Legal expertise comes at a price and many lawyers charge expensive fees to fight a second offense DUI case for the best outcome. However, cost of a DUI attorney does not always equate to level of expertise or track record of winning in court. FightDUICharges.com helps anyone find an inexpensive local attorney experienced with DUI cases.

If this is not your first DUI, here are some 2023 legal cost estimates regarding legal services for a second DUI, DWI offense case.

Typical 2nd Offense DUI Costs to Expect

Fines, increased driver insurance premiums, charges for alcohol education programs, and legal fees are typical DUI costs. Of these, lawyer fees can be the most expensive at an average minimum price for $3,000 for a second DUI, DWI offense case.

Some individuals charged with DUI believe that professional legal representation is not worth it. Unfortunately, many later realize that self-representation can be much more expensive. A good local attorney can reduce costly penalties of a 2nd offense DUI or get the case thrown out of court.

Second DUI, DWI Offense Legal Costs

Several factors determine the overall cost of retaining a DUI attorney for a 2nd offense. These include whether the lawyer bills hourly or charges a flat fee, how experienced the attorney is, state of residence, and the type and amount of legal work involved in the case. Individuals charged with a second DUI should expect to pay more than first-time offenders because their cases are usually more complex. Legal costs for a second DUI range from the mid-thousands to five figures.

The cost of hiring a lawyer for a second DUI (driving under the influence) charge will vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience and reputation, and the location of the case. Here are some general factors that may impact the cost of hiring a lawyer near you for a second DUI charge:

1. Hourly rate: Many DUI lawyers charge an hourly rate for their services. This rate can range from $100 to $500 or more per hour, depending on the lawyer’s experience and reputation.
2. Retainer fee: Some lawyers may require a retainer fee upfront, which is a deposit that will be applied toward the lawyer’s hourly rate. The size of the retainer fee will depend on the lawyer’s hourly rate and the expected amount of time the case will take to resolve.
3. Flat fee: Some DUI lawyers may offer a flat fee for their services, which means that you will pay a set amount regardless of how much time the lawyer spends on your case. Flat fees can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the complexity of the case.
4. Expenses: In addition to the lawyer’s fees, you may also be responsible for paying other expenses related to your case, such as court costs, expert witness fees, and travel expenses.

It’s important to keep in mind that the cost of hiring a lawyer for a second DUI charge can vary significantly depending on the specific circumstances of your case. It’s a good idea to shop around and get quotes from several different lawyers before making a decision. You should also be prepared to discuss your budget with the lawyer and see if they can work with you to come up with a payment plan that fits your needs.

Attorneys outline their legal services and fee arrangements in a document called an engagement letter. Requesting an engagement letter from several DUI attorneys is completely acceptable. Use FightDUICharges.com to find two or three top local DUI lawyers to review, compare their engagement letters, and sign the letter from the attorney who will be retained.

Many DUI lawyers require a retainer payment representing a portion or all of the legal costs. This means the defendant will need to spend money before any legal work commences. A retainer is usually due immediately after signing an engagement letter. If the attorney is fired or overall legal costs are less than the amount paid on retainer, the remainder will be returned.

Most DUI defense attorneys charge legal fees an hourly rate that typically varies from less than $100 to more than $1,000 based on experience level, location, and area of legal expertise. Billable hours are the number of hours the attorney spends doing work directly related to the DUI case. This includes time spent researching, corresponding in writing or via telephone, and preparing written documents. It is rare for a DUI attorney to charge a flat fee or accept a case on a contingency basis that requires no payment unless the DUI case is won.

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Taryn J. White

Taryn J. White is a legal research specialist and DUI law news reporter. Her current accomplishments include helping those facing any driving under the influence arrest charges, get free online assistance in learning how to fight a DUI case for the best possible outcome.