Understand the financial breakdown of DUI Defense within San Diego, California's jurisdiction. Our 2025 data covers mandatory court fees and localized attorney pricing.
Planning for DUI Defense in San Diego, California requires a clear understanding of both mandatory government fees and discretionary service costs. In 2025, individuals pursuing this legal action typically encounter an average total investment of $4,906.
Compared to the United States national average of $5,000, legal costs in San Diego, California are fairly consistent with the baseline.
The initial barrier to entry in the California court system begins with the mandatory filing fees. For DUI Defense, these non-refundable charges range between $630 and $770 depending on the specific county and local surcharges. While you are searching specifically within San Diego, California, it's important to note that most administrative pricing is set at the state level, though local attorney availability can significantly influence the final attorney retainer.
Based on verified jurisdictional data
Avg. Attorney Rate
$395/hour
Estimated Total
Disclaimer: This is a rough estimate based on California averages. Actual costs vary by county and specific circumstances.
The costs provided are estimates based on historical data and local fee structures. Legal fees vary by complexity and attorney experience. This site does not provide legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is formed by using this tool.
Prepare and file the petition with the local California court.
Exchange of information and legal evidence between parties.
Mandatory or voluntary negotiation to reach an agreement.
Final court hearing and issuance of legal decree.
The cost of DUI Defense in California can be significantly reduced by following these strategic steps:
Compare live 2025 jurisdictional rates from neighboring states.
Reviewed by Research Team
Last Verified: 2025