The True Cost of a First DUI
Reviewed by Michael P. Maddux, Esq. | Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer | Florida Super Lawyer for 16 Consecutive Years
The true cost of a first DUI conviction in Florida can be far more expensive than many people expect. The financial impact goes well beyond court fines and penalties.
What a First DUI Conviction Actually Costs
When you add together court costs, DUI school, license reinstatement fees, possible ignition interlock device costs, higher insurance premiums, and attorney fees, the total expense of a first DUI can often reach $4,000 to $12,000 or more.
One of the most significant long-term costs is car insurance. After a DUI conviction, drivers are typically required to carry FR-44 high-risk insurance, often with coverage limits of 100/300/50. This requirement can cause insurance premiums to double or even triple, sometimes increasing by $2,000 to $5,000 per year.
Because FR-44 insurance requirements can remain in place for several years, the financial impact of a first DUI conviction can continue long after the court case ends.
Working with an experienced DUI defense attorney can help protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and potentially reduce the long-term consequences of a DUI charge. If you’re facing a DUI charge, our office can help.