The cost of hiring an attorney for Chicago DUI defense largely depends on the experience of the attorney and the amount of training they've had relating to DUI cases. Other reasons may vary between lawyers. For example, some attorneys charge by the hour, whereas others charge by the project.
The costs of hiring a criminal defense attorney for your DUI charges can be offset by the results they bring. For example, your lawyer may be able to help you avoid jail time, which can negatively impact your income as you miss work or possibly lose your job. You can face unpredictable consequences, ranging from losing your driving privileges to expensive fines, from a DUI conviction, and an experienced DUI attorney can help you avoid the worst results.
The amount that a DUI lawyer costs in Chicago will vary depending on your area and the lawyer you decide to work with. You will want to shop your different options for attorneys to find the one you are most confident will get you the best results from your case. Contact an attorney at Chicago DUI Defense for a free initial consultation to begin exploring your defense options.
What to Expect From DUI Offense Costs
There are several different ways in which a driver can figure out what the total cost of a drunk driving charge is in Illinois. The fees you can expect from a drunk driving attorney will vary depending on the lawyer you choose to work with. The DUI costs vary depending on the attorney, the criminal charges, and the details of the case, and what happened during your particular arrest.
Aside from the social stigmas, inconveniences, and financial burdens, getting a DUI in Illinois comes with a hefty price tag of legal costs, court fees, and fines. It is important for everyone charged with a DUI in the state of Illinois to review the average costs of a DUI lawyer to anticipate their case expenses.
It is illegal for drivers, passengers, or anyone else who is in control of a vehicle to operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher, drugs, medications, or any combination thereof. Those who are arrested for driving under the influence face a number of Illinois DUI costs and fines to regain their driver’s license.
However, if you take the proper steps and get the proper help from an experienced DUI attorney, it may still be possible for you to avoid a conviction and dramatically lower the potential penalties and fines associated with a DUI conviction.
What is the Cost of an Illinois DUI Attorney?
If you're facing a DUI criminal charge, you don't want to wait until the last minute to get legal representation. You shouldn't hire just any attorney, however, so be sure to research your options. This article summarizes the average costs associated with hiring an Illinois DUI lawyer for your case.
Fighting a first time DUI charge in court with an attorney will usually start at a minimum of $1,500 and go higher depending on a number of factors. There are several factors that can affect the average cost of a DUI and attorney fees in Illinois. The cost may vary from attorney to attorney, depending on the criminal charges, and depending on the activities surrounding your arrest
Chicago DUI Penalties
There are several penalties for getting a DUI in Illinois. Under Illinois DUI law, drunk driving carries severe consequences including a driver's license suspension for at least one year, possible imprisonment, hefty fines, and community service. It can have a devastating effect if it leads to losing your job, marriage, etc.
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The statutory summary suspension will begin 46 days after your arrest, and other penalties can be made more severe depending on extenuating circumstances in your case such as if your DUI led to bodily harm or if you had an excessively high blood alcohol concentration at the time of your arrest.
Determining Your Illinois DUI Cost
You may be charged with a DUI in Illinois if you drive, attempt to drive or oversee a motor vehicle in Illinois if your BAC exceeds 0.08.
Aside from the revocation or suspension of their driver’s licenses and possible imprisonment, those charged with DUI face a series of Illinois DUI court costs and fines. Here are the costs and fines associated with drunk driving in Illinois, Chicago:
Illinois DUI Classes
If you are convicted, you will be required to take a class on the dangers of drunk driving which you will have to pay for. These classes start at around $50 a class with counseling fees at $200. You will also have to pay the costs for drug and alcohol screening.
Initial Illinois DUI Costs, Fines, and Fees
If you are convicted of a DUI in Illinois, the fines and fees you will be required to pay can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. The good news is you'll get your money back, minus any non-refundable fees, if you appear as scheduled in court.
If your car gets towed, you may also have to pay an additional tow and impound fee. This could be anywhere from $500 to $2K in Illinois DUI costs. If you are convicted of a DUI in Illinois, the fines can be quite high, and they can go up to thousands of dollars, in addition to court fees.
It can also be an expensive process to get your driving privileges restored. You will need to pay these license reinstatement fees before your driver's license is returned to you.
Increase in the Cost of Illinois Auto Insurance Premiums
It is important to note that a DUI conviction can increase your insurance by an average of 19%. However, the increase may vary depending on factors like your location and your insurance company. How long you'll pay a high insurance rate varies depending on your company, but generally, it takes at least three years for your insurance premium to go down. After a DUI, high-risk insurance will cost an additional average of $1,500 per year and typically require three years to be covered.
Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device Costs
For first-time DUI offenses in Illinois, an ignition interlock device and the cost for installation/maintenance of the device are often part of the strict DUI penalties for a driver who has been charged with DUI.
An ignition interlock device is a machine that records the driver's blood alcohol content and prevents the vehicle from starting if the driver's BAC is above a certain limit. Installation of an ignition interlock device in Illinois typically costs between $100 and $200, and the rental fee ranges from $70 to $120 per month. Regular maintenance and calibration will add additional costs.
Work with an Experienced Attorney in Chicago
At Chicago DUI Defense, our drunk driving lawyers are skilled litigators who fight to get results for their clients. We have the trial experience you will need to fight your charges, and won't accept a plea bargain unless it is truly a favorable outcome. We will work to have evidence disallowed, challenge the arresting officer's testimony and reports, and work to have your drunk driving charge reduced or even dismissed to protect your driving record. We are also ready to help you if your license has been suspended or revoked.
If you are facing criminal charges for a DUI offense, look for legal advice from our criminal lawyers at Chicago DUI Defense. Contact us today for a free initial consultation to see how we can help!
