How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost in Florida?

If you have found yourself facing a DUI charge in Florida, you are likely wondering how much an attorney is going to cost to represent you in court. While these additional fees might tempt you to represent yourself individually, an investment into an effective DUI lawyer could actually save you time and money while also potentially reducing your penalties. To learn more about the DUI lawyer cost in Florida, feel free to schedule a consultation with our team.

Factors That Influence the Cost of Your Florida DUI Lawyer

The overall cost of DUI attorney fees is highly dependent on many different factors. Some of the most common details that influence the total cost of your legal team include:

1. Experience and Reputation of the LawyerIf you find a lawyer who has years of experience and has earned a name in your community, it is likely that they will cost much more than someone who is just starting as a lawyer. This is because lawyers are able to charge a premium for the level of experience they have worked hard to earn and will be able to implement into your case.Having this type of experience can lead to more favorable outcomes, which is why higher fees are justified. This is especially true if a lawyer is known for being able to solve complicated cases. Because the market can be competitive, the attorney has more leverage to charge at a premium. However, paying extra for an experienced attorney does not necessarily mean you will lose funds in the end. They could save you money down the road by securing a better outcome.
2. Complexity of the CaseSpecific details surrounding a DUI charge can also determine how much legal representation will cost. For cases that are straightforward to solve and don’t require many hours of legal work, costs could remain on the low end. However, if your case becomes more complicated with details like DUI accidents, injuries, prior convictions, or even an above-average blood alcohol concentration level, all of this can extend the length of the case, which drives up the price.
3. Geographic LocationThe location of where you are charged with a DUI and where your attorney practices will also impact the cost. Urban areas like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando, where the cost of living is much higher, will generally have higher legal fees compared to rural Florida. This is largely because there is more competition in cities, which gives attorneys the ability to charge more for their services.
4. Case DurationThe longer your case takes to resolve, the more that costs have time to add up. This is because longer cases take more hours of an attorney’s time, usually have more court appearances, and have extra consultation sessions with their clients. If a case is unable to be settled outside of court, it is guaranteed to be a greater expense. However, having this type of legal support could save you money in the end after making an investment in quality legal representation.
5. Fee StructureAll attorneys charge their clients differently. In some instances, an attorney may prefer to change single flat fees for each service they offer. Others may prefer to charge by the hour to ensure they are compensated for every minute they put toward a case. Retainer fees are another common request, where attorneys ask their prospective clients for a pre-paid amount of money before they agree to start working on their case.

FAQ

Q: How Much Are Court Fees in Florida for a DUI?

A: Court fees for a DUI case in Florida vary based on how severe the alleged offense was and the specifics of the charge. The expense can expand for repeat DUI offenders. Other activities that could increase court fees include expenses for opening the case, for each court appearance, and for a final judgment.

Q: Should I Get a Lawyer for a DUI in Florida?

A: Yes, it is always recommended that you hire an attorney when facing a DUI in Florida. This is because DUI laws are complicated and come with harsh penalties. Working with an experienced lawyer can help you understand your legal options and navigate through complex proceedings. Your lawyer can also help build a strong defense strategy, offer you advice, and fight to have your charge lessened or even dismissed if they’re able.

Q: How Do You Get a DUI Dismissed in Florida?

A: The most effective way to have a DUI dismissed in Florida is to hire a strong legal defense attorney who is not afraid to challenge the prosecution’s evidence. This can be achieved by questioning how accurate a breathalyzer test was or if the traffic stop was legal to conduct. If there were any errors made during the arrest, an attorney can make a motion to dismiss the case based on procedural error.

Q: What Are the Penalties for a First-Time DUI in Florida?

A: Any first-time DUI offender charged in Florida can be fined anywhere from $500 to $1,000. This number increases to $1,000 – $2,000 if an individual’s blood alcohol level is 0.15% or higher. If your blood alcohol level was lower than this, but it was found that a child was in the car at the time, the fine could be up to $2,000. Extra penalties will be dependent on your case, such as if there was any property damage or injury to other stakeholders.

Q: Can a DUI Affect My Employment in Florida?

A: Yes, there are many different ways how a DUI could impact your employment in Florida. For example, any job that requires a clean driving record, like a bus or semi-truck driver, will have a hard time securing this type of role. This is because many employers find a DUI to be a sign of unreliability or poor judgment. Career fields like law enforcement or education could also fail to hire an otherwise qualified candidate simply for having a DUI on their record.

Contact the Law Office of Donald P. Day for DUI Defense

If you are facing DUI charges, contact the team at the Law Office of Donald P. Day today. We take pride in representing those who are facing serious criminal allegations and finding the most effective strategies to protect their rights and preserve their future. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our team.