburn and Opelika, Alabama, understanding whether public intoxication appears on a background check is crucial, especially when applying for jobs, housing, or other opportunities. At Walton Law Firm, P.C., we have over 35+ years in defending students and others who have been charged with Public Intoxication and are here to provide clarity on this common concern.

Public Intoxication in Alabama: What You Need to Know

Under Alabama Code §13A-11-10, public intoxication is a Class C misdemeanor, meaning it’s a minor criminal offense. However, a conviction can still carry consequences, including fines and potential jail time. More importantly, it could impact your record and appear in background checks conducted by employers, landlords, or others.

Will a Public Intoxication Charge Show Up on a Background Check?

The short answer is yes. A public intoxication arrest or conviction can appear on your record, depending on the type of background check and the circumstances of the case. Here’s how:

  1. Criminal Background Checks:
    Any conviction for public intoxication will likely show up in a standard criminal background check. These are commonly used by employers, rental agencies, and licensing boards.
  2. Arrest Records:
    Even if you were arrested but not convicted, the record of your arrest may still appear in some background checks. This is especially true for checks conducted by law enforcement agencies or government bodies.
  3. Expungement Options:
    Alabama allows certain misdemeanor offenses to be expunged from your record under specific conditions. If your public intoxication charge was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or you completed a pretrial diversion program, you might qualify to have the charge removed from your record.

Ready to discuss your case? Contact Top Criminal Defense Attorney, Trip Walton and his team of top criminal defense lawyers at Walton Law Firm, for your free* legal consultation today.

How Could This Impact You?

Even though public intoxication is a misdemeanor, it can still have long-term effects on your life, especially if it appears on a background check. This can affect:

  • Employment: Many employers in Auburn and Opelika conduct background checks, and a criminal charge—even a minor one—could affect your chances of being hired.
  • Housing: Landlords may view a public intoxication charge as a red flag when evaluating rental applications.
  • Professional Licensing: Certain professions or certifications require clean records, and a misdemeanor can complicate the process.

Steps to Protect Your Future

If you’re worried about a public intoxication charge impacting your background check, there are ways to minimize its effects:

  1. Review Your Record: Obtain your criminal record to understand what’s visible to others.
  2. Explore Expungement: If you’re eligible, expungement can help erase the charge from most background checks.
  3. Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney: An experienced Auburn criminal defense attorney or Opelika defense lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, fight your charges, or work toward expungement.

How Walton Law Firm, P.C. Can Help

At Walton Law Firm, P.C., we understand the impact that even a minor offense can have on your future. As trusted criminal defense attorneys in Auburn and Opelika, we’re dedicated to helping you protect your record and move forward with confidence. Whether you’re dealing with a public intoxication charge or looking to expunge your record, we have the experience and knowledge to guide you every step of the way.

 

 

portions of this post were written with the assistance of ChatGPT

Were you or a loved one recently charged with a crime and need to speak to an experienced member of our criminal defense legal team? Call the offices of Walton Law Firm today at 334-321-3000