I’ve been a criminal defense attorney for many years now and I have met with many clients. Through client conversations and meetings I’ve noticed that clients tend to ask the same questions… So I thought it would be a good idea to blog about these frequently asked DUI questions and other frequently asked questions and I will provide my answers. Hopefully this Q&A is helpful!
Frequently Asked DUI Questions and More – Part 1
Q. What is your legal fee for a DUI?
A. I do not have a set fee for a DUI. Because each DUI case and each individual charged with a DUI are unique I prefer to meet in person for a free consultation where I can discuss the circumstances of the case and criminal history. After getting to know more about the person and their case, I know how much work and time it will take to achieve the best possible case resolution and I can provide a flat legal fee quote. On average I charge a flat legal fee of $4000 – $6000 for a DUI.
Q. What is your legal fee for other criminal charges?
A. I do not have set legal fees. I prefer to talk with each individual charged with a crime, find out more about them and their case and then I can determine their cost for legal representation.
Q. What is the penalty for a first time DUI offense?
A. It depends on your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) result when you blew into the DUI breathalyzer or had blood drawn or if you refused to provide a BAC sample:
BAC result less than .15 = 1-364 days in jail or 15 days of EHM (electric home monitoring), $941-$5,000 fine, ignition interlock device for 1 year, and 90 day license suspension.
BAC result more than .15 or refusal = 2-364 days in jail or 30 days of EHM, $1,196-$5,000 fine, ignition interlock device for 1 year, and license revocation for 1 year if BAC result was more than .15 or license revocation for 2 years if BAC was refused.
Q. Can you guarantee my case will get dismissed?
A. No, I cannot guarantee your case will be dismissed and no other attorney should tell you that they can guarantee your case will be dismissed during the early stages of your case. DUI cases and other criminal cases take a lot of work to negotiate, investigate, and sometimes going through trial before a resolution can be reached. I cannot guarantee your case will be dismissed but my goal for each and every client is to work hard to achieve the best possible case outcome.
Q. How should I dress for court?
A. I tell clients they should dress as if they were going to church. For men, slacks or nice jeans with a button down or collared shirt is appropriate. Men do not need to wear a suit unless they would like to. For women, a conservative dress, slacks or nice jeans with a blouse works well. Dressing appropriately, shows the judge that you are taking the case seriously and that you are being respectful while in the judge’s presence.
That’s the end of Frequently Asked DUI Questions and More – Part 1. Hope it’s been helpful! Link to Part 2.
I have always wondered what would happen if me or one of my family members got a DUI, so I really appreciate this information. It’s interesting how you point out that the penalty for DUI offenses is different for every case and depends on the blood alcohol concentration. I imagine that if any of us are ever in this situation that it will be crucial for us to hire a DUI defense lawyer who has our best interest in mind and has good reviews.