Drunk Driving Defense, DUI Arrest - FAQs
14. What will retaining a DUI attorney cost me?
The total cost of an attorney will vary based on experience, reputation, and location of their practice. The price structure of experienced attorneys is similar to those of experienced doctors. A factor that affects the total cost is the time the attorney commits to your case.
Fees can range anywhere from $500 to $15,000 and sometimes more. It all depends on the qualifications of the lawyer and the details of the case. A general practitioner who can be under qualified may charge between $500 and $1000. For a first time offender, an experienced DUI lawyer will cost $5000 to $8000. The costs, however, can be altered in these ways:
- General expenses: such as independent blood analysis, service of subpoenas, expert witness fees, and other such evidence might be extra
- Any costs that come with the administrative license suspension procedures
- If the offense is a misdemeanor or felony can affect the charges
- Trials and appeals can include an extra charge.
- If you have been convicted of previous crimes, the additional procedures involved in taking care of any possible additional charges may be additional costs.
The attorney can request a retainer fee in advance, which will be applied against hourly charges, or charge a fixed fee, which includes all expenses. You should ask for a written agreement that documents all potential fees. It is very important that you fully understand how much it will cost you when you sign with an attorney.
