A DUI in Tennessee can be scary both emotionally and financially. DUI costs go way beyond the initial arrest and legal fees. From out of pocket costs like bail, towing fees and court costs to long term financial burdens like increased insurance premiums and potential job loss the consequences are far reaching and overwhelming.
Knowing all the costs and having an experienced Nashville DUI attorney is key to anyone going through the DUI process. In this blog, we will break down DUI costs in Tennessee so you can understand what to expect and how to prepare for the financial hit of this serious offense.
Initial DUI Costs
A DUI in Tennessee means immediate costs.
Bail Money
First the bail money. Bail can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand.
Towing and Impound Fees
Then your vehicle will be towed and impounded and towing fees will add up fast.
SR-22 Insurance
Then you’ll need SR-22 insurance. This high risk insurance is required for those with a DUI conviction and will increase your premium.
Court Costs
And court costs will start adding up. These are fees for processing your case which can range from $100 to $1,500 or more depending on your situation.
These initial costs are just the tip of the iceberg. They are the foundation of the financial burden you will face as you go through the DUI process. Each of these costs is mandatory and must be taken care of quickly to avoid more problems.
Court Ordered DUI Costs
Court ordered costs for a DUI in Tennessee are big.
Fines
Fines alone are $350 to $1,500 for a first offense DUI. These fines depend on the specifics of the DUI charge and if there were other infractions during the DUI arrest.
Education Courses
Education courses are another cost. DUI school is required and costs several hundred dollars. You may also be required to take other educational programs depending on your conviction.
Ignition Interlock Device
An ignition interlock device is often required. These devices won’t let your car start if alcohol is detected on your breath. The installation fee is around $150 and monthly maintenance fees are $50 to $100. These add up fast especially since the device may need to be installed for several months or even years.
License Reinstatement Fees
License reinstatement fees are another cost. After a DUI conviction, reinstating your driver’s license involves multiple fees. A $100 reinstatement fee, a $3 certification fee, a $50 financial responsibility fee and a $75 fee for not surrendering your driver’s license are all common fees.
Other DUI Costs
Drug and Alcohol Treatment Programs
Court ordered drug and alcohol treatment programs will add to DUI costs. These programs vary in cost but are usually several hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the intensity and duration required.
DUI Classes
Court ordered DUI classes are another cost to consider. These educational sessions are to prevent future offenses and cost anywhere from $150 to $500. The exact cost depends on the provider and what the court requires.
Ignition Interlock Device
An ignition interlock device is often required for DUI offenders. The cost doesn’t stop at installation which is $70 to $150. Monthly maintenance fees also apply which is $60 to $80. This device won’t let the vehicle start if alcohol is detected on the driver’s breath, adding to the financial burden.
Administrative Fees
In addition to the cost of DUI classes and devices there are administrative fees. These include fees for license reinstatement which can be over $200 and fees for not surrendering your driver’s license on time.
Insurance Premiums
A DUI will almost always result in higher auto insurance rates. High-risk insurance premiums can be 2-3 times more than your current rates. This will last for several years and can cost you thousands of dollars over time.
Job-Related Costs
A DUI can affect your job, especially if you drive for work. The loss of income and difficulty finding a new job can have long-term financial consequences.
Jail Time
Jail time for a DUI in Tennessee depends on several factors.
First Offense DUI
For a first offense DUI, the minimum is 48 hours but can be up to 11 months and 29 days. If the BAC is over .20 the mandatory jail time is 7 days. If there was a passenger under 18 in the vehicle during the DUI the penalty is 29 days.
Repeat Offenders
Repeat offenders get even harsher penalties. A second DUI is 45 days minimum and up to 11 months and 29 days. A third is 120 days minimum and a fourth is a Class C felony which is 150 days minimum and can be several years in prison.
Financial Impact of Jail Time
Don’t underestimate the financial impact of jail time. Besides the direct DUI costs like fines and legal fees there are indirect DUI costs too. Time in jail can result in job loss if you can’t go to work. This can further impact your ability to pay court costs and other related fees. And having a criminal record makes future employment tough, adding to the financial burden.
Long-Term Consequences
A DUI in Tennessee has consequences that go beyond the immediate fines and legal fees.
Employment
One of the biggest is employment. Many employers do background checks and having a DUI on your record can make job hunting harder. It may even disqualify you from certain jobs altogether.
Financial
Financially a DUI can also affect your ability to get loans or financing. Banks and lending institutions view individuals with a DUI as higher risk and will charge higher interest rates or deny loan applications. This can make big life purchases like buying a home or vehicle more difficult and costly.
Personal and Professional Life
And having a DUI on your record can impact many areas of your personal and professional life. While expungement is possible for some offenses, a DUI will usually stay on your record and limit your travel opportunities especially to countries that have strict entry requirements.
Long-Term Consequences
Consider these long-term consequences when calculating total DUI costs. The immediate cost is just the beginning. The impact on your employment, financial well being and personal freedom can be huge. A DUI attorney can help minimize these consequences with strategies to reduce charges or get your case dismissed.
Contact an Experienced Nashville DUI Attorney Today!
Navigating the financial and legal aspects of a DUI in Tennessee can be tough but you don’t have to do it alone. If you or someone you know is facing a DUI, you need to get legal help asap. An experienced Nashville DUI attorney can guide and represent you to reduce charges, minimize costs and protect your future.
New clients get a free consultation, so contact us today at 615-255-9595!
