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The Hidden Costs Associated with a DUI Conviction in California

You know what happens in California when someone is convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol, or DUI. The driver can be subjected to numerous penalties such as jail time, license suspension and fines. You may not know about the hidden costs of a DUI conviction.

These hidden penalties can vary depending on the circumstances surrounding the conviction. The factors determining the consequences can include:

  • The seriousness of the charge
  • The driver’s criminal history
  • The driver’s blood alcohol concentration, or BAC

Also, the hidden penalties are both long- and short-term.

Various ongoing expenses and costs are devastating aspects of a DUI conviction. These hidden costs are not always given a great deal of attention because larger penalties like jail time can get the lion’s share of attention.

Below are some hidden expenses and costs of a DUI conviction:

DUI Courses: People convicted of DUI in California are required to attend DUI classes. These mandatory court-ordered classes are required to have your driver’s license restored. Unfortunately they are not free.

Increased Car Insurance Premiums: In addition to paying for DUI classes, you’ll may pay more for car insurance. After a DUI conviction many car insurers increase a driver’s insurance premiums because of the additional points on the driving record. The more points on your driving record, the more you can expect to pay for car insurance.

Paying Money to the Court: These court fees are separate from some court-ordered fines and can add up quickly.

Driver’s License Restoration Fee: Typically a driver’s license suspension is automatic after a DUI arrest. Once the driver has completed the time required for a suspended license, he can apply to have it restored. This restoration includes paying administrative fees to California’s Department of Motor Vehicles, or DMV.

Transportation: Drivers with suspended driver’s licenses may find that the costs associated with transportation will quickly increase. Transportation isn’t cheap in California and often includes taxis and public transportation. If friends won’t provide rides for free, a driver will have to pay them. This will add to transportation costs.

Probation: Some drivers are placed on probation after a DUI conviction. This generally occurs when there are multiple DUI offenses. In some cases a driver may have to pay a monthly probation fee.

Ignition Interlock Device: Drivers in California may be required to install an ignition interlock device commonly referred to as an IID on their vehicles. This is a huge added expense. The court can make the device mandatory. The driver must pay for the installation and removal of the device. In addition, the driver is responsible for the routine maintenance required for the device. This expense could range into the thousands of dollars.

Work Furlough: A court may require a driver convicted of DUI to complete a work furlough or work release program. If the court doesn’t require it, a driver may ask. Completing one of these programs can help to avoid jail or prison time. These programs do require out-of-pocket costs.

Reading the hidden costs associated with a DUI conviction is scary. With a DUI conviction, these costs can be a required part of your future. The good news is that a DUI charge isn’t an automatic win for the prosecution. You are innocent until proven guilty. The Law Offices of Jonathan Franklin is dedicated to defending those accused of driving under the influence.

Schedule your initial consultation with Attorney Jonathan Franklin. He will work hard with you to avoid these hidden costs from becoming part of your future.

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Contact Information

Jonathan Franklin DUI Attorney
6777 Hollywood Blvd Ste 508
Los Angeles, CA 90028
323-464-6700