A DUI doesn’t just hit your record—it hits your wallet, your reputation, and your peace of mind.
– Carolle El-Naffy
Beyond the Fine Print: Understanding the True Cost of a DUI
When most people hear “DUI,” they picture flashing lights, breathalyzers, and a night in jail. But the real cost of a DUI in Florida goes far beyond that. It’s not just about fines or temporary embarrassment—it’s about long-term damage to your finances, freedom, and future.
Let’s break it down, so you’re not blindsided by the hidden price tag.
Court Fines Are Just the Beginning
Yes, you’ll pay fines. For a first-time DUI in Florida, the base fine ranges from $500 to $1,000. If your BAC was over 0.15% or a minor was in the car, that fine can double.
But that’s just the surface. The financial fallout builds from there.
Your License Suspension Will Cost You
Getting your license suspended after a DUI is common. To reinstate it, you’ll need to:
- Enroll in DUI school
- Pay reinstatement fees (up to $500)
- Possibly install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
These costs add up quickly, especially if you need a hardship license to drive to work.
Insurance Premiums Skyrocket
After a DUI conviction, your auto insurance carrier will likely classify you as high-risk, and that means a huge jump in your rates. Some drivers report increases of $1,000 to $3,000 per year—or more.
In some cases, your current provider may drop you entirely. Then you’re stuck shopping for a new policy at inflated rates.
Towing, Storage, and Bail
If your vehicle is impounded after an arrest, you’ll be responsible for towing and storage fees. These can easily reach several hundred dollars.
Then there’s bail money, which varies widely depending on your county and whether it’s your first offense.
DUI School and Treatment Costs
Florida law mandates DUI education courses, which are not free. Depending on your case, you might also be required to attend substance abuse counseling or complete treatment programs—each with its own fee.
Missed Work and Career Impact
A DUI conviction can mean lost income, especially if you’re jailed, attending court dates, or in treatment. If you drive for a living, you might lose your job entirely. And even if you don’t, the stigma of a DUI may affect future employment opportunities.
Attorney Fees: An Investment, Not a Cost
Hiring an experienced DUI attorney like Carolle El-Naffy may seem like another big expense—but it could actually save you thousands. The right defense can reduce or dismiss charges, lower fines, avoid jail time, and protect your driver’s license.
Your Future is Worth More Than the Cost of Doing Nothing
A DUI in Florida is more than a traffic mistake—it’s a legal, financial, and personal crisis. If you’ve been arrested, do not go it alone. The decisions you make in the first 10 days can shape your life for years.
Contact Carolle El-Naffy Today
Need help minimizing the cost and damage of a DUI? Carolle El-Naffy has the knowledge, strategy, and compassion to fight for your best outcome.
📞 Call (305) 456-7576 or Contact Us Here to schedule a confidential consultation.
Office (By Appointment Only):
75 Valencia Ave • Suite 800 • Coral Gables, FL 33134