This varies, of course, by the reputation and experience of the lawyer and by the geographic location. As with doctors, generally, the more skilled the attorney and the larger the city, the higher the fee. A related factor is the amount of time a lawyer devotes to his cases: the better lawyers take fewer clients, spending more hours on each.

The range of fees is huge. A general practitioner in a small community may charge only $300; a DWI specialist with a national reputation may charge up to $10,000 or more, depending on the facts. In addition, the fee may vary by such other factors as:

1. Is the offense a misdemeanor or felony?
2. If prior convictions are alleged, the procedures for attacking them may add to the cost.
3. The fee may or may not include trial or appeals.
4. Administrative license suspension procedures may also be extra.
5. The lawyer may charge a fixed fee, or he may ask for a retainer in advance -- to be applied against hourly charges.
6. Costs such as witness fees, independent blood analysis, service of subpoenas, etc., may be extra.

Whatever the fee quoted, you should ask for a written agreement and make sure you understand all the terms.