What does a Criminal DUI Attorney or lawyer cost in Idaho?

 What does a Criminal DUI Attorney or lawyer cost in Idaho? 

The Answer is simple. It depends. For a DUI first offense, a criminal lawyer or attorney in Idaho who specializes in DUI's varies in cost. The reason for the cost is based on the specific firm you choose, the lawyers experience, and the time the lawyer charges to handle the case. I would say the safest assumption would be between $1,500-$4,500 on a retainer basis and anywhere from $100/hr-$400/hr. 

    Why is it so expensive? Criminal lawyers and DUI attorneys generally need to be familiar with not only the law, but the science behind breath tests instruments, blood draw procedures, and the various types of analyzation of both breath and blood tests. Not only that, some DUI's involve suppression issues. So the attorney must have a good handle on the 4th Amendment. 

    Should I take the cheapest DUI lawyer in town? Everyones situation is different. If you are a truck driver for instance, and you depend on driving your income, then look at the most experienced. If you are someone who barely drives and can get buy without a license for a while, then maybe someone more affordable or less experienced will do.

    How about my lawyer that does my will, should I let him handle this? Some lawyers generalize in all areas of the law, however, I wouldn't recommend someone who is not a specialist in at least Criminal Law. The reason being is that DUI's can become complicated in a hurry and I see many civil attorneys come into criminal court above their heads. Of course, no one wants to turn down free money, so many of them take a case and know nothing about how to defend them. This becomes a problem. My advice is to stay with someone who knows DUI's and how the local judges handles them. 

    How about the public defender can they handle my DUI? If you qualify for the public defender, it's a great option if you qualify for one. Public defenders are often in the law for the right reasons, they are experienced because they see hundreds of cases a day, and they know the particular sheriff's offices tactics. However, some of the public defenders assigned to DUI's are lower level or newer attorneys, and they may be overworked. 

If you are looking for an affordable attorney in Caldwell, Nampa, or anywhere else in Canyon County, Idaho; consider calling and setting up a free consultation first or visit our website here