How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost?
What you'll actually pay — and whether it's worth it.
Quick Answer
DUI lawyers typically cost $1,500–$5,000 for a standard first offense with a flat fee arrangement. Complex cases or trials can run $5,000–$15,000+. Most DUI attorneys offer free consultations and payment plans.
What DUI Lawyers Actually Charge
| Case Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| First offense, plea deal | $1,500–$3,500 |
| First offense, contested | $3,000–$7,000 |
| High BAC or aggravating factors | $3,500–$8,000 |
| Second offense | $4,000–$10,000 |
| DUI with accident/injury | $5,000–$15,000+ |
| Felony DUI | $7,500–$25,000+ |
| Trial (any DUI) | $10,000–$25,000+ |
Why Prices Vary So Much
The biggest factors that affect what you'll pay:
Flat Fee vs Hourly Billing
Flat Fee (Most Common)
- • One price covers everything
- • Know total cost upfront
- • Typical: $1,500–$5,000
Hourly Rate
- • $150–$500/hour typical
- • Hard to predict total
- • Can escalate quickly
Recommendation: Get a flat fee quote whenever possible. You'll know exactly what you're paying.
What Should Be Included in the Fee
Standard Flat Fee Includes
May Cost Extra
Why Lawyer Fees Vary by State
Fees depend on local rates and on how much work your state’s process takes — a separate license hearing, mandatory penalties, or more court dates all add hours. Get quotes from two or three local DUI lawyers, and read your state’s guide so you know what they’ll be handling.
Is Hiring a DUI Lawyer Worth the Cost?
Worth It When
- • Fighting the charges
- • High BAC (0.15%+)
- • Accident involved
- • Professional license at risk
- • Prior DUI on record
Might Skip When
- • Clear-cut case, low BAC
- • Just want to plead guilty
- • Qualify for public defender
How to Afford a DUI Lawyer
Free consultations
Shop around — most DUI lawyers offer free initial consultations
Payment plans
Most firms offer monthly payment plans to spread the cost
Public defender
If you meet income requirements, a public defender is free
Flat fee
Request flat fee quotes for predictable, manageable costs
Negotiate
Ask if they'll match a competitor's quote
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
- 1.What's your total flat fee for my case?
- 2.What does that include?
- 3.What might cost extra?
- 4.How many DUI cases have you handled?
- 5.What's the likely outcome for my situation?
- 6.Do you offer payment plans?
- 7.Who will actually handle my case day-to-day?
Red Flags to Avoid
Not sure if you need a lawyer?
Learn what a DUI lawyer actually does for your case before deciding.
What a DUI Lawyer Does