How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost?
Wondering what a DUI attorney typically costs? Here's a general overview of how fees usually work and what affects them.
DUI cases are usually billed differently than personal injury cases
Unlike personal injury attorneys who often work on contingency, DUI defense attorneys typically charge a flat fee or hourly rate paid upfront, since a DUI case doesn't generate a settlement to draw fees from.
What generally affects the fee
Whether it's a first or repeat offense, whether the case is likely to go to trial versus resolve through negotiation, the complexity of any evidentiary issues, and the specific court and jurisdiction can all affect what an attorney quotes.
Free consultations are common
Most DUI defense attorneys offer a free initial consultation to review your situation and provide a fee estimate before you commit to anything, so getting a specific number for your case generally costs nothing upfront.
Weighing cost against what's at stake
A DUI can carry costs well beyond attorney fees, including fines, increased insurance premiums, potential lost income, and interlock device costs. Many people find that comparing total potential costs, not just attorney fees alone, gives a clearer picture.
Questions to ask about cost specifically
Ask whether the quoted fee covers the entire case through resolution or just certain stages, whether court costs and fines are separate, and whether the fee changes if the case goes to trial.