Criminal defense
How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost?
Last updated June 16, 2026
A first-offense DUI lawyer often costs $1,500–$5,000 flat; repeat or felony DUIs and trials cost more. Here's what DUI defense really costs and what the fee does and doesn't include.
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- First-offense misdemeanor DUI: often a flat fee around $1,500–$5,000.
- Repeat or felony DUI: frequently $5,000–$15,000+.
- Taking the case to trial (instead of a plea) raises the cost substantially.
- Quoted fees often exclude DMV license hearings, expert/lab fees, and court costs.
- A public defender is available if you qualify financially.
First offense vs. repeat or felony
A first-offense misdemeanor DUI is usually quoted as a flat fee, because the path is relatively predictable. Repeat DUIs, or felony DUIs involving injury or high BAC, cost more — there's more at stake, more investigation, and a higher chance of trial. The more serious the exposure, the wider the fee range.
What the fee does and doesn't include
- Usually included: arraignment, plea negotiation, standard court appearances.
- Often extra: the DMV/BMV license-suspension hearing (a separate proceeding).
- Often extra: expert witnesses, independent blood/breath-test analysis.
- Often extra: trial fees if the case doesn't resolve in a plea.
- Always ask for the scope in writing before you pay.
Is it worth it?
A DUI affects your license, insurance, and criminal record for years, so most people weigh the fee against those stakes. Whatever you decide, confirm the lawyer's license and disciplinary standing before hiring — price tells you nothing about their record.
attorney records across 45 states are searchable on this site right now.
Source: official state bar registration rosters.
Frequently asked questions
Is a DUI lawyer worth it for a first offense?
Many people think so given the license, insurance, and record consequences a DUI carries — but it depends on your case and budget. A first offense is also where a public defender or a flat-fee private lawyer is most affordable.
Does the DUI lawyer's fee include the DMV hearing?
Often not. The license-suspension hearing is a separate administrative proceeding, and many attorneys quote it as an add-on. Confirm what's included before you sign.
What's the difference between a flat fee and hourly for a DUI?
A flat fee covers the case (or a defined stage) for one price — common for first-offense DUIs. Hourly billing tracks actual time and is more common for repeat or felony DUIs likely to go to trial.
Related guides
- How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
- What Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Do?
- Can a DUI Be Expunged?
Numbers on this page are computed from official rosters — see our data sources & methodology. This guide is part of the understanding the legal system series.
This site republishes official public records and is not legal advice, a lawyer referral service, or a consumer reporting agency. Information here may not be used to make decisions about employment, tenancy, or credit (FCRA). Records are shown as published by their official sources and may contain errors or be out of date; consult the linked official source to verify. To correct or dispute a record, contact the licensing authority of record.