Financial Cost of Fighting Texas DWI Charges

From the moment one is arrested for a charge of DWI, the costs begin to add up. Though the financial cost of fighting these charges may be high, too often the long-term effects of such a conviction make it an investment well worth making.

The difference could be acquittal versus conviction with a qualified Houston DWI lawyer for Houston residents.

Initial Costs of a DWI Arrest

The financial burden does not start at sentencing; monetary consequences begin immediately following an arrest. Once a person is charged with a DWI, you may be required to post bail, which might be anything from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, contingent upon circumstances.

Your car will more than likely be impounded on top of being towed, adding to the mounting bill. These costs can get quite high depending on how long the car has been in impound.

Administrative fees are yet another maze that one will have to be involved in. If you fail or refuse a breath test in Texas, a suspension of your license is given. Such a suspension can only be challenged by requesting what is known as an ALR hearing; this, on its part, has its own set of filing fees and expenses.

Attorney Fees and Legal Representation

Legal representation manicures a place in the top most of these expenses. An experienced Houston DWI attorney is quite crucial in developing a strong defense and possibly escaping convicted status. Fees from lawyers in this field vary regarding several factors, including the complexity of the case, the years of experience an attorney has, or if the case will go to trial. The average Houston DWI lawyer fees range from $3,000 to $10,000.

At Tad Nelson & Associates, some of the most seasoned Houston DWI attorneys work tirelessly to reduce the impact of a DWI charge. Our experience and deep knowledge of Texas DWI laws help clients through the process. 

Court Costs, Fines, and Penalties

If your case goes to court, there is still more money involved. There might be a fee for taking your case to court and filing motions, etc. The fine for a person convicted of a first DWI in Texas is as much as $2,000. Sentencing factors, such as multiple offenses or an aggravating circumstance like having a minor in the car, can raise fines to $10,000.

Hidden and Long-Term Costs

The financial consequences of a DWI charge don’t even end when your case is over. Perhaps one of the biggest hidden costs comes in auto insurance premiums. Generally speaking, drivers who have had a conviction for DWI see their insurance rates double or even triple. This may add up, over time, to thousands of dollars in extra costs to keep the insurance coverage.

Conclusion

Although the cost of fighting a DWI charge can be significant, the financial rate for a conviction often proves to be much higher. With a qualified Houston drunk driving attorney on your side, your hopes of reducing fines and dodging the penalties are improved and can secure your future. For professional assistance, contact Tad Nelson & Associates at 713-489-7373 or contact for more information.