Drunk Driving Defense, DUI Arrest - FAQs
14. How much does it cost to get a lawyer?
The cost of an attorney will differ much between the amount of experience, the reputation, and the location of their practice. Much as with the profession of doctors, it is usually true that the more experience and bigger the city, the higher the costs of the lawyer. A detail that can also affect the fees is the amount of time an attorney commits to each case. A more qualified attorney will accept fewer clients, and in turn give more attention to each case individually.
Fees can range from $500 to $15,000 or more, all depending on the details of the lawyer and the case. A general practitioner who is located in a smaller, less populated community might charge between $500 and $1000. For a general idea of costs, an experienced DUI lawyer with a good reputation will charge $5000 to $8000 if this is your first DUI offense. This fine does include the DMV license hearing as well. The overall fee can also vary by a few other factors:
- Expenses like independent blood analysis, service of subpoenas, expert witness fees, and other such evidence might be extra.
- Administrative license suspension procedures could also be included as extra fees.
- If the offense is simply a misdemeanor or if it is a felony can affect the charges.
- Does the fee include trials or appeals?
- If you have been allegedly convicted of previous crimes, the additional procedures involved in taking care of these charges may be additional costs.
The attorney could request a retainer in advance (which will be applied against hourly charges) or just charge a fixed fee, which includes all expenses. Either way, you can and should ask for a written agreement that will document all fees. It is very important that you follow all of the terms the lawyer requests of you before you make any decisions.
