One of the first questions out of every client’s mouth is, “What is this DUI arrest going to cost me.”  A DUI conviction can be very expensive, depending on the facts of your case.  Below is a break down of the typical costs of a first DUI.

Costs of a standard 1st DUI with no accident is estimated at $10,000 before increased insurance costs.  This is how that estimate breaks down and can be variable for each case:

Court fines and penalties  – approx. $2500 (includes restitution fund)

3 – 6 month DUI class (depending on BAC) –  $700 – $2000

SCRAM device (if ordered) – $40/day (typically for 6 months in high BAC cases)

Work project or home detention $80 – $120 to sign up

(alternate to in-custody time)  $40 – $80/day (depends on the case: min 2 days; max 6 months)

Ignition Interlock Device (IID) – $100/month (minimum 5months is standard)

Attorney fees  – $2000 – $5000

DMV license reissue fee  –  $135

Towing/impound fees  – $1000 – $2000

(depending on if they choose to keep the vehicle for 30 days)

Increased automobile insurance costs  –  Variable; often rates increase by 33-60% or more per year for the 10 years that the points stay on your record

Bail – $500-$5000  (required in some local counties)

Other consequences:

  • No jail time typical on 1st DUI
  • 6-month driver’s license suspension (As of 2019, you are entitled to a restricted license as soon as the DMV takes action.)
  • A DUI shows as a misdemeanor conviction on your record. (The conviction can be expunged after a few years, but the points remain on your DMV record for 10 years.)
  • If you are under 21 years of age, any measurable amount of alcohol in your system results in a one-year license suspension, with no restricted license available*

*Driver’s under 21 establishing a “critical need” for a restricted license can go through a separate application process that is subject to full DMV discretion.

If you have been arrested for a DUI, or for any crime, do not hesitate to reach to contact us at any time.