How Much Does an Illinois DUI Conviction Really Cost?

 Posted on November 12, 2019 in DUI

Nothing is free in this world -- not even getting in trouble is free. On the contrary, people who get in trouble with the law usually end up paying monetary costs for years because the fines and fees involved in criminal cases can be so expensive. In Illinois, being convicted of a DUI can be one of the most expensive criminal convictions. First-time DUI offenders are typically charged with a Class A misdemeanor, and a conviction could result in up to one year in prison, up to $2,500 in fines, and a one-year driver’s license suspension. What many people do not realize is that there are actually many more costs associated with a DUI conviction. Here are a few common, yet not necessarily obvious costs:

• Increased Insurance Rates: After you have been convicted of DUI, you will be required to carry high-risk insurance, which costs more than normal insurance. Having high-risk insurance is required for at least three years. At $2,000 per year, insurance costs after a DUI conviction can cost you an extra $6,000.
• Court Costs and Legal Fees: An uncontested plea and a hardship driving permit will cost you around $2,000. You can also expect to pay up to $2,500 in fines and court costs of $750 for a DUI conviction. You will also have to pay reimbursements to law enforcement for towing and vehicle storage fees, which are about $250, bringing the total to approximately $5,500.
• Loss of Income: Missing time from work is not uncommon when you are charged and convicted of DUI. Jail time, community service, rehabilitation and/or remedial education classes can all lead to lost wages. A person who makes $55,000 per year can expect to lose four weeks of income, or an estimated $4,230.
• Rehabilitation Services: If the court determines that you have a habitual and unhealthy relationship with alcohol, they may order you to attend substance abuse classes, counseling, and/or evaluations. Total rehabilitation costs can usually be around $300. 
• BAIID Installation and Use: Driving while your driver’s license is suspended or revoked for DUI is not impossible, but it does come at a cost. You must have a BAIID installed on your vehicle for at least one year. The one-time installation fee is typically around $100. Monthly rental fees are around $80, and monthly monitoring fees are around $30, bringing your total for one year to $1,420.
• Driver’s License Reinstatement Fees: Once you are eligible to have your license reinstated, you must attend a formal hearing at the Secretary of State’s office, which has a non-refundable fee of $50. Applying for a new license costs $30, and applying for a license after a suspension or revocation carries a reinstatement fee of $500.

Contact a Rolling Meadows, IL Criminal Defense Attorney 

Being convicted of a DUI is no joke. Not only will you have this conviction on your driving and criminal records forever, but you will also face an average DUI cost of $18,030. For most people, this is a huge financial burden that will take years to pay off. Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law understands the significant impact a DUI can have on your life, and he will do everything in his power to help you avoid a conviction. Call our skilled Arlington Heights, IL DUI defense lawyers today at 847-253-3400 to schedule a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a118.pdf