There are an enormous number of variables when attempting to calculate the overall cost of a 1st time DUI or DWI conviction. The first (and in some cases most important) variable is what state or jurisdiction you are in at the time of the offense. For instance, Illinois requires a first time offender to enter the Ignition Interlock program for a period of 1 year after a first offense conviction. This program can grow to be very costly, as in some states you have to both pay for the installation of the unit and rent the machine for the 12 months you’re under the program’s supervision. At the same time, South Carolina only imparts a $400 fine and up to 30 days in jail.
Felony vs. Misdemeanor
Another important variable in a 1st time DUI case is the final charge assessed to the defendant.
- In some cases, the DUI is a clear cut case, with no other vehicles, property, or people involved. You simply were pulled over by a police officer and subsequently arrested for having a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or greater.
- In some states, having a BAC of greater than the legal limit in itself can multiply your sentence.
- In these typical cases, the DUI charge you face is a misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum fine of $5,000 and up to 1 year in jail.
Cases with more complex details, however, may in fact elevate the typical DUI charge to a felony.
- In some states a BAC of over 0.2% is considered gross or aggravated DUI, and results in a felony charge for the defendant.
- Also DUI charges that involve an accident, especially cases that involve property damage or injury/death, are almost guaranteed to bring about felony DUI charges.
- You can also be charged with felony DUI in some states after a certain number of offenses, and some states can use offenses in other states as prior DUI charges. Felony charges are generally described as being punishable by up to $20,000 in fines and anywhere from 1 to 25 years in prison.
Costs
Before you decide to drink and drive, consider the following general estimates of first-time DUI costs:
- Fine-$400 - $1200
- Defense- $1000 - $5000
- Ignition Interlock- $1000-$3000
This doesn't include court fees or fees to get your license back. Your first DUI conviction can end up costing you anywhere from $2400 to $9200, not including fees and cost incurred due to the loss/reinstatement of your licensing privileges.
Getting Help
A DUI charge is considered a criminal charge in all states. This means that when you are arrested on this charge, you are entitled to professional defense. While you will have to pay for this defense, thus increasing your costs, getting a qualified lawyer is often the best way to minimize fines and penalties you may face as a result of the DUI.
