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.