If you’ve been charged with DUI in Boise, you’ll probably wonder about the expenses you should expect. Most people think that hiring a DUI lawyer is the leading financial concern after an arrest. However, this is just one of the expenses you should expect. However, it is still essential to know how much a DUI lawyer costs.
In this article, the DUI lawyers will walk you through the costs of hiring an attorney after a DUI arrest. You’ll also learn the costs associated with DUI cases and the fee structure for lawyers.
What Is a DUI?
DUI usually means driving under the influence, and there are DUI statutes in every state. These statutes help prevent drivers from operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of a substance that can impair motor skills. Any substance which could affect a person’s ability to use their car safely is part of the DUI statute.
Although alcohol is the most common substance, there are others that the police can include in a DUI charge. Some are cannabis, prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, and illicit drugs like heroin, cocaine, etc.
In addition, when you’re tested for intoxication during a DUI stop, the police will perform a field sobriety test. It involves several actions designed to test your balance and agility. The police could also use a chemical breath test known as a breathalyzer. It measures the concentration of alcohol in your body.
Factors That Affect Costs Associated With DUI Charges
Figuring out the exact amount a DUI charge will cost is difficult. Most people refer to DUI charges as ‘the $10,000 ride home’ because it reflects the national average costs of a DUI charge. However, many factors affect the expenses associated with driving under the influence.
Some of these factors include:
Fines:
Fines are the appropriate monetary punishment for breaking the law. It usually depends on the number of offenses you commit. Fines could be as low as $300 or as high as $1,000. However, you should note that first-time violations are usually less costly than repeated offenses. Additionally, the court might rule that you attend substance abuse classes, which raises new costs.
Insurance Costs and Penalties:
Motorists usually have to possess driver’s insurance. If you receive a DUI charge, your insurance might drop you entirely. Additionally, the insurance company might decide to raise your premium because you’re now more of a risk to insure.
DMV Fees:
The Department of Motor Vehicles might decide to suspend your driver’s license after a DUI arrest. It often comes with a reinstatement fee and the possibility of several other fees concerning driver’s vehicle registration.
Lawyer Fees:
In addition to these costs, you still need to pay your DUI attorney fee. These fees are what it costs you to have a lawyer represent you throughout the legal process. 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. It depends on the intricacy of your DUI case and several other factors we’ll be exploring.
Factors That Determine a DUI Attorney’s Fee
Attorney fees are worth it because it gives you access to a skilled and knowledgeable legal representation. However, many factors could affect how much it would cost you to hire a DUI lawyer. Below are the factors you should note.
Your Case Complexity
Some DUI cases are pretty straightforward. This is common for cases where your blood alcohol concentration is simply close to the legal limit or you have no record. As a result, lawyers usually have a higher chance of winning your case or negotiating a plea bargain.
However, in complicated cases where you have past convictions or your actions resulted in an accident, the costs are usually higher. This is because the attorney is aware that it will take more effort to get a favorable outcome for you. Therefore, such cases typically cost more.
Additional Expenses
Your DUI lawyer might charge you a lab fee to re-test your BAC. Additionally, costs might be involved when your lawyer needs to subpoena evidence. Unfortunately, there is no way to know if additional expenses are necessary to defend your case.
These additional fees would automatically add to the legal fees of your DUI lawyer. So, ensure you ask upfront about extra costs excluded from the legal expense.
Lawyer’s Experience Level
Expert lawyers charge more. Most people want an attorney with years of experience and a reputation for winning in courtrooms. However, these lawyers usually charge more, although the added cost will be worth it. Additionally, the more you pay a lawyer, the greater the chance they’ll be interested in the outcome of your case.
How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost?
As mentioned above, the fees vary depending on several factors. There are also different ways that DUI lawyers structure their fees. Although we cannot give you a standard rate because it varies based on these factors, we can provide you with a range.
A DUI attorney will usually determine your case based on the expected timeline, court appearances, and case complexity. If your case takes longer, your attorney fees will be higher than cases that you can conclude quickly.
A top-end lawyer will also cost you much more than a mid-level or junior attorney. You should strike a balance between your budget and your need for defense. The lawyer you hire should not leave you bankrupt in the end.
Typically, attorneys charge from $500 to $2000 for a plea. However, if the case goes to court, the rate usually ranges from $3,000 to $25,000, as mentioned earlier.
Contact a DUI Lawyer Today!
Although a DUI lawyer is usually costly, it is necessary. You must inquire about the fee structure when hiring one. This would help you determine which attorney best fits you and your case. But keep in mind that the benefit outweighs the price.
For example, an experienced DUI lawyer will file the necessary motions for your case. At Boise DUI Guy, we have years of experience handling DUI cases. In addition, we will represent you during court appearances and trials.
Our focus is on getting you a favorable outcome; that’s why we work hard to reduce your sentence to the minimum. In addition, we provide a free preliminary consultation so we can discuss your case and explore the available options. Call our office today to schedule a free case review with a criminal defense attorney.