what should i pay for a michigan dui lawyer

by Jenifer Shields 8 min read

Thus, a fair and reasonable 1st offense price range goes from $2500 to $3500. In a 2nd offense DUI case, the stakes are much higher, and some of these cases can wind up getting transferred to one of the growing number of local “Sobriety Courts.” I would be concerned about any fee under $3000.

Hiring a lawyer is the most critical aspect of any DUI case, but also can result in a substantial cost. On average, a DUI defense lawyer will cost anywhere between $1,000 and $25,000 for defense throughout your case, depending on the quality of the lawyer and complexity of your case.

Full Answer

How much does a DUI in Michigan cost?

The penalties for being convicted of a DUI in Michigan can be very costly and expensive. The fines and penalties imposed by the Court for a first offense are $100 to $500 and $200 to $1,000 for a second or third offense.

Should I get a lawyer for my first DUI Michigan?

First-time offenders typically do not face penalties that are as harsh as those for repeat offenders; however a conviction will result in fines, driver's license suspension, and other penalties. For the best possible result, it is important you speak with a skilled and aggressive criminal defense attorney.

How much is first offense DUI Michigan?

Michigan Penalties for DUI Offenses OWI, First Offense - up to 93 days in jail, fines of $100 to $500, 360 hours (45 days) community service, vehicle immobilization at the court's discretion, possible ignition interlock device during probation.

How much does a DUI cost?

If you want an estimate, the total DUI ticket cost may reach nearly $20,000, depending on the severity of the offense. In general, a DUI may cost you anywhere between $10,000 to $30,000 when you add up all the fees and fines.Aug 21, 2021

How long is probation for a first DUI conviction in Michigan?

Commonly the period of probation for a first offense drunk driving charge is one year. Some judges will consider early discharge from probation where the offender has been completely compliant and completed all of the terms imposed by the Court as part of the Judgment of Sentence.

Do you lose your license for first DUI in Michigan?

Michigan's anti-drunk and drugged driving laws require swift and sure action and stiff penalties for drivers who violated them. The laws require: Courts to decide drunk driving and drugged driving cases within 77 days after the arrest. A mandatory 6-month driver license suspension, even for a first conviction.

How long does a DUI stay on your record in Michigan?

In Michigan, any conviction of drunk/drugged driving will remain on both your criminal record and driving record for life. If you are convicted of second DUI within seven years of your first offense, you will face an enhanced sentence including revocation of your driving privileges.

Can you avoid jail time for first DUI?

In many states, you can avoid jail time for a standard first DUI. But if you have prior DUI convictions or the current offense involves certain aggravating factors, the likelihood of spending at least some time in jail goes up.

Is a DUI a felony in Michigan?

Michigan takes DUI very seriously and has strong legal consequences for convicted offenders. Normally DUI's are charged as misdemeanors, with more serious or repeat offenders being charged with felony.Nov 2, 2020

How much do DUI classes cost?

How much are DUI classes and who pays?DUI Program DurationCost12-hour program$200 – $3003-month program$450 – $5506-month program$750 – $9509-month program$1,000 – $1,2502 more rows

Will a DUI disqualify you from the Air Force?

Officially, you are not allowed to join the military if you have any kind of DUI conviction on your record. This is true for all branches of the United States Armed Forces.

What percent of drivers tested positive for drug impairment according to the Nhtsa?

20 percentIt's Illegal NHTSA's National Roadside Survey conducted in 2013-2014 (PDF, 173 KB) found that 20 percent of surveyed drivers tested positive for potentially impairing drugs.

Hiring the Right Michigan DUI Lawyer

If you have been released from DUI custody and have a date schedule for your next court appearance, the police agencies and court system will be busy preparing your paperwork, determining your proper charge, and getting ready for your initial arraignment date, which is typically either printed or handwritten on your original ticket.

Self Representation

If you try to handle this case on your own, you run the risk of being subjected to the maximum consequences for your action. You may feel that you deserve this due to your stupid actions that night, your embarrassment, and the scorn of friends and family. However, you have many rights in your DUI case as we have laid out in this handbook.

The Public Defender

The problem with a court appointed DUI Lawyer is that many court systems will NOT appoint an attorney to represent you on a first offense drunk driving case. Why? Because there is typically not any jail time ordered for a first offender.

Why Should I Hire a Michigan DUI Lawyer?

You and your family must weigh all of the options when deciding whether or not to hire an attorney to protect your interests. A privately retained lawyer will be best suited to answer all of your questions, make sure you are protected at every hearing, and maximize your outcome in accordance with Michigan DUI laws.

Can I hire a lawyer with a license?

Technically, you can hire any lawyer with a license to practice law. However, criminal attornies with training, knowledge, and experience in DUI cases are where you want to narrow down your search.

Can you hire a DUI lawyer in Detroit?

You can hire the best DUI lawyer in Detroit, but if they have a history of malpractice or have at one time been sanctioned by the State Bar, it could hurt your case. Judges don’t take too kindly to lawyers with poor ethical records.

Does hiring a criminal defense lawyer make you a criminal?

Hiring a criminal defense lawyer doesn’t make you a criminal. It makes you informed and prepared to handle your offense. Without representation, you could be facing hefty fines and jail time for your DUI charges.

Should I Get A Lawyer For My First DUI?

Driving under the influence is a serious offense. Nevertheless, at The Lockwood Legal Group, we occasionally hear from people who question whether they need a lawyer if this is their first time arrested for a DUI.

Did You Take a Roadside Chemical Test?

In addition to any court-ordered suspension, if you refused a chemical test after being stopped, then you will become subject to a one-year suspension associated with the refusal. It will be very difficult to get to work and meet other responsibilities without your license, so you would benefit from a lawyer’s assistance.

Do You Understand How a Conviction Will Affect Subsequent Convictions?

You should always try to keep any and all DUIs off your record. Once you receive an initial conviction, you will face greater punishment for any subsequent DUIs, including, but not limited to:

Did Someone Become Injured in the Accident?

If you injure someone while driving intoxicated, you will face much more severe punishments. Regardless of whether this is your first DUI or not.

Getting a DUI In Michigan

This article details what happens if you get a DUI in Indiana. However, attorneys at The Lockwood Legal Group also practice law in Michigan. Thus, if you have obtained a DUI in Michigan, contact The Lockwood Legal Group by phone or email.

Assistance With Substance Abuse

If you are in need of substance abuse treatment, attorneys at The Lockwood Legal Group can assist you in obtaining help.

Speak with an Indiana DUI Attorney Today

An initial arrest for DUI is a very serious event, but you do have options for contesting the charge. At The Lockwood Legal Group, we represent drivers arrested for DUI, and we are here to help you.

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