Free ConsultationMost people hesitate to call a lawyer because they don't know how much it will cost
Calling a lawyer does not create a bill or commit you to hiring one
Being charged with impaired driving is stressful, and for many people the first concern is cost.
People often hesitate to contact a lawyer because they assume something will happen the moment they call. They worry they will be pressured to hire someone or immediately owe money.
So they wait.
It helps to know what actually happens financially when you speak with a lawyer.
What actually happens when you contact a lawyer
A consultation exists so you can understand your situation before committing to anything.
During that conversation the lawyer explains what the charge means, what usually happens next, and what level of work the case may require. You can also ask directly about cost.
After that discussion, you decide whether representation makes sense for you.
There is no financial commitment simply for calling and asking questions.
Some people also want to know whether they could handle the case themselves before deciding. That usually becomes clearer after learning what is involved in Can I Represent Myself?
How lawyers usually charge for a DUI case
Impaired driving cases are typically not billed hourly. Instead, the lawyer sets a fee in advance based on the expected work.
You know the cost before deciding how to proceed.
A fixed fee commonly includes reviewing evidence, providing legal advice, attending court appearances, and preparing for resolution or trial if necessary. The fee does not increase because the case takes longer than expected.
In some situations, cases resolve early, while in others charges may be challenged and sometimes charges get dismissed becomes a realistic possibility depending on the evidence.
Why some cases cost more than others
Some cases resolve quickly after reviewing the evidence. Others require detailed legal analysis or a trial.
The difference depends on how much work is required to properly address the charge.
A consultation allows the lawyer to estimate where your situation likely falls.
Trying to save money quickly can cost more later
People sometimes consider resolving the charge immediately to avoid legal fees.
But the financial consequences of a conviction exist separately from legal fees. Fines, licence suspensions, increased insurance, and employment effects follow the conviction, not the lawyer.
Many people only understand the full impact after reviewing the actual penalties and consequences of an impaired driving conviction.
Before deciding anything, it can also help to understand why lawyers often caution clients to never plead guilty without first reviewing the evidence.
Understanding that difference helps you decide how you want to proceed.
Payment arrangements - if paying all at once is difficult
Most people are not financially prepared for a legal expense.
Because of that, many lawyers offer payment timing options rather than requiring everything at once.
You can discuss payment structure before deciding whether to hire. Nothing is owed until you agree.
What happens when you choose to hire the lawyer
You receive a retainer agreement explaining what the lawyer will do and what the cost is.
You review it before signing. Nothing begins until you agree.
There are no financial surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to hire the lawyer after calling?
No. The conversation is informational.
Will I be billed for the consultation?
No. The purpose is to understand your situation first.
Can the lawyer tell me the cost right away?
Usually yes, after hearing the details of the case.
Do I need to decide immediately?
No. You can take time to think after receiving the information.
You can decide after you understand the cost
Many people delay getting advice because they assume they cannot afford a lawyer. Often they simply have not yet been told how the process works.
Speaking with a lawyer allows you to understand your situation and the expected cost before deciding what to do next.
Call {lawyer} at {tel} for a free confidential consultation.
You can understand the situation first and decide afterwards. Nothing happens just because you called.