How much does a DUI lawyer cost in Georgia?
How long is a piece of string? An age-old expression for a question that has no measurable answer. Such is the case with the cost of a DUI conviction. It really is impossible to put a number to it. There are just too many variables. There are monetary and non-monetary costs, both having direct and consequential components.
Today we will be looking on the cost of the DUI lawyer that will take our case on and get us the best possible outcome. We will look at all the cost elements of appearing in court with representation. We will, however, also have a look at the long list of other costs outside the actual DUI defense case. This will give us a more complete picture of the potentially catastrophic consequences of a DUI.
Counting costs
So, let’s start with the direct costs related to the attorney and the court case. We’re assuming that, if you’re reading this, you have not had a DUI before. We’ll look at typical costs for a first offense. Bear in mind that, for a second and subsequent offenses, the penalties ramp up quite sharply. By the fourth offense, you’re looking at a felony charge and the state will start pulling out the big guns.
Bail
Very few people escape from a DUI arrest without the prospect of jail time. And let’s face it, you really don’t want to spend any time at all in a jail. So, you’re definitely looking at putting up bail. That will set you back anything from $150 to around $2,500. Generally, though, you do get this money back eventually. As long as you honor all your court appearances and comply with all court procedures and orders.
Towing and pound fees
Unless you happen to have a passenger in the car that is sober enough to drive your car home, it’s probably going to be towed to the local pound. Towing charges will depend on the distance to the pound. Typically, the charges vary from $50 to $200. Impound fees are charged per day. If you get stuck in jail you may rack up quite a bill. Even worse, in some cases the car may be auctioned if it is not recovered within a certain time.
Attorney fees
You will have legal representation. You’d be foolish not to. This is also a cost that can vary greatly. Once you consult an attorney and you have laid out all the facts, they should be able to make a fairly accurate assessment of the case and be able to quote you a figure. Most attorneys will work on a flat fee. An experienced DUI defense attorney has done this countless times. They will know what you’re up against. Reasonable fees will run in the range of $1,500 to $5,000.
Court imposed fines and fees
Most DUI offenders will receive a fine. The fine will depend on the severity of the charges. For instance, a high BAC will lead to a much higher fine. In addition, there may be various other charges levied by the court. Among others, you may be expected to pay fees for jail time, sentencing and probation. The fine varies between $300 and $1,000. The other costs levied by the court would usually tally up to at least $100. In some cases, they may go as high as $2,500.
Post case compliance costs
Once your case has concluded, you may have a whole menu of requirements that you need to meet.
- Follow up tests. While you’re out on bail you may be required to do random alcohol or drug tests. These tests are, obviously, at your expense. The bottom line is at least $100.
- Community Service supervision costs. You will certainly be sentenced to some community service. You may have to pay a supervision fee for this. This is usually a nominal fee but it’s just another drop that helps fill the bucket. Budget for $100.
- Rehabilitation and safety courses. It’s quite common, nowadays, for the courts to impose rehabilitation and/or education courses. Traffic school will probably cost around $20 to $100 and a substance abuse education course will add another $250 or thereabouts. You would really want to do these because, often, the violations are removed from your record on completion of the courses.
Driver’s license reinstatement
Your driver’s license will be suspended. Although your attorney may get the suspension lifted or set aside, you should expect to pay a fee to have it reinstated. The minimum cost is $200.
Ignition Interlock Device
You may be required to fit an Ignition Interlock Device. Also known as an in-car breathalyzer or blow-and-go, this device will disable your car’s ignition if you’re over the limit. The installation is usually for a limited period, typically 120 days. Installation will be between $70 and $150 and the lease cost around $60 to $90 per month. All in, around $400 to $500.
Direct cost summary
So, to summarize, as you can see, the direct cost of a DUI case will cost you at least $5,000. And that is if you were marginally over the limit and you have cooperated with law enforcement officers and the court every step of the way. If your case is a little more serious, the cost can easily spiral to $10,000. Or more.
Other consequential costs
Insurance premiums. Expect your insurance premiums to go up. Radically. Once you’re convicted on DUI charges, the insurance companies will see you as a high-risk driver. Your premium will be increased in line with the higher risk profile. This could be as much as $800 in the first year. The premiums may be reduced gradually if you have no further traffic related issues. However, it may take at least three years for your premiums to return to pre-DUI levels.
Lost earnings
You will be expected to appear in court several times during a typical DUI case. Unless you have a very lenient and compassionate employer, you will have your salary docked. It’s impossible to put a number to this. On average, you should expect to lose around a week’s wages.
Mitigating the costs
Having read everything up to this point, you’re probably wondering if there is life after a DUI. Short answer; yes, there is. But the best strategy of all is to avoid a DUI. This whole process is not only hugely expensive. It also takes a serious mental toll. If you need to drive, avoid alcohol and drugs. If you must use them, take a taxi or get a designated driver.
If all else fails and you do get arrested, contact an experienced Atlanta DUI defense attorney such as attorney Richard Blevins, as soon as you can. Do not try to navigate your way through a DUI case on your own. Unless you’re an attorney yourself, you WILL regret it.
