The cost of a DUI conviction in Arizona can be expensive. Fines, court costs, and legal fees can add up quickly.
But, getting convicted of a DUI in Arizona has a lot more costs associated with it than just the fines and court fees. If you are facing DUI charges, you might be wondering what the total costs including everything from increased insurance premiums to towing fees.
In this article, we’ll go over all of the potential costs associated with a DUI conviction in Arizona.
How much does a DUI Cost in Arizona?
If you are charged with a DUI in Arizona, you should expect costs typically amount to anywhere between $7000 to $11,000 or more for a first-time regular DUI. Cost for an Extreme DUI or Super-Extreme DUI are higher even still.
Typical Drunk Driving Costs
Arizona’s DUI laws breakdown the fines and fees into payments to various funds, which total around $1500 for a first-time regular DUI offense (Extreme and Supreme Extreme DUIs will be more expensive). Alcohol classes are also usually required, which can amount to roughly $500. In addition to these classes, you will likely also be required to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle for a year, which totals about $1000.
The MVD will also charge you certain fees because your license is suspended, and you will be also charged a fee to get your license reinstated.
Finally, the other large cost will come from your insurance premiums. In order to reinstate your license, you will need to show proof to the MVD of SR-22 insurance, which you will typically need to pay for up to 3 years. In addition, you can expect to see a premium increase on your auto insurance. In Arizona, this typically amounts to a premium hike of $2000 per year for at least 3 years.
Here’s a breakdown of the complete cost of a DUI:
- $489 fine and surcharge
- $500 Prison Fund Assessment
- $500 Public Safety Fund Assessment
- $4 Peace Officer Training Equipment Fund Assessment
- $500 Alcohol Screening classes
- $300 in jail costs for 1 day in jail
- $1000 for 12-month installation of Ignition Interlock Device
- $500 for vehicle impound and towing
- $10 license reinstatement fee
- $1000 to $3000 yearly insurance premium hike (for at least 3 years)
Total costs: Approximately $7000 – $11,000.
And these are only the costs associated with a first-time regular DUI (BAC of 0.08 or impaired to the slightest degree). Costs for an Extreme or Super-Extreme DUI are higher still.
Is it Worth It to Hire a DUI Lawyer?
With all the costs associated with a DUI, you might be wondering if it is also worthwhile to hire an attorney. The above estimate does not include the cost of representation. However, between the costs and the jails time associated with a DUI, quality representation is well worth it.
An experienced DUI attorney can determine whether your case may be reduced to a lower charge or whether legal or factual issues provide a basis to have your charge dismissed entirely.
If you’ve been arrested for a DUI, there is hope! Call the Salwin Law Group today, and we will begin to work on preparing your defense immediately. We serve the greater-Phoenix area, including Tempe, Scottsdale, Mesa, and Goodyear. You will be kept informed and have the process explained every step of the way. Together, we can help you get your life back.
Call Salwin Law Group PLLC today at (480) 702-1789 to schedule a consultation
Stewart Salwin
Stewart Salwin is the founder and lead attorney at Salwin Law Group, a criminal defense law firm based in Scottsdale, Arizona, just outside of the greater Phoenix area. He is a graduate of Georgetown University and Harvard Law School, where he was taught criminal law by world-renowned defense attorneys.
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