The Cost of a DUI Conviction: Financial Implications and Strategies for Minimization

Getting a DUI conviction can easily wreak havoc on your finances. Most reports say that the average total cost of a DUI conviction is between $10,000 and $30,000. According to the California Judicial Council, the average cost of a teenager’s first DUI conviction includes the following:

• $100 – Drivers’ license reinstatement fee
• $650 – DUI classes
• $685 for five days, $137 daily – Vehicle towing and impound fee
• $4,000 – Court and legal fees
• $40,000 – Yearly increase in auto insurance rates over 13 years
• $45,435 – Estimated minimum overall cost

This estimated cost doesn’t include related medical and emotional costs to anyone hurt in the DUI accident, the challenges of securing a job due to a DUI conviction, or the damages that must be paid in a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.

The Average Cost of a DUI Conviction in Ventura

Most of the DUI costs have to do with the penalties because they vary significantly, depending on whether it’s your first or succeeding arrest or conviction, whether you hurt or killed someone, and your blood alcohol concentration (BAC).

• Court Fees – Assuming you don’t need to post bail, you’ll still need to pay a fine, which can be between $390 and $1,000, not including other court fees.
• License Reinstatement Fees – The reinstatement fee is about $125.
• Towing and Storage Fees – The fees are usually between $100 and $1,200.
• Transportation Costs – These vary widely and are spent on taking public transportation if you lose your driver’s license.
• Alcohol Abuse Classes – As part of your sentence, you may be required to attend these classes, which cost between $500 and $800, depending on the duration.
• Increased Auto Insurance Costs – In general, getting a DUI conviction will increase your auto insurance rates by 25% for approximately ten years. Also, you’ll have limited options for auto insurance, home loans, and life insurance.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID) – The cost to use an IID is around $3 daily, plus regular calibration and maintenance fees and between $75 and $100 for the installation.
• Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor (SCRAM) Bracelet – The installation cost for a SCRAM bracelet is between $50 and $100, while monitoring fees range from $10 to $15 per day.
• Legal Fees – Depending on various factors, which mainly include the complexity of the DUI case, the specific DUI charges, your location, and the attorney’s reputation and experience, legal fees usually start at $3,000.

How to Minimize The Cost of a DUI Conviction in Ventura

The most foolproof way to minimize the cost of a DUI conviction is to work with an experienced Ventura DUI defense attorney. Among other defense strategies, they can:

• Contest your DUI arrest. An experienced Ventura DUI defense attorney can determine where errors on the police’s part have occurred during your arrest and can develop a solid defense to dismiss your case or reduce your sentence if a dismissal isn’t possible.
• Determine whether a plea deal is best for your case. A plea deal, agreement, or bargain can reduce your DUI sentence and penalties, which results in lower fines and fees.

Seek Legal Help From a Skilled Ventura DUI Defense Attorney Now

If you’re dealing with a DUI charge, reach out to the Ventura DUI defense attorneys at Bamieh & De Smeth. Learn more about your case by scheduling a free case consultation with our Ventura DUI defense attorney online or at 805-643-5555.