How to Find the Cost of a DUI Conviction

Aside from the social stigma, time commitment and energy involved in a DUI conviction, there is considerable financial cost. This can include license reinstatement costs, court fees, attorney fees, mandatory DUI classes, an interlock device on your steering wheel and ongoing drug and alcohol counseling. Here's how to get information on DUI costs.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Start your search for information on the cost of a DUI conviction on the Internet. Search on FindLaw (see Resources below) under 'DUI' for general country-wide attorney fee estimates.
2. On your state's Department of Motor Vehicle Web site you should find specific information on DUI laws and a scale of what you can expect your costs will be, based on the severity of the violation.
3. Hire an attorney who specializes in DUI cases if your income allows it. This attorney will be able to give you solid information on what to expect in terms of cost.
4. Add your attorney's fee into your total. You can request an estimate, or estimate this cost based on your attorney's hourly rate.

Tips & Warnings

• Many DUI attorneys offer a free consultation to go over the basic facts of your case. Ask for a ballpark figure on what the defense will cost you, based on state laws and your particular situation. You have the right to have your costs estimated free of charge.
• A DUI conviction can be costly for years to come. Your insurance rates will increase, sometimes dramatically. For some, a DUI conviction will also be costly in terms of employment--with limited options for the future and, in some cases, termination.