Though driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a fairly common offense, the consequences of a DWI charge can be serious. In Minnesota, DWI or DUI (driving under the influence) is punishable with possible jail time, house arrest (Electronic home monitoring), community service, and fines. The accused may also suffer other effects such as losing their driver’s license, license plate impoundment, vehicle forfeiture, and increases in insurance costs. This is why it can be crucial and cheaper in the long run to have a DWI defense attorney.
How much does a DUI defense lawyer cost in Minnesota? There is no uniform fee for defense attorneys, but to help you know what to expect, here’s an overview of DUI lawyer pricing in MN.
Why Hiring a DWI Lawyer Can Save Money
Many people think hiring a lawyer is too much of an expense. In reality, a competent defense attorney can protect one from incurring much bigger expenses that come with DWI charges. Consider these costly direct and indirect possible consequences of a DUI conviction in Minnesota:
- Jail time or prison in a felony DWI case
- Large fines and court costs/fees
- License revocation for between 30 days and 3 years or longer, depending on the level of offense, blood alcohol concentration level, and number of priors
- Required substance abuse courses or treatment
- Installation of ignition interlock device in your car 1 year to 3 years or longer (paid for by the accused)
- Lost work days, potentially leading to lost job
These consequences can greatly impact one’s finances in the present and well into the future. With the help of an experienced defense attorney, a person may lessen that impact through possibly dismissed charges, skilled negotiation, and favorable plea bargains.
What is the Average Cost of a DUI Lawyer?
Some estimates say that the national average cost of a DUI lawyer is between $2,000 and $3,000. Others believe it’s closer to $5,000 to $8,000. However, these averages are not reliable forecasts for how much a particular DWI case will cost. Each case is unique, with factors that can greatly affect the fees involved. In Minnesota, for example, it’s not uncommon for DUI legal fees to exceed $10,000, though many other cases incur much lower costs.
What Factors Affect the DWI Attorney Cost?
How simple or complex the case is
Most attorneys in DWI cases charge a one-time, fixed fee (also referred to as a “flat” fee) that is based on the attorney’s experience in handling similar types of matters, the complexity of the case, and his or her assessment of the work that may be required.
Attorney’s experience and reputation
Defense lawyers who are more experienced are able to charge higher rates because their years of practice can work as an advantage for their clients. Similarly, lawyers who have a stellar reputation may also charge higher fees due to their being in-demand.
Contact DUI Defense Attorney Jeff Dean
It can be daunting to hire a defense lawyer – you want to protect your freedom, but you also don’t want to waste your money. For DWI or DUI charges in Minnesota, trust Attorney Jeff Dean. With over 26 years of experience, Mr. Dean has obtained excellent outcomes in numerous cases.
Talk to Jeff Dean about the DUI or DWI charges you’re facing. Call (612) 805-6916 today.
