What Are The Actual Costs Of A Florida DUI Conviction?

Facing a DUI isn't the best-case-scenario for anyone, and most people understand that facing a DUI is generally bad news.

However, there's a common lack of understanding when it comes to how serious and costly DUIs can actually be, especially in the State of Florida. This can lead people to balk at the idea of hiring a DUI attorney to prevent or reduce the impact of a DUI conviction. Many people assume that hiring an attorney would be far more costly than risking the case on their own. In fact, a better understanding of the real costs involved when it comes to Florida DUIs can clear up that misunderstanding rather quickly.

• Fees: To begin with, there are many fees and costs associated with a DUI arrest and conviction. Importantly, these are merely the fees that come with the process, not the fines you may be sentenced to. They include:
  • Court Costs: Florida DUI court costs average out to around $500.
  • DUI School Fee: Many people convicted of DUIs in Florida are required to go to DUI school or traffic school, which usually costs around $300.
  • Drug and/or Alcohol Evaluation and Counseling: A Florida DUI conviction may require you to go through evaluation for drug and/or alcohol abuse, which starts out at around $200. If you are required to go through more extensive treatment (especially intensive outpatient or inpatient programs), those fees can rise astronomically
  • Ignition Interlock Device Fees: Many people convicted of a Florida DUI are required to install an ignition interlock device on their car. Many people don't realize that you are required to foot the bill for this device, which can range anywhere from $550 to $1,900.
  • Vehicle Impoundment: When you are arrested for a DUI, your vehicle is impounded while you are taken for processing. In order to get your vehicle out, you will be required to pay a fee. Depending on the circumstances, this can be anywhere from around $100 to over $400.
  • Work Purposes Driver's License: If your license is suspended as a result of a DUI, but you require a car to get to and from work, you will need to apply for a Work Purposes Driver's License. This application come with a processing fee of at least $350.
• Increased Insurance Rates: Getting a DUI is virtually guaranteed to make your auto insurance rates skyrocket. Often, those convicted of a Florida DUI find that their rates double and, in some cases, even triple after a DUI conviction. These rates often remain inflated for several years after a DUI incident.
• Fines: In addition to fees, those convicted of DUIs are often also required to pay fines as a part of their sentencing. Fines can vary depending on the type of DUI charges you are facing and whether there is actually a conviction (which very much depends on whether you have sufficient legal representation). In brief, though, the sentencing guidelines for DUI fines break down as follows:

1. 1. 1. For DUIs with a BAC less than 0.15:
         • First Conviction: $500-$1,000
         • Second Conviction: $1,000-$2,000
         • Third Conviction: $2,000-$5,000
         • Fourth and Subsequent Convictions: at least $2,000, and often far more
      2. For DUIs with a BAC greater than 0.15:
         • First Conviction: $1,000-$2,000
         • Second Conviction: $2,000-$4,000
         • Third Conviction: $4,000-$5,000
         • Fourth and Subsequent Convictions: at least $2,000, and often far more

• Lost Wages: Having to deal with a DUI can result in lost wages in a number of ways. In some cases, DUI convictions can result in job termination, especially if you are employed as a commercial driver or in a licensed profession. You may also lose your job or the ability to put in work hours because your license is suspended as the result of a DUI, or because you have to commit to community service, drug and alcohol counseling, DUI school, and/or extensive hearings and administrative proceedings.

This is especially true if you are convicted of a DUI and sentenced to jail time, which is likely to result in termination from your job as well as difficulty obtaining another job upon your release.

The Real Costs of a DUI & How to Avoid Them

A DUI conviction can affect your finances, future opportunities, and personal life in significant ways. Beyond legal repercussions, you might face elevated insurance rates, job difficulties, and unexpected emotional stress. Understanding these consequences ahead of time can help you make informed decisions about your defense.

Financial Burden

Even a first DUI conviction can mean steep fines and court fees. Depending on your situation, these expenses can run into the thousands. Your auto insurance premiums might also skyrocket, or your policy could be canceled altogether.

It is easy to overlook legal costs, but hiring an experienced attorney can often save more money in the long run. Navigating the court system alone can lead to harsher penalties, which end up being far more expensive than sound legal representation.

Personal and Professional Consequences

A DUI conviction becomes part of your criminal record, appearing on background checks for jobs, housing applications, and educational opportunities. Losing your driver's license can make daily tasks like commuting or picking up children from school difficult or impossible.

Educational institutions and landlords may also weigh criminal records in admissions or leasing decisions. This can derail long-term goals and create unexpected life hurdles. An arrest alone can cause immediate stress and strain on family, relationships, and mental health.

Avoiding a DUI

Many DUI charges result from impulsive decisions or failing to plan. Designating a sober driver or using rideshare apps can keep you from ever facing DUI charges. If you have had a couple of drinks and feel unsure about driving, it is safer and often cheaper to arrange alternate transportation.

It is also vital to know your constitutional rights. If stopped by the police, remain cooperative but seek legal counsel as soon as you can. An attorney's early involvement often impacts the outcome of your case in significant ways.

Reach Out Before It's Too Late

A DUI can disrupt your life for years to come. Our team at The Law Place is available to discuss strategies that can minimize these negative consequences. We encourage you to contact us for guidance in preventing, managing, or defending against DUI charges.