What Are the Financial Costs of a DUI Conviction in Los Angeles?

The Financial Burden of a DUI Conviction in Los Angeles

Driving while intoxicated (DUI) is a serious legal offense in the United States. It’s against the law to drive under the influence of alcohol and other illegal substances. Doing so puts the lives of innocent motorists and bystanders at risk.

Thus, DUI penalties in Los Angeles come with stringent consequences for the convicted. If you are facing DUI charges in Los Angeles, it’s important to know about these penalties upfront. This way, you can be prepared for any outcome.

In this guide, we’ll explain the financial costs of a DUI conviction in Los Angeles. We’ll also describe how hiring a Los Angeles DUI attorney is your best chance at minimizing or eliminating this enormous financial burden.

Fines and Penalties for a DUI Conviction in Los Angeles

The first and most obvious financial burden of a DUI conviction in Los Angeles is the fines and penalties imposed by the court. These can include:

• Base fines: The base fine for a first-time DUI conviction in Los Angeles can range from $400 to $1,000. This includes penalty assessments, which can increase the total of the fine to $2,600 or more.
• Probation fees: Probation isn’t free. This alternative to incarceration involves constant supervision by a probation officer. If you are placed on probation, you can expect to pay a monthly fee of $50 or more.
• License suspension fees: If your driver’s license is suspended, you’ll need to pay a fee to reinstate it, which can cost several hundred dollars.

If you are convicted of a DUI, you can expect to pay some or all of these fines. The specific amount of the fine depends on the nature of the crime and how many times it’s happened before.

Increased Insurance Premiums After a DUI Conviction

One of the most significant long-term financial consequences of a DUI conviction in Los Angeles is the impact on your car insurance rates. Insurance companies view DUI offenders s high-risk drivers.

As such, they will raise your auto insurance premiums substantially, sometimes doubling or tripling your total cost of coverage. This increased cost can last for several years. If you have multiple DUIs on your record, it may even be permanent.

Legal Fees and Court Costs Associated with a DUI Case

On top of paying for the help of an experienced DUI lawyer, you may also be responsible for various court fees and expenses, such as:

• Court filing fees
• Transcript fees
• Bail bond fees

These legal and court-related expenses can quickly add up, further straining your financial resources. With that said, some may consider defending themselves in court to avoid paying a lawyer.

The problem is that not having a lawyer on your side puts you up against an aggressive prosecutor. They are armed with tremendous resources to push for a guilty verdict. As a result, you could stand to lose more money by neglecting to hire a lawyer.

Ignition Interlock Device Costs for DUI Offenders

If you are convicted of a DUI in Los Angeles, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. This device, which prevents your car from starting if it detects any alcohol on your breath, can cost you $70 to $100 per month to lease and maintain.

These devices are mandated by the court, meaning you’ll need to have them in your car in order to drive. Otherwise, you could violate your probation and face significant jail time.

Loss of Income and Employment Opportunities Due to a DUI Conviction

A DUI conviction can also have a significant impact on your employment and income. You may face suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, making it difficult or impossible to get back to work.

Additionally, some employers may choose to terminate or not hire individuals with a DUI conviction on their record, limiting your job prospects and earning potential. If you are convicted of a DUI, the charge can be found using a background check.

Any employer that runs a background check on you will be able to see the conviction.

Other Hidden Costs of a DUI Conviction

Beyond the direct financial costs, a DUI conviction can also lead to hidden expenses, such as:

• Increased vehicle registration fees
• Higher interest rates on loans and credit cards
• Difficulty finding or maintaining housing
• Difficulty renting a car or obtaining a rental property
• Potential loss of professional licenses or certifications

As you can see, your entire life could be affected due to a DUI conviction. This is why it’s important to hire an experienced DUI attorney in Los Angeles who will fight for your innocence.

Why You Need a DUI Lawyer

DUI charges are treated seriously by the prosecution. They are cut and dry, meaning you are immediately charged if you are suspected of driving while intoxicated. As a result, you’ll need a DUI attorney to fight for your rights and protect your freedom.

Hiring an attorney will level the playing field against the prosecution. Your attorney will use their tools and resources to gather exculpatory evidence that exonerates you from guilt. They may also work with the prosecution to negotiate for a reduced sentence.

Either way, hiring a lawyer gives you the best shot at beating a DUI conviction.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

The financial burden of a DUI conviction in Los Angeles is heavy, even if you’re a first-time offender. If you hire a DUI attorney, you can maximize your chances of having your charges reduced or dropped.

This is where the legal team at DUI Defense Group comes in. We have tremendous experience in helping defendants win favorable outcomes in the face of serious DUI charges. If you’d like to speak to us, contact us to schedule a free consultation.