How Much Does a DUI Cost in Southern California?

The average cost of a DUI conviction in Southern California can reach well into the thousands of dollars. DUIs are one of the most expensive misdemeanors you can commit in the Los Angeles area. Even when a DUI is “simple”—with no injury or deaths involved—a DUI is never a straightforward matter. 

Before you decide to pay the fine and try to move on, it helps to speak with an experienced Los Angeles DUI lawyer to understand exactly what you are up against. You can call or complete our online contact form to get connected to a local attorney and learn more.

A Breakdown of Basic Costs for a First-Time DUI

If you are arrested for a first DUI offense in California with no injuries, deaths, or property damage, the expenses are still staggering: one conviction in Southern California can cost you as much as $15,649 or more over time.

Here is a breakdown of the basic fines and costs you will face:

Generally, this is the average cost you could face if you are found guilty. Some of these expenses will depend on your case or vary slightly depending on your county.

So, how much does a DUI cost in Southern California? While approximately $15,000 covers the minimum range of your costs, they can far exceed this amount. It is essential to speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after your arrest to minimize these fees.

A Cost Breakdown of a DUI Conviction

Criminal defense lawyers can help you understand the details and the purpose of the various court and DMV costs. Many of the fines and expenses associated with a DUI are shrouded in legal language. Here’s a simple explanation of each of the numbers.

Minimum Court Fine

Fines for DUI cases start at a few hundred dollars and can increase to several thousand, especially if you have past convictions on your criminal record. Criminal fines ordered by the judge can increase DUI costs.

Court Penalties

Administrative assessments reflect the cost the local court bears in handling the DUI case. The person charged with DUI pays the costs instead of the taxpayers.

Booking Fees

Police also charge convicts for booking fees and administrative costs. The booking fee includes the cost of recording fingerprints as well as a photography fee for the mug shot.

Vehicle Towing and Impound Fees

Impound costs will vary by location, as well as by how far law enforcement must tow your vehicle and how long you leave it in the impound lot. It also includes Police Garage fees and release fees.

Victim Restitution Fund Costs

Everyone who receives a DUI conviction must pay money into the state’s Restitution Recovery Program for victims, which provides money to compensate crime victims, even if your DUI hurts no one.

DUI School Fees

Your financial costs may include the fees necessary to attend court-ordered DUI school after a drunk driving conviction.

License Reinstatement Fee

The court can suspend your license or issue you a restricted license as part of your DUI sentence. You must go to the DMV and apply for a license reinstatement, which carries a $125 reissue fee ($100 for drivers under 21).

Because you must deal with both the court system and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) separately, there is another layer of expenses you may not have considered.

Car Insurance Increase

A DUI conviction nearly always raises your car insurance rates. The exact cost varies individually, but a typical increase is $84 a month. It is often much higher for a driver under 21.

Bail Bond Cost

Most first-time DUI offenses do not require bail. If yours does, you will likely need to take out a bail bond (loan) to cover it, and the $2,500 cost reflects the 10% fee you’ll pay on a $25,000 bail bond.

You May Need to Pay for an Ignition Interlock Device

Ignition interlock devices (IIDs) are used following your conviction for a DUI. They are mandatory to avoid a license suspension, and you must provide proof of installation by an authorized company to the court.

An average IID installation in California costs between $75 and $100, and the monthly fee ranges from $70 to $100. You must also pay to have the device calibrated every 60 days or risk fines for failure to meet the requirements set by law.

The total cost can add up to several thousand dollars, even for a first-time DUI conviction, depending on how long you must keep the device installed. Second, third, and subsequent offenses require extended periods, increasing the costs substantially.

Additional Costs of a DUI

On top of the direct costs of a conviction, the additional penalties you may face can come with their own expenses. If you cannot drive because of a suspended license or a jail sentence, you could lose wages from your job. Your boss may even fire you if you miss enough time or your employer has a strict policy against convictions.

In addition, your car stays impounded until you have an IID installed, so you must pay for alternative transportation.

An important cost you need to consider is the price of a lawsuit to defend yourself. Prosecuting attorneys try DUI cases every day and know the best ways to secure convictions. You should contact a criminal defense law firm that can help you understand where to begin to fight a DUI and the legal costs involved, including attorney fees.

A DUI Lawyer Can Help You Avoid a Costly DUI Conviction

How much does a DUI cost in Southern California? Even as a first-time offender, you could end up paying thousands of dollars and facing other severe consequences, like points on your driving record, suspension of your driving privileges, and jail time.

At Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, we can help connect you with an experienced attorney who can develop defense strategies to help you avoid a conviction.

If the police arrest you for a DUI, don’t wait until the bills are piling up. Hiring a knowledgeable Los Angeles DUI lawyer is critical for reducing your financial burden and achieving the best result for your case. Contact us today using our online contact form for your free consultation.