The Real Cost of a Pasadena DUI
Dealing with a DUI charge
Dealing with a DUI charge or conviction is never fun. While the initial fines and fees associated with a driving under the influence charge are pretty straightforward, many people don’t realize that there are more financial, personal and professional issues they will have to deal with for years to come if they are convicted. That’s the reality of even first time DUI costs. And as logic would have it, the more serious the DUI circumstances (personal injury, property damage, repeat DUI, etc.), the more serious the primary and secondary punishments become.
Because of this, you should never try to handle DUI charges alone; nor should you simply accept the serious charges against you. There are viable defenses to a DUI charge. Working with an experienced DUI attorney can put you in the best position to limit the impact it has on your life now and in the future.
Let’s start with the legal punishments associated with a DUI in Pasadena:
- Fines
- Court Fees
- Attorney Fees
- Alcohol Education Courses
- Community Service
- Driver’s License Suspension
But that is really just the beginning of the financial and manifold headaches you will have to deal with if you are convicted. The secondary punishments attached to a DUI include things like:
- Raised premiums or dropped car insurance: That’s right, when your insurance company finds out about your DUI conviction, they likely will either raise your car insurance or drop you altogether. In most cases, the raise in premiums is substantial and something many people cannot afford after paying all the fines and fees associated with their DUI. And even if the insurance company doesn’t find out about the DUI right away, rest assured: they always find out.
- Professional issues: Whether you already have a job or are searching, your employer can find out about your DUI conviction and act on it. Additionally, many professional applications (e.g., the bar exam) can also ask about whether you have a DUI and you are required to answer “yes” if you have been convicted.
- Personal issues: California is a driving state. It’s no secret we rely on our cars to get everywhere, so even a short suspension of your driving privileges can wreak havoc on your personal and professional life. Imagine the amount of time and money you will need to spend in arranging for alternative transportation if you can’t drive to work even for a month?
So when clients come into my office and want to know what a first time DUI costs, I tell them to have a seat because the list goes on longer than meets the eye. At the Law Office of Richard Jacinto, I am here to help. I know the devastating impact a Pasadena DUI can have on your life. I have a track record of success and will work hard to get you the results you’re looking for. If you or a loved one has recently been charged with a DUI, pick up the phone and call me today. I look forward to hearing from you.
