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A DUI charge is a grave criminal offense and can label you as a high-risk driver for the rest of your life. If you are facing a DUI case, you will need to hire an experienced DUI lawyer, especially if you want to get your DUI case dismissed. While all attorneys are typically expensive, the average cost of DUI attorneys tends to be a bit more costly.
You may find yourself wondering just how much does a DUI lawyer cost? On top of court costs, DMV fees, penalty fees, DUI school, attorney’s fees, and a long list of other expenses, a DUI charge can be very pricey. You should find a DUI lawyer worth every penny you spend.
When facing DUI charges, hiring an experienced DUI attorney is imperative.
While the average cost of a DUI attorney varies greatly depending on your location, hiring a good DUI lawyer could easily be more expensive. This can also depend on the severity of your DUI charges.
Many DUI lawyers will offer a free case evaluation. This will allow you to discuss your DUI case and your criminal record, while the DUI lawyer can give you a deeper insight into their attorney fees, whether it is a flat fee structure, an hourly rate, and other costs. It is also essential to learn if your lawyer has experience in criminal defense or personal injury cases.
The Team at Louis J. Goodman Is Just One Call Away
They can also discuss their outlook on the DUI case. Meaning that they can provide their opinion on whether or not they can get the case dismissed, or if you will face any jail time, community service, or possibly have to attend traffic school.
The right lawyer will do their best to keep you out of jail, make sure that you avoid a DUI conviction or felony charges, you get to keep your driver’s license and avoid a costly trial. The ultimate goal of your lawyer is to have your case dismissed.
But What Does a DUI Attorney Cost?
National Averages
If you look at the national average cost of DUI attorneys, you can expect to spend between $5,000 and $15,000 for a relatively easy and straightforward DUI case dismissed or settled out of court, especially if this is your first offense.
However, for a more complex DUI case, the average cost for a DUI attorney could skyrocket to fee structures of nearly $20,000. These higher-priced DUI cases usually consist of multiple court appearances, longer jail time, and higher court fees.
Accepting A Plea Deal
Most DUI lawyers’ fees are based on whether or not you accept a plea or take your case to trial. When accepting a plea, you can expect to pay a flat fee of as little as $700. When taking your case to trial, you can expect costs to rise to nearly $5,000, making the average price of a DUI attorney around $1,900.
Fees Vary By State
When hiring legal representation for your DUI case, remember that the DUI lawyer cost varies depending on your state.
Start by searching the internet using your valid zip code. Then find a DUI attorney that will offer a free consultation. This will allow you to speak to a few different DUI attorneys to discuss your case, the probability of a DUI conviction, how much each DUI lawyer can cost, and other mitigating factors.
What Should You Discuss During Your Free Consultation?
Once you have found a DUI lawyer who fits your case best, it is time to discuss the cost of a DUI. When hiring a DUI lawyer, the most critical question is, how much does a DUI case cost? Will your DUI lawyer cost a flat rate or an hourly rate? Will their total cost be less if this is your first offense? Will there be additional costs that haven’t been disclosed?
Public Defenders
If the cost of a DUI is too staggering and you cannot afford to hire a DUI lawyer, you could potentially qualify for assignment to a public defender. Public defenders are lawyers employed at public expense for criminal charges to represent a defendant who cannot afford legal assistance.
Being poor should not exclude an individual from receiving adequate public defense when facing criminal charges. That’s why public defenders are a valuable asset that can help you with your felony DUI case without the high price tag of most DUI lawyers. To qualify for a public defender, you must meet specific income requirements that are outlined by your state.
Associated Fines
In addition to hiring a high-dollar DUI lawyer, keep in mind that there are plenty of additional fees in relation to a DUI. Most attorneys will explain these during your free consultation.
Arizona, Utah, Georgia, Alaska, and California are the most expensive states to catch a DUI charge. The states that have the cheapest fines for DUI penalties are South Dakota, Mississippi, Ohio, Vermont, & Missouri.
Impound Fee
You can also expect to be charged additional penalties, such as impound fees. Your car may have been impounded by a police officer at the time of your arrest. If so, this means that your vehicle was towed away to an impound lot. In order to retrieve your vehicle, you will have to pay a fee to the lot. These fees vary by jurisdiction and may change depending on the circumstances surrounding the car’s removal.
Reinstatement Fee
This fee can pertain to both your insurance company and your driver’s license. If you are charged with a DUI, you may be penalized by getting your driver’s license revoked or your insurance policy canceled. In order to reinstate either of these, you will have to pay areinstatement fee. These fees vary from state to state and depend on why your license or insurance was canceled.
Drivers License Reinstatement
If you have been charged with a DUI, your driver’s license may be revoked. In order to get your driving privileges back, you will have to complete a series of steps to satisfy your state’s legal requirements.
Some of these steps include paying fines, taking defensive driving courses, and submitting paperwork to the proper authorities. In most states, DUI convictions result in both administrative and criminal suspension. You will need to wait until both of these suspensions are over until you can regain your driving privileges.
Some of the steps required by your state to regain driving privileges after your DUI include, but are not limited to:
- Submitting a certificate of completion from a drug and alcohol education program during your suspension period
- Paying the fees determined by your state’s government as well as any other administrative fees that may have been charged
- Get an SR-22 from your auto insurance company
Some states will allow you to complete many of these steps online, such as submitting documents via email and paying fees through a secured payment portal. It could take up to 21 days to process your payments and paperwork, clearing your name and allowing you the use of motor vehicles again.
When it comes to the cost of reinstatement fees, each state has its own regulations and fee structure that determine what the cost will be to get your license back. In most states, the reinstatement fees are cumulative, which means that if you have a revocation for multiple offenses, the total amount of your fines will be all of the offense fees added together.
If your license has been suspended multiple times, this could also affect the amount of your reinstatement fee.
Insurance Policy Reinstatement
In most states, after receiving a DUI, you are required to file a Financial Responsibility Insurance Certificate, more commonly known as an SR-22. You will be required to hold this certificate for a minimum of two years in most states.
This form is also going to be required to regain access to your driving privileges after an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) or a criminal suspension.
The cost of an SR-22 is usually significantly more expensive than regular car insurance, especially in states like Texas, which has a long history of being the strictest of states when it comes to DUI convictions. The average cost of minimal coverage SR-22 insurance after a DUI is an estimated $988 per year, compared to the annual cost of $643 without an SR-22.
Additional Miscellaneous Costs
Defensive Driving
After your conviction, you may be court-ordered to complete a defensive driving class. In order to be eligible to regain your driving privileges, you must complete the entire course.
Sometimes, although not required, judges will still sentence you to complete defensive driving in an effort to reduce your DUI to a lesser charge and even reduce your fines, especially if this is a first-time offense. Most states offer you the option to take your entire course online. If online classes are not available in your state, you will be required to take the course in person.
The specified cost of a defensive driver’s course can vary depending on your location. However, the national average ranges from approximately $15 to $100.
Ignition Interlock Device
Judges can also court order you to install an instrument on your vehicle called an Ignition Interlock Device. This is a breathalyzer that must be installed in your car by local professionals in an effort to detect alcohol in your system.
The ignition interlock device requires you to blow into the mouthpiece before turning on your vehicle or to continue operating it. The cost to install this device as well as maintain it is your responsibility for the duration of time it is installed. A state-certified installer is required to install the breathalyzer, and you are responsible for paying the installation fee directly to them.
The monthly leasing fee will be paid to the Interlock System Manager. This fee covers the cost of monthly maintenance, state-required reporting, camera and GPS management, or any additional—technology .required by your state.
Installation and leasing fees vary by state, but the average cost to install an ignition interlock device is between $70 and $150. The monthly leasing fee ranges from $60 to $90. While this device is typically the most inexpensive cost associated with a DUI, assistance is available in most states to those who cannot afford it.
Is The Charge Worth The Cost?
So many high-dollar expenses come along with DUI charges, and hiring a DUI lawyer is undoubtedly the most expensive. In addition to attorney’s fees, court costs, and a long list of other related costs, before you take a drink, you might want to ask yourself if it’s really worth it.
Making sure you have a designated driver is always the safest (and cheapest) option, of course. But if you do happen to find yourself behind the wheel after a few drinks, ask yourself if you can afford a DUI conviction before you turn the keys.
If you don’t, having a good DUI lawyer on your side is imperative. Call the experienced team at Louis J. Goodman for a free consultation and get an excellent defense for your case that you can afford.
FAQs
What does a DUI cost in Idaho? ›
IDAHO DUI PENALTIES
A person found guilty of DUI for the first time will face a fine of at least $500 but no more than $1,000 and a jail sentence of no more than six months.
And while there is no set price for a DUI lawyer, the national average runs between $1,500 and $3,000. It's also worth noting that a lawyer typically costs less if you are facing a misdemeanor DUI charge instead of a felony DUI charge.
What is the average cost of a DUI in Virginia? ›According to Virginia State Code Section 18.2-270, you can face up to 12 months in jail and a fine of $250 to $2,500, for a first conviction, and up to one to five years in prison and a fine of at least $1,000, if convicted of involuntary manslaughter or maiming as a result of driving under the influence.
What is the average cost of a DUI in Georgia? ›Legal Fees: $2,000- $25,000. Fines: $300 – $5000. These base fines vary depending on the nature of your offense and any prior DUI's. These base fines do not include statutory court costs which can increase the base fine by 50% or more.
How much is a DUI lawyer in Idaho? ›Lawyer Fees:
Typically, attorneys charge from $500 to $2000 for a plea. However, a DUI case that goes to court can last as long as 6-12 months. In such a case, the rate could be as high as $3000-$25,000.
Typically, attorneys can charge you anywhere between $500 and $2,000 for a plea. If your case goes to a trial, the range of rates varies from $3,000 to $25,000. The average attorney fee in a DUI case is $1,000.
How do I get a DWI dismissed in MN? ›There are two ways you could see your case dismissed if you have been charged with a DWI in Minnesota. First, the prosecutor could opt to dismiss your case before it ever goes to trial. Second, the court could grant your motion to dismiss the case based on your defense strategy.
Can a DWI be reduced in MN? ›As part of your drunk driving defense, your Minnesota DWI attorneys will attempt to get the charges dismissed, reduced, or acquitted. It may be possible to negotiate a brief sentence, a reduction of fines, and a license which allows you to drive to and from work.
How do I get a free lawyer in Minnesota? ›LawHelpMN.org: Offers a statewide online directory to search for free or lower-cost civil legal services based on your location and/or legal issue. You can choose the LawHelpMN Guide to go through a short interview and get legal information and referrals or search providers and clinics directly.
What is the average cost of a lawyer for a DUI plea in Virginia? ›Typical DUIs: $1000 – $2000. Felony DUI (3rd offense): $2500+ Bond Hearings: up to $1000. Typical Misdemeanor Charge: $750-$1500.
How many years does a DUI stay on your record in Virginia? ›
If you are arrested and convicted of a DUI in Virginia, the DUI will stay on your criminal record forever, as a DUI conviction is a criminal offense. This means that law officers can see this record anytime they pull you over on the roads.
Can you beat a DUI in Virginia? ›Generally speaking, there are three common ways to beat DUI charges. One is to challenge the validity of the stop. The second is to challenge the evidence for the arrest. The third is to challenge the results of the breath test machine.
How long does a DUI case take in Georgia? ›There really is no typical time for a DUI. Every case is different. If it is one that doesn't require motions to suppress or other complicated litigation, you should be able to have your DUI resolved anywhere from three to six months.
Do you lose your license immediately after a DUI in Georgia? ›For a first DUI conviction in Georgia, your license will be confiscated by the court and surrendered to the local Department of Driver Services office. You will immediately lose your right to drive unless you are eligible by submitting to the implied consent test.
How likely is jail time for first DUI Georgia? ›Even though a misdemeanor is not a serious as a felony charge, the punishment for a DUI can have a significant impact on your life. First DUI punishments in Georgia can include: Fines between $300-$1,000. 1-10 days in jail.
When should I get a DUI lawyer? ›You Need an Attorney to Go to Trial
And judges typically have little patience for self-represented defendants who don't know the rules of court. The bottom line is you don't want to try a DUI case on your own—if you're going to trial, you should have an attorney.
A DUI in Idaho can affect insurance for up to 10 years, depending on how far back the insurance company checks a driver's record. Most insurers look at the past 3-5 years on a driver's motor vehicle record when calculating premiums, but some look even further for major violations like DUI.
Why should I get a DUI attorney? ›A DUI Attorney will be able to help you navigating a DUI conviction's requirements, and help you better understand the process. Issues with court dates, SS-22 forms, insurance premiums, your driver's license and more. All might be involved when facing a DUI conviction.
Will I go to jail on a first DUI Idaho? ›Idaho DUI Penalties - Jail time
There is no minimum jail time for those receiving a first-time DUI in Idaho. Therefore, those convicted could face no jail time at all. However, the state reserves the right to impose a six-month jail sentence.
Penalties for Drunk Driving in Idaho. A first-time offender faces up to six months in jail and is subject to pay a fine of up to $1,000. The driver's license suspension period is 30 days.
Can you get a DUI off your record in Idaho? ›
REMOVING A DUI CONVICTION
Expungement is a legal term that simply refers to the obliteration or destruction of past criminal records. In Idaho, you can have your case dismissed based on Idaho Code 19-2604; be sure to hire an expungement Boise lawyer to assist with the forms and processing.
Legal Limit — 0.08
The consequences for driving impaired will vary for each DWI offender, but a typical penalty for a first-time offender is potential jail time and loss of license for a minimum of 30 days up to a year.
First-time DWI offenders with a 0.16 and above alcohol-concentration level and second-time DWI offenders will be required to use ignition interlock or not have driving privileges ranging from one to two years — depending on offense level.
Is your license revoked immediately after a DWI in Minnesota? ›In Minnesota, you do not lose your driver's license immediately following a DWI arrest. However, the state can begin the process of revoking your driving privileges right away—long before you are ever convicted of a crime.
What is the average cost of a DWI in Minnesota? ›The charges for this can vary but could cost anywhere from $100-$300. Criminal charge: You will face a $1,000 fine for a first-offense DWI.
How do you beat a DUI in Minnesota? ›- Improper Search and Seizure. You have the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. ...
- Implied Consent Issues. ...
- Lack of Consent or Warrant. ...
- Unreliable Testing.
How much do car insurance premiums increase in Minnesota after a DUI? In Minnesota, rates often climb by roughly 99% after a DUI. The average yearly cost of full coverage auto insurance in the state is $1,165. Following a DUI conviction, you can expect the rate to increase to around $2,319 per year.
What is it when a lawyer does a case for free? ›Pro bono work is legal advice or representation provided free of charge by legal professionals in the public interest. This can be to individuals, charities or community groups who cannot afford to pay for legal help and cannot get legal aid or any other means of funding.
What is a pro bono lawyer? ›The term pro bono is used primarily in the legal profession. Lawyers who serve the public interest by providing free legal services to those in need do so on a pro bono basis. The provider is thought to be imparting a benefit for the greater good, instead of working for profit.
How do you call a lawyer who works for free? ›What is a pro bono program? Pro bono programs help low-income people find volunteer lawyers who are willing to handle their cases for free.
Do you lose your license immediately after a DUI in Idaho? ›
IDAHO DUI LICENSE SUSPENSION
Following an arrest, you will have a mere 7 days to act. You need to schedule this DMV hearing within 7 days of the arrest; if you don't, your license will be automatically suspended.
When ten years have passed since your previous DUI, the state of Idaho will delete the citation from your record. You will be penalized as a first-time offender if you commit a new DUI crime.
What is considered an excessive DUI in Idaho? ›If you are arrested for a DUI and your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is . 20 or higher you will be charged with an Excessive DUI in Idaho - rather than a standard DUI. This is an enhanced criminal charge and, if convicted, can lead to severe and often life changing penalties.
Can you defer a DUI in Idaho? ›Idaho has its own version of deferring sentencing in DUI cases. It's known as withholding judgment. If somebody has a DUI record, it can get in the way of educational, job and housing opportunities.
How much is a DUI bail in Idaho? ›Bail Bond Amount
In most DUI cases, the bail is set at $500. You can pay the amount out of your pocket and get out. The good thing about the bail bond is that you will get the entire amount back at the end of your case.
Driver's License Suspension and Ignition Interlocks
Generally, a first-time DUI will result in a 30-day license suspension in Idaho. After the initial 30-day suspension, the court will review the case and order an additional 60 to 180-day suspension.
If you refuse the field sobriety test or breathalyzer, you'll be facing some serious charges. You will face a fine of $250 and your driver's license will be suspended for one (1) year. You'll face these consequences whether you're eventually convicted of DUI or not.
Is a DUI a felony in Idaho? ›In Idaho a third or subsequent DUI conviction is a felony DUI. Felony DUI offenses create more complications than misdemeanor DUI offenses, including stiffer penalties and lifelong problems gaining employment (many employers have policies against hiring felons), obtaining insurance, and exercising some civil liberties.
Can a passenger drink in a car in Idaho? ›(2) No person in a motor vehicle, while the vehicle is on a public highway or the right-of-way of a public highway may drink or possess any open beverage containing alcoholic liquor, as defined in section 23-105, Idaho Code, beer as defined in section 23-1001, Idaho Code, or wine as defined in section 23-1303, Idaho ...
How long is probation for DUI in Idaho? ›Probation: The court will most likely impose a 1 year probation period. Alcohol evaulation: You will have to complete an DUI education class. Test refusal: 2 year suspension and a $250 fine for second refusal. You may be eligible for a resitrcted license with the installation of an ignition interlock.
Can I get my record expunged in Idaho? ›
Idaho offers expungement of adult criminal records. Expungement deletes your criminal record and restores you to the status you had before the offense. The state removes the record from all official sources, with one exception. Idaho keeps a confidential file of expunged records that only judges may see.
What is the difference between a DUI and a DWI in Idaho? ›Both DUI and DWI refer to the illegal act of driving a vehicle while impaired by alcohol and/or drugs. The chief difference lies in what the letters mean. DUI designates driving under the influence, while DWI refers to driving while intoxicated.
What happens after 3rd DUI in Idaho? ›The penalty for a third DUI conviction
30 days mandatory jail time with a maximum term of 10 years. A fine of up to $5,000. A mandatory one-year license suspension with a maximum of five years (to start when you're released from confinement) Mandatory ignition interlock for at least one year.