A DUI charge can have far-reaching consequences on your life. Depending on the severity, you may be looking at a fine of $500 to $2000, license suspension or revocation, increased insurance premiums, probation, alcohol treatment classes, or even jail time.
“Being charged with a DUI is serious, and you shouldn’t face it alone,” says Eric Mark, DUI lawyer at the Law Office of Eric M. Mark. They will explain the charges to you and help you build a defense. But how do they charge? How much will their service cost you? The answer to these questions is as complicated as the charge itself. Keep reading for more information.
What Do DUI Lawyers Do?
Before we discuss how much they charge, you should know what services to expect from these attorneys.
Reviewing Police Reports and Evidence
Once you sign the agreement, one of the first things your lawyer will do is thoroughly review the police reports and any available evidence associated with your charges. This may include carefully analyzing the arresting officers’ reports and the results of the administered sobriety tests. This is all to look for inconsistencies or processing errors that can be used to challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
Interviewing Witnesses
You might have had passengers in your car, or pedestrians may have seen your traffic stop and arrest. Your lawyer will interview these witnesses for statements that can support your defense. Furthermore, your lawyer will assess the credibility of the statements and determine how they can use these pieces of evidence to bolster your claim.
Building a Defense
Your lawyer must deeply understand case law to defend your DUI charges. They may research and analyze similar cases to look for successful defense strategies and even examine recent court decisions.
Negotiating With Prosecutors
Lawyers often negotiate with prosecutors to pursue a lesser offense like reckless driving, minimizing potential penalties and even arranging alternative sentencing options. They will counsel you on the benefits of entering a plea agreement, depending on the unique circumstances of your case.
Preparing for and Attending Court Hearings
Your attorney will prepare for and attend a series of court hearings as your case progresses, including arraignments, pre-trial conferences, motion hearings, and status updates. It’s also your lawyer’s job to prepare you for the court. They’ll tell you what to expect, what to wear, how to act, and even respond to questions. During the trial, they will present your interests and argue motions on your behalf, ultimately ensuring your rights are protected.
Mapping Out DUI Lawyer Fees
Your bill will depend on several factors, the most important of which is the complexity and severity of your charge. The legal fees may range from $1,500 to $3,000 for first-time DUI offenses with no aggravating factors. This figure increases as the case becomes more complex, sometimes even costing over $10,000. Here are the factors that will determine the size of your legal bill:
- The severity of your charges: Suppose you’re facing multiple DUI convictions or have prior charges. In that case, defending these charges may demand more time and resources, translating to higher fees.
- The complexity of your case: Building a defense strategy becomes more complex if your charge involves an accident with injuries. This, too, can hike your legal fees.
- Your lawyer’s experience and reputation: It’s common practice for attorneys with a good track record of success and more experience to charge higher fees.
Conclusion
Up to this point, it’s clear that the exact attorney fees for your DUI case will depend on the nature of the charge itself. The more complex and severe, the higher the costs. Nonetheless, you should never pass up on working with an attorney as their representation can greatly impact your case, especially when they have a good track record and a well-regarded reputation in the courts.