DUI Fines

DUI fines are one part of the penalty that an offender may face if convicted of driving under the influence. The amount of the fine is determined through the court system, and is determined by the jurisdiction where the crime was committed as well as the facts of the case. DUI fines are meant to punish the defendant while deterring him or her from committing a similar crime again.

There are several other consequences a defendant may face if convicted of drunk driving, such as jail time, probation, community service, and a driver's license suspension. The judge may also sentence the defendant to attend DUI school, drug and alcohol treatment, or perform community service. These requirements increase the amount that the defendant will have to pay; however, completion of some programs may lead to a reduction in court-imposed DUI fines.

There are several factors that can lead to enhanced DUI penalties and fines. Defendants who were traveling at excessive speeds, had a child in the vehicle at the time of the stop, had a very high blood alcohol content (BAC), or who caused an accident may have to pay higher fines. In some states, DUI fines may reach up to $15,000 for a driver who has a prior DUI conviction.

When looking at the cost of the DUI, the defendant must also consider the cost of the legal proceedings and the money it takes to hire a good defense attorney, plus the court fines.

In addition to DUI fines, the defendant's insurance premiums may also rise after his or her insurance company discovers that there is a DUI conviction on his or her record, if the insurance company does not drop the coverage altogether. The defendant's DMV records are also available to potential employers, which may decrease his or her chance at finding future employment.

If you have been charged with drunk driving, it is in your best interest to hire an experienced defense attorney. DUI attorneys keep current on the drinking and driving laws in your area, and may be able to have your DUI fines and other penalties reduced.