If you or your loved one has been charged with a traffic crime in Alexandria, Arlington or Fairfax County you likely have questions. Our experienced and knowledgeable staff can tell you what your ticket or arrest means and what kinds of consequences you are facing.
Our law firm has served the Alexandria, Arlington and Fairfax County area since its founding. Contact Terry Adams Law, PLLC at (703) 785-2669 to speak with a former prosecutor and experienced attorney.
Were You Charged With DUI?
If you were charged with DUI or refusal in Alexandria, Arlington, Falls Church or Fairfax County you could lose your driver’s license, receive points on your license, be sentenced to jail, receive fines, be assigned to mandatory alcohol education classes, be required to install an ignition interlock on your vehicle and be subjected to increased car insurance premiums. With the assistance of a skilled lawyer, you may be able to avoid some or all or reduce some or all these penalties.
Other Traffic Violations
Our experienced team at Terry Adams Law, PLLC can also represent you in a variety of additional traffic violations and crimes, including:
Reckless Driving
Driving on a Suspended License
Driving on a Revoked License
The Cost of a DUI
A first offense only and we'll presume you're lucky enough not to have hit anyone or caused property damage. Our conclusion is that if you're arrested, you should expect to pay somewhere between $5,000 and $12,000 with the largest cost typically being the jump in your insurance rates. Here is our estimated breakdown:
Court Costs: Fines differ from County to County. Typically first offense fines range between $250 and $1500.
Legal Fees: Using a lawyer to navigate the system is recommended and will probably help but (assuming you don't go to a jury trial) your fees will likely be reduced.
License Reinstatment: The administrative costs for getting your license back after suspension is currently $220.00
Substance Abuse/Counseling/Rehabilitation Classes (ASAP): If these are required in your case, the cost currently is $450.00.
Ignition Interlock System: If required, (Mandatory of convicted of DUI/DWI) you'll pay an installation fee and monthly rental fee of approximately $80 per month. Average time for first offense is 6 months though many states require longer periods.
Increased Insurance costs: After a DUI, you'll be categorized by your insurance company as a high-risk driver. Most insurance companies will raise rates at least $1,000 - $1500 or more annually. This high-risk requirement typically continues for three years, after which the rates drop back down. Expect to pay between $3,000 - $4500 over three years.
Loss of Income: Sitting in jail, doing community service, court appearances and remedial services may take you away from your job for anywhere from one to four weeks. The median US income in 2014 was about $52,000 a year. So we're estimating the cost at $1,000 to $4,000.
We strongly recommend that you hire a skilled lawyer to assist you through this process.