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How Much Does a DUI Cost in Colorado?

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Posted By William McAdams | September 27 2024 | DUI

If you contact several DUI attorneys in Greeley, Co.your area, you’re likely to get different quotes for how much their services cost. Legal fees are primarily based on the circumstances of your criminal case and the severity of the charges you face. However, an attorney’s reputation and experience can also influence how much they charge.

While the lowest-cost attorney might seem the most attractive, you should always work with an attorney who has experience and a successful track record. You also want to have confidence in your lawyer, especially when you’re facing DUI charges and so much is on the line.

Consult a reputable DUI defense attorney in Greeley, Co., to discuss your case and potential legal fees. Never delay in hiring trusted defense counsel for your DUI matter.

The Crucial Role of a Local DUI Attorney

DUI defendants can face serious penalties, including jail time, license revocation, fines, community service, and treatment programs. A local DUI attorney can provide an effective defense, which is critical in mitigating or even eliminating the consequences you face.

Here are only some of the valuable contributions of a DUI defense attorney:

  • Legal Advice: A DUI attorney has extensive experience in dealing with these charges. They can inform you about the charges, possible penalties, and rights you have during the defense process.
  • Overseeing the Criminal Justice Process: A DUI defense attorney will handle all the legal aspects of your case. They will represent you at court appearances, plea negotiations, and trials. They will also handle all communications with the prosecutor, judges, and other officers.
  • Facilitate a Positive Outcome: A DUI lawyer knows how to identify the best defense strategy for each case. They can identify key areas for defense and mitigating factors that can lead to reduced charges or dismissal.
  • Getting Your License Back: Your license is suspended after an arrest related to a DUI charge. An experienced attorney can represent you during a DMV hearing by presenting evidence demonstrating why your license shouldn’t be revoked or suspended. Your lawyer must request this hearing right away, so don’t delay in taking action.

What is the cost of hiring a DUI attorney in Colorado?

Here are some possible fees associated with a DUI charge:

Court Fees and Fines

Court fines depend on the DUI charge level—for example, $600 to $1,000 for the first DUI offense. There is an additional court fee of approximately $50. Sometimes, the court may require you to pay extra fees as part of the contribution to the victim’s compensation.

Bail and Bond Fees

The bail and bond fee for a DUI arrest might range between $1,000 and $5,000, with jail booking costs ranging from $30 to $100, depending on the length of the jail term.

Car Towing and Impoundment Fees

If arrested for a DUI charge, your vehicle may be towed and stored until release. Although the costs may vary, expect to pay $150-200 for towing fees. Additional charges may apply depending on the vehicle’s weight. Impoundment costs may cover your ‘scar storage, ranging from $50 to $100 per day.

Ignition Interlock Device Fees

Any DUI offender looking to reinstate their license early must drive with an ignition interlock device. The installation cost can range from $50 to $150, with an additional monthly fee for maintenance, monitoring, and leasing. A removal fee of between $50 and $150 may apply after completing the program.

Restitution Costs

The court may order a DUI offender to pay restitution charges to the victim. These charges can range between $125 and $175, depending on the county where the conviction occurred.

Probation Costs

A DUI offender may be required to pay probation costs to cater for the expenses incurred by the probation department. Monthly probation costs range from $600-1200 unless the court lowers the amount depending on your financial situation.

Alcohol Treatment Program

Depending on your offense, the court may require you to undertake an alcohol treatment program. For instance, a first DUI offender must participate in a level 1 alcohol treatment program. An inpatient treatment program may cost up to $15,000, while an outpatient program may cost $5,000.

License Reinstatement Fees

You may be eligible for license reinstatement after your license suspension period. Applicants must pay a reinstatement fee of $95 to the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles, along with proof of liability insurance.

Insurance Rate Hikes

A DUI charge leads to an insurance premium increment. The national average increase in DUI insurance is 65%, with 34% in Colorado. A DUI offense can affect your insurance for 7 years, depending on how far an insurer evaluates your driving record.

Factors Influencing Attorney Fees

Here are a few factors that affect how much a DUI attorney charges:

Attorney’s Experience and Reputation

A highly experienced attorney might charge higher fees because of their extensive knowledge, strong reputation, and proven track record of successful outcomes.

Geographical Location

Attorneys who operate in bigger markets may charge higher fees to cover the corresponding high cost of doing business.

Case Complexity

An attorney spends more time and resources in a complex case while creating and implementing a defense strategy.

Minimizing DUI Lawyer Costs & Other DUI-Related Fees

Here are a few helpful tips:

  • Reach a Plea Bargain: Ask your attorney if they can negotiate a lesser charge or penalties, which can avoid trial and substantially reduce the eventual cost of the case
  • Read the Attorney-Client Fee Agreement: If there is a fee provision you don’t agree with, you can try to negotiate it.

While DUI defense lawyer fees might seem steep, it is worth it for an attorney to minimize your long-term consequences of a DUI case.

How Much Do We Charge?

The cost varies depending on the severity and number of charges in your case. In most cases, we offer a multiple stage flat fee arrangement, where you only pay for each stage as it’s reached. For more serious felonies, we charge by the hour. We require a retainer (down payment) and typically offer monthly payment plans to cover the remaining balance.

Get in Touch With a Trusted DUI Attorney in Greeley, Co.

A DUI charge can have a significant financial implication on your life. You should always work with an attorney who is transparent about their fees to minimize the cost of your defense.

McAdams Law Office is a trusted defense attorney in Colorado known for our effective defense approach. Contact us online or at 970-353-0000 for a free consultation.

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This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partiner, William McAdams who has more than 25 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.