An attorney can be a major expense for most people, but the consequences of entering the courtroom without any representation are usually far more costly, particularly in DUI cases. Remember, a DUI isn’t a one-and-done expense. The bills can keep coming for months—or even years—after the initial arrest.
Consider the costs associated with a typical DUI:
- Court fine and penalty assessment of $2,000 or more
- Costs associated with court-ordered DUI alcohol program ($500 – $1000)
- Possible interlock devices ($500 or more)
- Increased car insurance ($2,000 per year for 3 years)
- Payments to the DMV to reinstate your license
Not to mention, if your DUI caused injuries or severe damage—or if you’re a repeat offender—you could be facing lost wages if you’re tied up in jail or court. From the moment the red and blue lights start flashing, the tab is running. Without a DUI attorney, you’re probably looking at $7,000 to $10,000 by the time it’s all said and done. Of course, every situation is different, and you could end up owing even more, depending on your unique situation.
Unfortunately, DUIs don’t come with the convenience of comparison shopping consumers these days are used to. You can’t very well walk into a courtroom by yourself, price out your financial penalties, then contact attorneys to see which angle gets you the better deal.
So, how do you know which way to go?
Is It Worth It to Get a DUI Lawyer?
Let’s say your DUI attorney charges you $5,000 to take on your case. That seems like a substantial chunk of the $7,000 estimate mentioned above. However, the elements that make the rest of your DUI so expensive will likely be eliminated or reduced completely.
Here’s a look at two of the most common components of DUIs:
Court Fees and Fines
- Without an attorney, you’re probably looking at somewhere around $3,600 in court fines, costs, and penalty assessments.
- With an attorney, that cost may be reduced to around $1,600 or less.
Doing the math, your attorney’s already saved you $2,000 in our sample scenario.
Insurance Increases
- Without an attorney, your insurance increases over 3 years will probably be about $6,000.
- With an experienced attorney, your insurance may increase around $1,500 for the 3 years at worst case.
In this example, your DUI attorney saved you around $4,500 across the three to five years you’re dealing with the consequences of your DUI.
What Should You Consider Before Hiring a DUI Attorney?
- A DUI lawyer is definitely your best option to reduce charges if possible.
- Are you researching DUI consequences on behalf of your child? If you’re the parent of a person under 21 years of age who is facing DUI charges, a DUI lawyer can make a real difference in the outcome.
- Are you concerned how a DUI will impact your career? This is a justifiable concern for many people. A DUI lawyer can fight for you to keep your license—and for other reductions of charges and/or punishment —so the DUI has zero to minimal impact on your job or career opportunities.
A DUI charge feels like it will ruin your life, especially when all of the consequences begin to get handed down. You’ll be facing a lot of penalties that will come in a variety of forms for many months. Hiring a DUI lawyer is worth the cost; it can make a big, positive impact on the outcome of your case and the entire outlook of your future.
For more information, check out the infographic and information available from QuoteWizard regarding this topic.
Each situation is different, and every case is unique. If you’ve been arrested for a DUI in Los Angeles, reach out to us today to discuss your case.
