Each day in the United States, 30 people die from drunk-driving crashes. When you get caught drunk driving, there are extreme consequences because of the possible damage you could cause. To help with the legal process, it is necessary to hire a DWI attorney.
How much does a DWI lawyer cost? Read on to find out.
Factors Impacting DWI Lawyer Cost
The cost of a DWI lawyer depends on certain factors. However, this is not a price you cannot get around if you get charged with driving while intoxicated. You will need a lawyer.
If you have never had to hire a DWI attorney, the process may get confusing. The total legal bill will depend on the billing method of the lawyer, the billing rate, any additional legal expenses, and how long the case takes to resolve.
The billing method and the billing rate are going to influence DWI lawyer prices the most. The two billing methods are hourly fees and flat fees.
An hourly fee, or hourly rate, gets paid by the hour, hence the name. You pay the attorney based on the amount of time they spend on the case. If the case takes longer, you end up paying more.
A flat rate is a one-time payment for the lawyer’s time, no matter how long the case takes. Yet, the lawyer of your choosing may have one fee if you plea guilty and another if you decide to take the case to trial.
While your charges are pending, you don’t have time to consider too many lawyers. The rates tend to be competitive so the prices may be ever-changing.
A DWI attorney may allow you to negotiate fees. Before hiring a lawyer, these negotiations should take place. After hiring, it is too late to do so.
Other Legal Expenses
Knowing how much is a DWI lawyer is essential when you get charged, but there are other expenses to consider. Related legal expenses you may be required to pay include an investigator’s time, a paralegal’s time, photocopying, expert witness fees, and any travel-related expenses.
Depending on the state you were charged in, you may have to pay extra fees if you are found guilty. Some states even have other criminal court fees you must pay.
Questions to Ask a Prospective Attorney
Hiring a DWI attorney is not one size fits all. DWI lawyer fees can vary tremendously so it is important to ask the right questions. Some helpful questions are:
- Do you charge an hourly rate or a flat rate?
- What is your specific rate?
- What does the rate include?
- What will I have to pay for separately?
- Can I get an estimate of the legal expenses?
- How and when do I pay?
- Can I negotiate a fee?
These questions will help you determine the total cost to hire a DWI lawyer.
DWI Lawyer Cost Explained
When you have been charged with driving while intoxicated, a criminal accusation is brought unto you by the state. There are different levels of charge, but they all have major consequences. This is why it is essential to understand the DWI lawyer costs so that you can hire one right away.
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