Cost of DUI Attorney
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Understanding the Cost of a DUI Attorney in Utah
In the state of Utah, few actions have as severe consequences as a DUI. Facing a DUI charge can mean losing your license, paying hefty fines, and possibly even jail time. Without a proper defense, it's impossible to win a DUI case. You need an educated and experienced DUI lawyer that can help you navigate the legal processes of DUIs in Utah and build a strong DUI defense.
Though the cost of a DUI attorney may seem like an excess expense in the face of your DUI charge, it is often a necessary investment to secure your future. Seeking legal advice from an experienced DUI attorney could mean the difference between winning and losing your DUI case.
"I learned a lot by talking to this attorney."
Branson West Law is experienced with the following areas of driving under the influence cases:
How Long can a DUI Case Last?
Generally speaking, a DUI trial may last between three to five days, but a DUI case can easily stay open for 6 to 12 months. If you’re facing especially severe DUI charges or have been charged with a Felony DUI, the complexity and duration of your case will escalate further. This is a daunting amount of time to spend defending yourself alone. Hiring an experienced DUI attorney to represent you takes that burden from your shoulders and places you in the hands of someone who understands the rules of court.
Why Is It Important to Seek Help From A DUI Attorney?
If you're facing a DUI charge and wondering if you should get an attorney for a DUI, the answer is yes. Although you have the option to represent yourself during your trial, this is strongly advised against. In the state of Utah, a DUI charge carries heavy fines and lasting consequences. The justice system was designed to prosecute criminals and, without proper and professional defense, you will be found guilty.
There are various reasons for hiring a competent DUI lawyer, the most prominent being that it is difficult to defend yourself. The cost of a DUI attorney in Utah is nearly a fraction of the lifelong repercussions you face if found guilty of a DUI charge. A skilled DUI attorney may not be able to get your case entirely dismissed, but they might be able to get your charges reduced and your sentence shortened.
What Other Factors Can Determine The Price?
The average cost of a DUI attorney can range from $1,500 to $5,000. Most attorneys will charge either a flat fee (calculated by an estimation of the amount of time and effort required for your case) or an hourly fee. Other factors can also determine the price of a criminal defense attorney, such as:
Prior DUI Charges
While the list of potential consequences of a first offense DUI charge is already extensive, charges of fines and jail sentences increase with second and third offenses. This may drive up the price of your attorney, as the trial preparations will be more laborious.
- For first-time offenders, possible charges include up to 6 months in jail and $1,850 in fines. Your license may be suspended and the judge may demand an ignition interlock device is placed in your car.
- For second-time offenders, you will likely be charged with up to 6 months in jail, $1,850 in fines, and a possible license suspension of 2 years along with an ignition interlock device. The judge may decree supervised probation.
- For a Felony DUI, the charges increase to up to 5 years in prison and $9,250 in fines. Suspension of driver's license for two years, probation, ignition interlock, and up to 5 years of addiction treatment might also be included.
Level of Experience
An attorney’s fees can vary depending upon their skill, background and reputation. The level of experience provided by an experienced criminal defense attorney is your most valuable asset in court. As a DUI carries life-changing consequences, it's best to partner with someone who has the experience to win your case.
The Severity
If your case is severe, you’ll find yourself facing extreme charges and the possibility of jail time. This will likely lengthen your trial for more days than the average case. It will also increase the final cost, as the time and effort required by your attorney in preparation for trial will intensify to ensure your continued freedom.
Trial vs. Plea Bargain
The fees of a DUI attorney are often lower in cases that end with a plea bargain than in cases that go to trial. The benefits of negotiating a plea may include a lighter sentence, lesser charges and a faster process.
Get the Help You Need with Branson West Law
The cost of a DUI attorney in Utah may have you weighing your options, but the potential damages a DUI charge can have on your future and your finances are far more worrisome. DUIs are taken very seriously in the state of Utah, and fines are heavy. You deserve a knowledgeable DUI attorney that will fight for you and alleviate your stress during this difficult experience.
Branson West Law has handled thousands of Utah DUI cases in Salt Lake City and the local court systems. He knows Utah's judges, and he knows the prosecutors who handle the DUI cases in Utah. Most of all, he knows how to defend you against DUI charges successfully. With the assistance of a trusted professional like Branson, you can build a solid defense. Don’t let one mistake ruin your life — contact us now for expert advice.
