The Average Cost of a DUI Attorney
There are various elements that affect the costs charged by a DUI attorney, but the complexity of the case and how you want it addressed are the most important.
Attorney Fees for DUI
How Much Does a DUI Attorney Charge?
To handle a DUI case in the quickest and most convenient manner possible, you will require the assistance of a lawyer. DUI attorney fees are mostly influenced by two factors: the sort of attorney hired and the result sought.
You have the option of hiring a public defender or a private attorney when it comes to hiring a DUI attorney. You may also represent yourself in court, but this is not recommended unless you are an attorney.
For comparison, the typical cost of a DUI attorney, the cost of self-representation, and other DUI-related fees are as follows:
Public Defenders
Total average cost – $5,600
Fees for attorneys – $800
$4,800 in penalties and other expenses
Average rise in insurance premiums – $2,500 over three years
Average time required for resolution – 7 months
Private attorneys
Total average cost – $6,600
$2,400 in attorney fees
$4,200 in penalties and other fees
Average increase in insurance premiums – $1,900 over three years
Average time required for resolution – 7 months
Self-representation
Total average cost – $5,800
Average rise in insurance premiums – $3,000 over three years
Average time required for resolution – six months
Self-representation can save you approximately $800 in attorney fees. However, DUI defendants without counsel have a high conviction rate, which is typically due to a lack of knowledge of the law. If convicted, you will be required to pay the full amount of the fines. Additionally, the average rise in your insurance premium will be larger as a result of your high risk status.
If you retain the services of a lawyer, he or she will advise you on how to proceed correctly with your case. If your defense is excellent, you may even be acquitted. Additionally, your attorney may advise you on plea bargaining and assist you in negotiating a deal.
Bear in mind that entering into a DUI plea deal does not guarantee that the charges against you will be dismissed. It will just be substituted for a less severe penalty.
Resolution of Cases
In terms of case settlement, the average cost of a DUI lawyer is between $750 and $1,500 to negotiate a plea deal. On the other side, if you wish to contest the matter and proceed to trial, you need budget between $2,500 and $25,000.
Penalties
Penalties and associated fines for first-time DUI offenders can total $3,600. This amount increases to $4,000 for a second offense. Fines and other costs associated with third and fourth infractions can total up to $18,000. Bear in mind that these are only applicable to fines and other state-mandated expenses.
Cost Considerations for a DUI Attorney
Choosing a DUI attorney is more than simply deciding between a private and a public counsel. Additionally, cost considerations must be made, particularly if you are on a budget. Understanding these aspects might also assist you in getting the most from your lawyer.
Billing
DUI attorneys may charge an hourly rate or a flat fee. If you employ a lawyer on an hourly basis, you will also be required to pay a retainer fee.
Generally, attorneys who bill hourly divide their fee into portions. Some will divide their hour into 15- or six-minute halves. Simply keep in mind that little per-minute increases will save you money in the long run. Hourly costs may be advantageous if your case is handled fast, but they will cost you more if it is not.
On the other hand, flat charges include all fees associated with the case’s conclusion. The majority of lawyers actually prefer this method of payment because they receive the entire sum up front.
However, most attorneys do not offer refunds if you change counsel over the course of your case’s prosecution. With flat charges, overpayment is also a possibility, particularly if the matter is resolved swiftly. However, given that the majority of DUI cases are resolved within six to seven months, a flat cost may save you more money in the long term.
Whether your lawyer charges on an hourly or fixed-fee basis, keep in mind that lawyers at large firms typically charge more than those at smaller law firms.
Lawyer’s level of experience
The amount charged by a lawyer is also determined by his or her level of experience. Veteran DUI attorneys will charge a higher fee than rookie attorneys. Lawyers with a high success rate, whether in obtaining an acquittal or a moderate sentence, also charge a higher fee.
On the flipside, popular lawyers frequently have multiple clients concurrently. If your attorney is overburdened with cases, he or she may be unable to devote their full attention to your case. The basic conclusion is that a good DUI attorney will cost more, but your case will have a better chance of success.
Conclusion
The issue with DUI charges is that they are costly. You will have to pay regardless of whether you are acquitted or guilty. Additionally, because you’re already spending money, it’s prudent to employ the best DUI attorney you can afford.