For people who have been convicted of a DUI, they know the consequences and fees associated with it: Jail, fines, suspension and the revocation of driving privileges. However, DUI’s have many other expenses that most people don’t know about. The unspoken costs of a DUI conviction can range from freedom to money to the very right to travel.
Here are possible or mandatory consequences:
In the past ten years, most states have added DUI school as a mandatory part of sentencing. There is a First Conviction Program (FCP) for first time DUI’s and a Multiple Conviction Program (MCP) for people who have been arrested for DUI before. The cost of this school may be from $100 to $400, and if you show up for the class under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you will be dismissed from the course and have to pay the fee and begin the course again.
Another common DUI consequence in California is attendance at a “MADD” (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) meeting. This is a sobering meeting with the victims of drunk drivers and/or the families of victims.
Convictions may also sometimes include a Ignition Interlock Device (IID) to be placed into your car. This is a portable breathalyzer which attaches to your vehicle and prevents the car from starting unless you test under .02 blood alcohol.
Then there is also the “Public Service Program”, also referred to as “Public Work Service.” The amount of days assigned to someone is based on the BAL they had while driving.
Jail time! Mainly for people having been convicted of a DUI previously, there is mandatory jail time.
The costs involved:
Estimated costs include:
- Attorney fees could range $1500 to $10,000, or more if there is a jury trial or appeal.
- Fines and court fees could be from $515 to $ 8,125.
- Civil Suits could be placed against a drunk driver causing injury to someone else and the price of this could be unlimitied.
- Electronic Home Monitoring = $150 to $ 2,250 or more.
- Time lost from work because of court, programs and community service= $750 to $10,000.
- License reinstatement fee at the DMV is $150.
- Ignition Interlock Device could cost someone $730 to $ 2,800 with monthly calibration and rental fees.
- Alcohol Treatment =$1,500 to $ 20,000.
- Insurance= $1,800 to $3,000 additional premium added because of the conviction.
- Towing charges $50 to $400
Other consequences of DUI’s do not have to do with money. Many automobile rental agencies will not want your business after you are convicted. If you are convicted, you may not be able to obtain life insurance at any price. In addition, many health insurance companies will “rate” you, charge you an extra premium, or deny you coverage.
A DUI conviction may even prevent you from traveling to some countries. Some countries will refuse entry to anyone with a criminal record. Although some countries only count felonies, there are others, including Canada, that count all criminal convictions, including DUI as a basis for exclusion from the country.
Additionally, some employers will not higher anyone with a misdemeanor, but more specifically, a DUI on their record.
As time progresses, punishments get even more strict for DUI convictions. The future includes higher fines and costs, and mandatory jail in many states. If you are arrested for DUI, the additional cost of having an attorney who has years of DUI experience may more than pay for itself, if it means fighting the charge, minimizing punishments, and possibly avoiding a conviction all together.Call my office at 619-238-1905 for a free 30 minute consultation.
