The Cost of a DWI Goes Far Beyond the Fines You Have to Pay
Getting a DWI after what started as a fun night but ended badly because of poor choices can be costly. Not only will a conviction result in fines, court fees, legal expenses, and more, but you’ll also struggle with the consequences of your conviction for many years, such as having a hard time getting a job. That’s why working with an experienced Denton DWI attorney like Brent D. Bowen is so important. Attorney Bowen works to exonerate you of the charges or to get a reduced sentenced, which can save you big in both the short- and the long-term.
The total tangible cost of a DWI can be as much as $20,000 or more. The monetary costs can include:
- Bail to get out of jail
- Fines assessed by the court and court costs
- Restitution fees to the people who you injured or whose property you damaged while driving under the influence
- Probation fees
- Attorney fees
- Court fees
- Cost of installing an ignition interlock device
- Fee for your car being kept in an impound lot
- License reinstatement fee
- Cost of taking DWI education classes
- Cost of attending alcohol treatment
- Increased insurance premium
The more serious the consequences of your actions – such as an accident that resulted in serious injury or even death – the more you will end up paying in financial costs. Not all of these charges will be applicable in every DWI case, but the more serious the incident, the more you will expect to pay.
For a first-time DWI offense, you can be ordered to pay a fine of up to $2,000, spend 72 hours to 180 days in jail, and have your license suspended for 90 days to a year. Those penalties compound with each offense and with mitigating circumstances. For example, if you are convicted of a DWI while you have a child younger than 15 in the car, you can be ordered to pay a fine of up to $10,000, have to spend 6 months to 2 years in jail, and have your license suspended for 90 days to 2 years. A first time DWI with a child younger than 15 years old is a felony. The more serious your chargers, the harder your attorney will have to work to fight them, which will increase your legal fees, as well.
Whether you have been charged with a DWI for the first time or the fifth time, you need to work with a skilled Texas DWI attorney to fight the charges. Brent D. Bowen, attorney at law, has helped hundreds of clients just like you keep DWI charges off their record, or reduce the charges for less severe penalties. A DWI conviction can follow you for years, making it harder for you to get a job, obtain affordable insurance, or even be able to drive. By working with an attorney, you can reduce the penalties you face and make it easier to move forward. Call Denton DWI lawyer Brent D. Bowen at (940) 222-2488 or use our secure online form to schedule a free consultation.
