Driving under the influence, commonly known as DUI, can have significant consequences in New Hampshire. Beyond the immediate impact of being stopped by law enforcement and potentially arrested, the financial cost associated with a DUI conviction can be overwhelming. If you are convicted of a DUI in New Hampshire, you will face various fines, fees, and other related costs that can affect you for years to come. Understanding the total financial burden of a DUI conviction is important for anyone facing these charges, as the penalties go far beyond the courtroom. In this page, we will explore the fines and fees involved in a DUI conviction in New Hampshire, along with the long-term financial consequences you may encounter. At, Tenn And Tenn, PA , we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
James J. Tenn, Jr.
Attorney
Mary Elizabeth Tenn
Attorney
John J. Tenn
Attorney
Working hard to obtain the best results possible for our clients and fighting to protect their rights.
Fines and Fees for a DUI Conviction
One of the most obvious costs of a DUI conviction in New Hampshire is the fine you will have to pay. The state imposes mandatory minimum fines for DUI offenses, and these fines increase with each subsequent conviction. For a first-time DUI offense, the minimum fine is typically around $500, although additional court fees can raise the total cost. If this is your second or third offense, you can expect the fines to increase significantly. For a second offense, the fine can range from $750 to $1,000. For a third offense, the fines can be even higher, reaching up to $2,000 or more. These fines are only the beginning of the financial penalties you may face after a DUI conviction.
In addition to the fines imposed by the court, there are various other fees that come with a DUI conviction. One of the most significant fees is the cost of attending a state-approved impaired driver intervention program. This program is mandatory for individuals convicted of DUI in New Hampshire, and it is designed to educate drivers about the dangers of driving under the influence. The cost of this program can vary, but it typically ranges from $500 to $1,000. You will be responsible for paying this fee out of pocket, in addition to the court-imposed fines.
Another fee you will likely have to pay is the cost of having your driver’s license reinstated after a DUI conviction. In New Hampshire, a DUI conviction often leads to a suspension of your driver’s license for a specified period of time. Once your suspension period is over, you will need to pay a reinstatement fee to get your license back. This fee is usually around $100, although it can be higher if you have multiple DUI convictions on your record. If you are required to install an ignition interlock device as part of your sentence, you will also be responsible for the cost of the device, which can add hundreds of dollars to the overall expense.
Additional Financial Consequences of a DUI Conviction
Beyond the immediate fines and fees associated with a DUI conviction, there are other long-term financial consequences you will likely face. One of the most significant is the increase in your car insurance rates. A DUI conviction is considered a serious offense by insurance companies, and as a result, your insurance premiums will likely increase significantly. Some drivers see their insurance rates double or even triple after a DUI conviction. Over time, this can add thousands of dollars to the total cost of your DUI.
In some cases, you may also be required to carry SR-22 insurance after a DUI conviction. SR-22 insurance is a type of high-risk insurance that is required for drivers who have been convicted of certain offenses, including DUI. The cost of SR-22 insurance is much higher than regular insurance, and you will be required to carry it for a specified period of time, often three years. This additional insurance requirement can add hundreds or even thousands of dollars to the long-term cost of a DUI conviction.
Another financial consequence of a DUI conviction is the potential loss of income. If your job requires you to have a valid driver’s license, a DUI conviction and the resulting license suspension could make it difficult or impossible for you to continue working. This is especially true for individuals who work as commercial drivers, as a DUI conviction can lead to the loss of a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Even if your job does not require a CDL, you may still face difficulties getting to and from work if your license is suspended. This loss of income can compound the financial burden of a DUI conviction, making it even more difficult to recover financially.
Court and Legal Costs
The legal process itself can be expensive when you are facing a DUI conviction in New Hampshire. In addition to the fines and fees imposed by the court, you may also be responsible for paying court costs and other related expenses. These costs can vary depending on the specifics of your case, but they often include things like filing fees, administrative fees, and the cost of processing your case through the court system. These costs can add up quickly, especially if your case is complicated or if you have multiple court appearances.
Hiring an attorney to represent you in a DUI case can also be a significant expense. While it is possible to represent yourself in a DUI case, most people choose to hire an attorney to help them navigate the legal process and potentially reduce the severity of their penalties. The cost of hiring an attorney can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the attorney’s experience, but it is not uncommon for legal fees to reach several thousand dollars. Although this is an additional cost, having an attorney on your side can be worth the investment if it helps you avoid harsher penalties or reduces the length of your license suspension.
Impact on Future Opportunities
A DUI conviction can also have long-term consequences beyond the immediate fines and fees. One of the most significant ways a DUI can impact your future is by limiting your job opportunities. Many employers conduct background checks as part of the hiring process, and a DUI conviction can raise red flags for potential employers. Some employers may be hesitant to hire someone with a DUI on their record, particularly if the job involves driving or working in a position of responsibility.
In addition to limiting your job opportunities, a DUI conviction can also impact your ability to obtain certain professional licenses. Many professions, such as nursing, teaching, and law, require individuals to have a clean criminal record in order to obtain or maintain a professional license. A DUI conviction could jeopardize your ability to obtain or renew these licenses, which could limit your career options.
A DUI conviction can also affect your ability to travel internationally. Some countries have strict entry requirements for individuals with criminal convictions, and a DUI conviction could prevent you from entering certain countries. This can be particularly problematic if you need to travel for work or if you have family members living abroad.
Facing a DUI conviction in New Hampshire can be a daunting experience, especially when you consider the significant financial costs involved. From court fines and fees to long-term financial consequences like increased insurance rates and lost job opportunities, the impact of a DUI conviction can be long-lasting. If you are dealing with a DUI charge, it is essential to have the right legal support to help you navigate the process and protect your future.
At Tenn And Tenn, PA, we understand the complexities of DUI cases and are dedicated to providing our clients with the best possible defense. Our experienced attorneys will work with you to ensure that your rights are protected and help you minimize the financial and legal consequences of a DUI conviction. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you in securing the best possible outcome for your situation.