How much does it cost to fight a DUI?

Question

I got a DUI, and I wasn't drunk. How do I fight this? I had had one drink, but the office said I was drunk and wouldn't listen to me.

Joshua Aldabbagh · Answer

The price range will vary dramatically from attorney to attorney. I would recommend getting a price from several different lawyers before choosing one, and make sure the price you are quoted is certain, flat fee.

Brian Wanerman · Answer

It depends on how many "battles" you want your attorney to "fight" and the difficulties of each "battle."  If, for instance, you want representation only at your arraignment, the cost should be fairly cheap.  It will cost a lot more if you want him to challenge evidence, file motions or take the case to trial.  Many attorneys also charge extra for fighting the automatic driver's license suspension by the DMV.  It also depends on your history.  It will probably cost less if this is your first offense than if you have previous DUI convictions.  And it depends on the facts.  The stronger the DA's evidence against you, the more it will cost to fight.
In your case you said you had one drink but the officer said you were "drunk."  If your blood did not test at an alcohol concentration of at least .08, then you cannot be charged with the "B count" in which impairment of your judgment is presumed.  But, you can still be convicted of the "A count" if the prosecution can prove you were impaired by putting on additional evidence. (e.g. erratic driving, speeding, stumbling, slurred speech, "failing" field sobriety "tests",etc.)
You should consult an attorney in your area who can give you advice tailored to your specific situation.

Anthony Lowenstein · Answer

It depends on several factors.

Paul J. Wallin · Answer

IF you are talking about legal fees, fees will range depending upon where your case is pending, if you have a prior criminal record, and the experience of the law firm. A general range is 1500 to 5000 up to trial. However, if you are convicted of a DUI the costs are much higher than that. There will be a fine and alcohol school and your car insurance will either be canceled or you will become assigned risk.

Jonathan Willett · Answer

Hello-  Expect to pay from 2000 to 9500 for a trial.  A plea bargain usually ranges from 1250 to 3000.  Depends upon the attorney.

Eric Schurman · Answer

Did you take a breath test?  There are many facts I'd need to know  before I can answer your question(s).

Jared Altman · Answer

To go all the way to trial and present a thorough defense could easily cost $10,000.00 or more.

Michael J. Breczinski · Answer

Get an attorney who fights these kind of cases.  Get an attorney who fights these type of cases.

Sean Walsh · Answer

Call me for a free consultation.

Maureen Baldwin · Answer

The cost of a private attorney depends on how complicated your case is, as well as going rates in your jurisdiction. DUIs are usually proved based upon test results a breathalyzer or a blood test. If your test result shows you were under the .08 minimum, the prosecution does not have much of a case. Other factors of course are whether you refused or did not take any tests, how your driving was, and whether there was an accident involved. You can only learn how much an attorney will cost by calling someone. Most criminal attorneys offer free 30 minute consultations and will quote you a price in their office, or even on the phone.

Susan Correia-Champa · Answer

It depends on the experience level of the attorney you hire.  Some may   charge $5,000.00 some may charge $10,000.00 and some may charge below   $5,000.00.  You will need to call an attorney and then make your decision.

Gregory Casale · Answer

The best way to fight this or any charge is to hire a good criminal defense lawyer. Fighting criminal charges is what they do everyday. I have personally fought hundreds of DUI charges. There are many defenses available that only an experienced attorney will be aware of. I would be happy to discuss your case with you. There is no fee for the consultation.

Michael Maltby · Answer

There must be some explanation.  It sounds like you need an attorney to sort this out. No prosecutor can proceed in a dui case without at least probable cause (more likely than not)that a crime occurred based on the evidence available for the judge to set bail conditions.  You need a lawyer to explain to you how you could be in this fix after one drink and to provide a defense for you based on the facts in your case and the application of his/her experience in these matters.  It is not uncommon for a police officer to form an opinion in good faith that, in the end, is flat wrong.  That's why we have defense attorneys and juries.

Christopher Jackson · Answer

Did you take a breath test?  Did you take any field sobriety tests?  You need to contact a lawyer directly and talk to them about the above issues and how much it will cost.

Jonathan Dichter · Answer

Every case is a little different.

Harley Gutin · Answer

You can retain this office with a small retainer and make monthly payments.  The total fee each attorney charges depends on each case.  Out fees include covering trials, pleas and formal reviews (contesting the license suspension within the first ten days with the Department of Motor Vehicles DMV).

Matthew Leyba · Answer

The first thing you should do is speak with an experienced and qualified DUI Attorney.  They will be able to spell out all the costs, and fees it would cost you to fight a DUI charge.  They would also be able to assess the strengths and weaknesses of your case and give you an idea of what your options might be.  Good luck

Jacob Braunstein · Answer

The cost will vary by attorney. Many criminal defense firms, including ours, will charge a flat fee to represent you.

Jeffery Cojocar · Answer

Retain counsel.  Feel free to call my office if in the metro Detroit area.

Cynthia Henley · Answer

The fees that lawyers charge vary from county to county and lawyer to lawyer. You should call 3 to 5 local lawyers and determine if they handle DWI cases (including ALR hearings.) You want someone who has been to trial on a DWI in the past 6 months which will mean that they actively represent on DWI cases. You should visit in person with at least 2 lawyers. You need to get on this immediately because the ALR hearing must be requested within 15 days of your arrest.

Stephen Freeborn · Answer

No offense, but almost every defendant I represent, tell s me the same thing.  You need to consult with an attorney and review the facts of your case. Legal fees, if the case goes to trial can be easily 6,000.00 or more. In addition there are other economic factors.  I tell clients that the economic implications of a first time DUI generally run about $12,000 - $15,000.00.  Talk with an attorney.

Matthew Murillo · Answer

Being drink is not required for a DUI. Having a BAC above the legal limit is. If you feel you have a case, you should consult with a couple of attorneys. Cost will vary by attorney.

Michael Morgan · Answer

It can vary but a ballpark figure is anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000.

Michael Palumbo · Answer

It depends on the quality of the lawyer, the venue you have been charged in, and the specific services you are looking for. We represent motorists charged in NY State with DWI and are happy to give a no obligation, free phone consultation.

Geoffrey MacLaren Yaryan · Answer

The cost will vary depending on where you are and the experience of the   attorney you retain.

Thomas Tomko · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry.  The cost of defending a case will depend on the facts and work needed to defend.  For example, a case that goes to trial is more expensive than a case which results in a plea.  I would need to know the facts of your case and get an idea of the defenses and procedure needed to present the defenses before being able to estimate the costs.  You may contact me for an appointment to more fully discuss your case.

Eric Chandler · Answer

It really depends on the circumstances.  In Omaha, NE, if it's your first DUI, there was not an accident, no one was injured, etc. etc.; you are likely looking at somewhere between $800-$1,100.  I would be a little concerned if anyone charged you any more or any less than that on normal facts.

Jared Austin · Answer

It depends. The cost of a DUI attorney can range from several hundred dollars to tens of thousands. The average price range is between $1,000 to $2,500. The price also depends on whether or not it has to go to trial and how many motions have to be made. A good DUI attorney is well worth the money because they can save you tons in terms of fines, costs, vehicle immobilization, higher insurance premiums, license points and sanctions, etc. 

Here's a good tip: I wouldn't trust a DUI lawyer for charges less than $1,000 because there is no way they can possibly put the proper amount of time into your case for that. If you run into an attorney who just charges a few hundred dollars, there's a reason. Probably because he' s desperate for clients. Seek out several attorneys before you make your decision.

William C. Gosnell · Answer

Hire a qualified criminal defense lawyer  $2500.00- is a ballpark figure.

James Edward Smith · Answer

It costs between $1,500 to $3,000 to fight a DUI.

Stephanie Hartung · Answer

The cost of fighting a DUI will depend on the lawyer you choose to represent you. DUI attorneys charge a flat rate for representation and that rate is based on the facts of the case, location, and your criminal history. You will find a wide range of prices. It is important that you find an experienced DUI attorney that listens to you and that you feel comfortable with. I offer free consultations and would be happy to discuss your case with you and give you a better idea of what type of fee you are looking at. I know how absolutely frustrating it can be to be accused with DUI, especially when you are not actually drunk. Best of luck.

Thomas Mueller · Answer

If I knew your blood alcohol level I could tell you if the case is worth  fighting. If the level is below .08 the D.A. will probably dismiss or offer a  reduced charge. To hire a lawyer to settle deal with the D.A. it will normally  be about $2500. To put on a Jury Trial, including hiring an expert witness,  about $7000.

Ardalon Fakhimi · Answer

You should consult with a DUI / Criminal Lawyer immediately as you only have 10 days from the date of your DUI to schedule your DMV hearing. The DMV hearing is important for many reasons, including preserving your driving privileges. The legal fees vary from lawyer to lawyer, and also depending on the facts of your case. If you would like to schedule a free telephonic consultation, please contact our office.

Michael Nichols · Answer

To put your best foot forward in court and to do it the right way you should expect to pay anywhere from $10,000.00 to $30,000.00 depending on the issues, the facts, where your case is located and various other factors.

Seth Bloom · Answer

The cost of fighting the DWI will consist of your attorney fees as well as various associated court costs. Also, in the event of a conviction, you will be responsible for paying for the various associated items such as alcohol counseling, interlock devices, etc.  These costs are all variable and generally are unique to your particular situation.  

The best thing you can do is hire the best DWI defense attorney you can afford. Your attorney will be able to advise you as far as how to proceed with everything else.  If you are seeking DWI defense in Louisiana, we invite you to contact our firm at the information on this page for a free case evaluation.

Theodore W. Robinson · Answer

While I don't and most other lawyers don't quote prices on the Internet, I can  tell you it would be best for you to retain the best lawyer you can find to  fight your DUI. The reason is because it can and will make a big difference who  you have representing you in such a case - especially if you're actually  innocent. Then it's even more important to win your case and that means getting  the best lawyer who has the most experience in such matters. Fees can be  charged in a number of different ways and the best lawyers usually cost the most  money. However, when your lawyer helps you win your case, you can then sue the  county and state for false arrest and a number of other things to recoup what  you've spent on your defense. That's usually done as a civil rights action.

Kevin O'Grady · Answer

The cost of hiring a private criminal defense attorney can vary depending on the exact charge, whether or not the person has priors and of course according to the attorney.  In Hawaii, a first time, simple DUI/OVUII, can possibly run anywhere from $1,500 on up, depending on what services you engage the attorney for.

Dennis Roberts · Answer

Varies from city to city. Probably in the neighborhood of $2000.

Jules N. Fiani · Answer

You need to hire a lawyer like myself that specializes in drunk driving cases. As one of Michigan's most experienced drunk driving defense lawyers, I recommend that you hire a lawyer like myself with great experience and reviews.

Leonard Harden · Answer

It depends on many factors, level of offense, chemical test, need for experts (toxicologist, chemist, fsts expert) experience of attorney and where you are located.

Contact a DWI defense lawyer in your jurisdiction who has the best reputation among others lawyers and cops. You should meet the lawyer and they should be able to give you a break down on costs.

Terry Nelson · Answer

Fight?  Meaning take it all the way to trial to prove your innocence at any cost?  Quite a bit.

Michael Lynch · Answer

There are many different options when hiring a lawyer.  Typically a  criminal defense attorney can be retained on an hourly basis or a set  fee basis.  The set fee can be for all appearances and representation up  to the point where trial is set, or it can be for all representation  including trial.  A lawyer can charge any reasonable fee.  How much a  lawyer charges depends on what type of case is pending.  More is charged  for a felony than a misdemeanor. A DUI could be charged as either a  felony or a misdemeanor.  In this county most set fees are for a period  up until trial, with a trial coming under a separate agreement.  A set  fee on a misdemeanor DUI for representation up to the point of trial  could be any amount, but typically $1,000 to 4,000.  A set fee on a  trial could cost anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000.  Some defendants agree  to a daily fee of $1,000 in an effort to same money if the trial is quick. I hope this helps.

Scott Hilderman · Answer

You need to hire a lawyer.  You will need to contact a lawyer and discuss his fees with him/her.  Typically, a quality DUI Defense in Montana will start at $2500.

Kevin Michael Smith · Answer

You will have two separate proceedings where you can fight: the DMV Per Se hearing and the Superior Court where the criminal charges will be processed.  You should fight at both, as you can save your license from suspension and your criminal record.  Look for an attorney experienced in DUI defense who will fight in both forums.  Don't hire someone who says "We'll just get you a program," referring to the Alcohol Education Program, which results in a dismissal but stays on your driving record 7 years.  Fight, fight, fight.  And then fight some more, because otherwise you are sure to lose.

Eric Rothstein · Answer

It depends on the facts, your past record and if you plan to go to trial. I am a former federal and State prosecutor and now handle criminal defense including DWI. Feel free to check out my web site and contact me.

Cotter Conway · Answer

It varies. It all depends on the facts of the case. Some charge fees as low as $1,500 but it could be much higher. Take advantage of a free consultation that most defense attorneys offer.

Hussein Karmali · Answer

This is certainly a matter that requires a consultation to determine costs of representation, since all DUI cases are different in facts and circumstances,

Jeff Yeh · Answer

You need to call an attorney who specializes in DUI and who will personally represent you from start to finish. Unfortunately, the way the system is set up, the Judge/prosecutor simply won't listen to your reasons/defenses when you go to court by yourself, unrepresented.

Seyyed Sharifi · Answer

Hire an attorney. DUI's are very legally and scientifically complex. Most criminal defense attorneys are not trained well enough to handle them. Get somebody that's had some training and defends them frequently.

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