How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost in Denver?

A Denver DUI lawyer typically charges between $3,000 and $9,000 for a first offense. Complex cases involving injuries or prior convictions can cost $15,000 or more depending on the lawyer’s experience and case details.

Factors That Influence DUI Lawyer Costs in Denver

Several key elements determine what you’ll pay for DUI representation in Denver. Understanding these factors helps you evaluate attorney fees and make informed decisions.

Attorney Experience and Reputation play the largest role in pricing. Seasoned attorneys who’ve handled hundreds of DUI cases command higher fees than newer practitioners. A lawyer with 10 years of DUI-specific experience and a track record of favorable outcomes typically charges $3,000 to $9,000 for standard cases. Rates below $2,500 are increasingly rare for quality representation.

Case Complexity and Charges substantially impact costs. A straightforward first-offense DUI with no aggravating factors costs less than cases involving accidents, injuries, property damage, or multiple charges. If you’re facing additional charges like reckless driving or drug possession alongside your DUI, expect fees to increase. Complex cases requiring expert witnesses or technical defenses can easily exceed $15,000.

Court Location and Jurisdiction can also affect pricing. Cases in Jefferson, Arapahoe, or Adams County may be priced differently than those in Denver County. Some attorneys adjust rates based on travel distance and familiarity with local courts and prosecutors.

Time Investment Required varies. A DUI resolved quickly through negotiation requires less attorney time than one that proceeds to trial. Attorneys factor anticipated time commitments into their fees from the beginning.

Types of Fee Structures for Denver DUI Lawyers

• Flat Fee Arrangements are most common. You pay a set amount upfront that covers most services through resolution. Flat fees typically range from $3,000 to $5,000 for first offenses and may exclude trial representation or appeals.
• Hourly Billing Rates are used for more complex matters. Rates typically range from $200 to $500 per hour, depending on experience. This can add up quickly in trial-heavy cases.
• Retainer-Based Pricing involves paying a deposit against which the attorney bills for services. Retainers usually range from $3,000 to $7,500 depending on the case.
• Hybrid Fee Structures combine flat and hourly billing. For example, an attorney may charge a flat fee for pre-trial work and hourly rates if the case goes to trial.

Choosing an attorney whose fee structure aligns with your situation ensures you get the representation you need without unexpected costs.

Cost Breakdown by DUI Case Type

• First-Offense DUI Costs usually fall between $3,000 and $6,000 for experienced representation. Fees may increase if the case moves to trial or requires significant defense.
• Repeat Offense and Aggravated DUI Fees start around $4,000 and can exceed $8,000 due to increased penalties and defense complexity.
• Felony DUI and Vehicular Assault Cases often cost $8,000 to $15,000 or more, requiring extensive preparation, expert witnesses, and trial work.
• DWAI and Lesser Charges typically range from $1,500 to $3,000, but still require skilled representation.

These ranges reflect the complexity and consequences involved with each case type.

Additional Costs Beyond Attorney Fees

• Court Costs and Filing Fees: Expect to pay $200 to $500, plus any additional motion or appeal fees.
• Expert Witnesses and Investigations: Expert testimony may cost $2,000 to $5,000, while private investigators run $75 to $150 per hour. Accident reconstruction can add $5,000 to $10,000.
• DMV Hearing Representation: This may be included in your flat fee or billed separately, typically $500 to $1,500.
• Administrative Expenses: Copying, travel, and communication fees can add several hundred dollars.

Budgeting for these additional costs helps prevent financial surprises.

Evaluating Value vs. Cost When Hiring a DUI Lawyer

The cheapest DUI attorney isn’t always the best choice—especially with charges that can affect your future.

What You Get for Your Investment varies. Experienced attorneys know the local courts, prosecutors, and procedures. They spot weak points in the prosecution’s case and build stronger defenses.

Long-Term Financial Impact of a DUI often exceeds legal fees. A conviction can raise your insurance rates by $1,000 to $2,000 annually, costing you more over time. You also risk losing professional licenses or job opportunities. Quality legal help often reduces these risks and long-term expenses.

Public Defender vs. Private Attorney: Public defenders are free but often overworked. Private attorneys offer more personalized attention and resources.

Avoid Extreme Pricing: Attorneys charging well below market may lack experience or cut corners. Extremely high fees should be justified by a strong record and deep expertise.

Payment Options and Financing for DUI Legal Fees

Most Denver DUI attorneys understand legal fees are unexpected and offer limited payment flexibility.

• Payment Plans and Installments: Some attorneys allow fees to be paid over up to 3 months. This varies by firm and case.
• Credit Card and Financing: Most accept credit cards, and some use legal financing services with payment plans.
• Legal Aid: Low-income individuals may qualify for reduced-cost representation, but most auto insurance won’t cover DUI defense.

Negotiating Payment Terms is not always an option. Many experienced attorneys set clear, fixed pricing and do not reduce their fees. Ask about this up front to avoid misunderstandings.

When It’s Worth Paying More for DUI Representation

Some situations justify paying more for a highly skilled DUI attorney:

• High-Stakes Cases: If you hold a CDL, professional license, or security clearance, your career may be on the line. Premium legal help is worth the cost.
• Technical or Scientific Defenses: Cases involving blood test issues, breathalyzer malfunctions, or medical conditions require attorneys with specialized expertise.
• Trial Experience: Attorneys with courtroom skill and a proven trial record may cost more, but they bring valuable advantages if your case cannot be resolved outside court.
• Track Record with Similar Cases: Hiring someone who’s succeeded in cases like yours improves your odds of a positive outcome.

Do You Need Legal Help with Your Colorado Criminal Charges?

If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges in Colorado, don’t wait — contact the Colorado criminal defense lawyers at Prager Law today. Criminal charges are terrifying, and you deserve more than a cookie-cutter defense. At Prager Law, we provide personalized legal representation backed by real trial experience and insider knowledge of how prosecutors think.

Founding attorney Steve Prager is a former supervisor in the El Paso County District Attorney’s Office. He’s handled more than forty jury trials and trained new prosecutors — giving him rare insight into how cases are built and, more importantly, where they fall apart. That experience can be the difference between a conviction and a second chance.

Call 720-303-1044 or contact us online to discuss your case. We’ll review your situation, explain your legal options, and start building a strategic defense — one built just for you.