Fee Type: Flat fee |
Typical Range: $2,500 – $15,000 |
Retainer: N/A (flat fee)
How San Diego DUI Defense Attorneys Charge
First-offense misdemeanor DUI: $2,500–$7,500. Felony DUI/DUI with injury: $10,000–$25,000+.
California-Specific Considerations
DMV APS hearing (critical — file within 10 days) is often $500–$1,500 separate. California State Bar fee guidelines apply. San Diego County DUI attorneys average $4,500 for first offense.
Fee Structure Details
| Item | Details |
|---|
| Fee type | Flat fee |
| Typical cost range | $2,500 – $15,000 |
| Retainer / upfront | N/A (flat fee) |
| Key statute | Vehicle Code §23152 |
Factors That Affect Your Cost
- Prior DUI convictions within 10 years
- BAC level (0.15%+ = enhanced penalties)
- Whether accident or injury occurred
- CDL holder (career at stake)
- Drug DUI vs alcohol DUI
- Case going to jury trial
Free Consultation Policy
Most San Diego DUI Defense attorneys who work on contingency offer a free initial consultation. For hourly-billing attorneys (family law, business, estate planning), consultations typically cost $150–$350. Always confirm the consultation fee before scheduling. Bring any relevant documents — contracts, police reports, medical records, or demand letters — to maximize the value of your consultation.
How to Evaluate an Attorney's Quote
When comparing San Diego DUI Defense attorneys, ask these questions:
- Is this a flat fee or an estimate? What triggers additional fees?
- What exactly is included — all court appearances? Expert witnesses?
- Who specifically will handle my case — you or a junior associate?
- What is your billing cycle for hourly work?
- Is the retainer refundable if my case resolves quickly?
- What are the likely total costs including court filing fees?
Verify First: Always confirm any San Diego attorney's license at
calbar.ca.gov and check for any disciplinary history before hiring.
How much does a San Diego DUI Defense attorney cost?
First-offense misdemeanor DUI: $2,500–$7,500. Felony DUI/DUI with injury: $10,000–$25,000+.
Do San Diego DUI Defense attorneys offer free consultations?
Many San Diego DUI Defense attorneys offer a free initial consultation, particularly for contingency-fee cases. For hourly-fee cases, consultations typically cost $150–$350. Always confirm before scheduling.
Is it worth hiring a DUI Defense attorney in San Diego?
For most DUI Defense cases, yes. Represented clients typically achieve better outcomes — higher settlements, reduced charges, or faster resolution — than unrepresented individuals. The cost of an attorney is usually less than the cost of a poor outcome. Many DUI Defense attorneys offer free consultations so you can evaluate whether representation makes sense for your specific situation.
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