August 21, 2024 | DUI Defense
If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence (DUI), you need an experienced defense attorney. A DUI is a serious charge that can lead to jail time, fines, and loss of your license. In addition, it can mean you have a criminal record that stays with you for life.
A skilled defense attorney will help you defend the charge and protect your rights. Your lawyer will work hard to get the best result possible so you can get your life back on track after a DUI charge.
Hiring an experienced DUI attorney is crucial. Even so, one of the questions frequently asked is, How much does a DUI lawyer cost? Here’s an overview of expenses you can expect in a DUI case. Contact a Louisville DUI lawyer to learn more or discuss your case.
How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost?
The cost of a DUI lawyer varies significantly from case to case.
Some of the factors that impact how much a DUI lawyer costs are:
- The complexity of the case
- Whether or not it’s your first offense
- The lawyer’s experience
- The law firm’s reputation
- Whether or not there are injuries or property damage
- The amount of evidence and witnesses available
- Whether the case can be resolved with a plea agreement instead of going to trial
Given these factors, the cost of a DUI attorney can range from $1,000 – $10,000. That said, in many cases, the cost of an attorney is between $2,000 and $5,000.
In an initial consultation with an attorney, the lawyer will discuss the fees for your case.
There are two types of fee structures used in DUI cases: flat fees and hourly rates.
Most DUI attorneys charge a flat fee. This means that the lawyer will estimate the cost of your case and charge a one-time, flat fee for legal expenses.
In some instances, lawyers will charge an hourly rate for DUI cases. In these situations, the lawyer and client will agree on an hourly rate. The lawyer will then keep track of hours and bill the client periodically.
When the hourly fee structure is used, the lawyer usually collects a retainer fee at the beginning of representation. This retainer is applied toward hours billed. After the credit from the retainer is used up, the lawyer will begin billing hourly and sending the client bills.
To learn more, schedule a free consultation to discuss your Louisville DUI case.
Additional DUI Expenses to Consider
When considering the cost of a DUI, attorney fees are not the only expenses you need to consider.
Some other common DUI costs are:
- Court issued fines
- Court fees
- Expenses to reinstate your driver’s license
- Increased car insurance rates
- Traffic school and treatment program expenses
- Towing and impound expenses
- Ignition interlock device expenses
An experienced lawyer can help minimize the cost of a DUI charge by:
- Gathering the necessary evidence to support your case, including police reports, video recordings, and test results.
- Knowing the rules law enforcement must follow and using any mistakes to strengthen your case.
- Knowing local prosecutors and understanding how the DUI system works.
DUI charges are serious and can have a significant impact on your life. An experienced DUI lawyer understands these cases, knows your rights, and can work hard to get the best outcome possible.
A Louisville DUI Defense Attorney Can Help
If you or a loved one has been charged with a DUI, a skilled DUI defense attorney can help. They can fight for the best results possible in your case and ensure that your rights are protected.
For more information, contact the criminal defense attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers give us a call today at (502) 371-7000 or visit us at our Louisville law office.
Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers
214 S Clay St A
Louisville, KY 40202
(502) 371-7000
