DUI Fines
If you convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), you may face several criminal penalties including: probation, jail time, community service, loss of driving privileges, and drug and alcohol counseling and/or treatment. You may also be ordered to pay DUI fines.There are several factors that determine the amount of the DUI fines. Each state has developed specific guidelines regarding the amount of fines a defendant may face depending on the circumstances of the DUI case. While the judge presiding over the case must follow these guidelines, he or she makes the final decision on the amount that the defendant must pay.
A DUI offender may be subject to two types of fines: criminal fines and restitution. Criminal fines are intended to punish the offender while restitution is used to compensate the victim in a DUI case.
Criminal DUI fines are typically imposed in criminal court. The purpose of criminal fines is to penalize the offender and to keep him or her from driving under the influence in the future. While each state has different set amounts, the fines for a typical first offense may range from $500 to $1,000. For a habitual offender, these fines may reach up to $15,000 or higher.
Restitution fines may be imposed in a civil court when another party sustains property damage or bodily harm. These fines are used to compensate the victim in a DUI-related accident. The victim may be seeking compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, loss of income, or property damage.
DUI fines also include the costs that the offender may incur while complying with the judge’s sentence. For example, the judge may order the offender to attend DUI School or receive alcohol and drug treatment. The cost for these programs must be paid out-of-pocket by the DUI offender.
In addition, the Department of Motor Vehicles may also impose fines in order for an offender to have his or her license reinstated.
Do you have questions about DUI fines in your state? If so, it is best to contact a skilled DUI defense attorney in your area as soon as possible.
