Introduction
DUI legal costs in New Hampshire vary based on whether the charge is a first or repeat offense, whether injuries or property damage occurred, and whether the case is resolved through negotiation or proceeds to trial. Total expenses typically include attorney fees, statutory fines, court assessments, license penalties, and mandatory alcohol-related programs, with costs rising sharply in contested or repeat cases.
A New Hampshire–specific cost driver is availability of specialists, particularly toxicology experts and experienced DUI defense attorneys. In more populated areas such as Manchester and Nashua, cases are more likely to involve expert testimony and evidentiary challenges, which increases both legal fees and case duration.
DUI Lawyer Fee Breakdown in New Hampshire
| Case Type | Fee Structure | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| First-offense DUI (no trial) | Flat fee | $2,800 – $4,900 |
| First-offense DUI (evidence challenged) | Flat + hourly | $4,500 – $7,800 |
| Second DUI offense | Flat fee | $6,000 – $12,500 |
| Felony DUI or injury-related case | Hourly billing | $11,000 – $30,000+ |
| Attorney hourly rate | Per hour | $300 – $550 |
For national averages, see: How Much Do Lawyers Cost in the United States.
New Hampshire DUI Court, Government & Administrative Costs
| Cost Category | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Criminal court filing and assessments | $150 – $500 |
| Statutory DUI fines and penalties | $500 – $2,000 |
| Alcohol education or treatment programs | $400 – $1,500 |
| Probation supervision and compliance | $600 – $2,000 |
| License suspension and reinstatement | $150 – $350 |
| Ignition interlock device (IID) | $1,200 – $3,600 per year |
Related guide: Court Costs in the United States.
Cost Escalation Factors in New Hampshire DUI Cases
| Escalation Factor | Cost Impact Explanation |
|---|---|
| Expert witness involvement | Higher attorney and expert fees |
| High BAC test results | Enhanced penalties and longer programs |
| Chemical test refusal | Separate DMV hearings required |
| Accident or injury claims | Felony exposure and investigation |
| Trial preparation | Motions, hearings, and testimony |
How New Hampshire DUI Costs Compare to Other States
DUI cases in New Hampshire are more expensive than many Midwest and Southern states due to higher attorney rates and frequent use of expert witnesses. Costs are generally comparable to other Northeastern states with strict impaired-driving enforcement.
For a broader comparison, see: Legal Costs by State.
Strategies to Reduce DUI Legal Costs in New Hampshire
| Cost-Control Strategy | Practical Benefit |
|---|---|
| Retain counsel early | Limits early procedural escalation |
| Address DMV hearings promptly | Prevents duplicate proceedings |
| Complete programs on schedule | Avoids probation extensions |
| Focus disputes on key issues | Reduces trial preparation |
| Maintain full compliance | Prevents added penalties |
FAQ — DUI Legal Costs in New Hampshire
What does a DUI typically cost in New Hampshire?
Most DUI cases range from $2,500 to over $30,000 depending on offense level, expert involvement, and whether the case goes to trial.
Which situations most often increase DUI costs in New Hampshire?
Expert testimony, chemical test refusals, injury-related allegations, and repeat offenses are the most common cost escalators.
How does the DUI process usually work in New Hampshire?
Cases involve criminal court proceedings alongside separate administrative license actions, often requiring multiple hearings.
When does handling a DUI without a lawyer become risky in New Hampshire?
Risk increases significantly when license suspension, expert evidence, or felony exposure is involved.
How long do DUI cases usually take in New Hampshire?
How long do DUI cases usually take in New Hampshire?
What problems most commonly delay DUI cases in New Hampshire?
Expert scheduling, evidentiary disputes, and delayed program completion.
Which DUI-related costs are non-refundable in New Hampshire?
Court fees, fines, treatment costs, IID expenses, and most administrative penalties are non-refundable.
Related Guides
Lawyer Fees in the United States
Criminal Defense Legal Costs in New Hampshire
Legal Costs in New Hampshire
DUI Legal Costs by State
External Resources
New Hampshire Judicial Branch
New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles
New Hampshire Bar Association
Conclusion
DUI legal costs in New Hampshire typically range from $2,500 to over $30,000, with higher expenses driven by expert involvement, high BAC results, chemical test refusal, and trial litigation. Attorney fees are only part of the total cost—court penalties, compliance programs, and license restrictions significantly affect final expenses. Early legal guidance and strict compliance remain the most effective ways to control costs.