The True Cost of a DUI Conviction

Chicago DUI Lawyer

In the state of Illinois, driving under the influence is an extremely expensive crime. If you are convicted of DUI, you can expect to pay thousands in various court fees and criminal fines. Illinois is one of the few states that require every individual who is convicted of a DUI to have a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) installed on his or her car as soon as driving privileges are reinstated.

According to the 2010 DUI Fact Book that is compiled by the Illinois Secretary of State, the breakdown of the average total cost of a first time DUI offense is as follows:

Criminal Fine $2,500
Towing $250
Court Costs $500
Trauma Center Fund $100
Increased Insurance for Three Years $4,500
Substance Abuse Class $50
Alcohol Counseling $200
Driver's License Reinstatement $500
Administrative Hearing Court Costs $50
New License $30
BAIID Installation $100
BAIID Monitoring Fee for One Year $360
BAIID Rental Fee for One Year $960
Average Lost Income $4,000
Total Cost $14,100

In addition, you will also have to pay legal fees, you may have out-of-pocket medical and property damage expenses, you may be required to attend and pay for in-patient substance abuse treatment, if you are placed on probation, you will have to pay probation fees, and you may also be sued in a personal injury suit and held liable for the victims' damages. It is also important to note that the price of a DUI will drastically increase if this is not a first offense or if it is an aggravated DUI charge.

Searching for a DUI Attorney in Chicago?

The Law Offices of Mitch Furman has been protecting the rights of the accused for over a decade. If you or someone you know has been arrested for DUI take immediate legal action before it is too late. Contact me, Mitch Furman, if you have been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

An experienced Chicago DUI attorney at my firm may be able to help you avoid paying the high price of a DUI. Contact us today.