First DUI: Costs

The costs associated with a first DUI offense depend on state law, the attorney that you choose for your defense, and the severity of the charges against you. If your first DUI involves an accident where another person was injured or killed or their property was damaged, you can expect the costs to escalate significantly.

Types of Costs

A first DUI results in a variety of costs, including:

• bail
• fines
• court fees
• attorney fees
• ignition interlock device installation and maintenance
• increased car insurance premiums
• additional transportation costs if license is suspended
• insurance deductible or entire car repair cost if in an accident
• towing and storage of car
• possible replacement of car if too damaged to repair
• drug or alcohol treatment program
• license reinstatement fee, or
• court ordered restitution to a victim or victim's family.

Amounts You May Owe

You will probably pay thousands of dollars as a result of your first DUI, even if you did not cause any injury or damage to yourself or another person. Here are some typical costs for a non-injury first DUI:

• $500 or more for bail
• $1,000 or more for fines
• $750 or more for court fees
• $4,000 or more for an attorney to defend you
• $500 or more for the installation and monthly fees associated with an ignition interlock device
• $1,000 or more increase in your annual car insurance premiums which will last at least several years
• $650 or more for a drug or alcohol treatment program

Getting Legal Help

A first DUI, even without aggravating circumstances, is a serious charge that can have a devastating impact on your life. A lawyer may be able to help you, even if you failed a blood alcohol test. Contact an experienced DUI attorney to discuss your case and to find out what the potential penalties are in the county where you received your DUI.