I am often asked what a DUI conviction will cost.  While no similar numbers are available for Ohio, this California example is compelling.  In 2004, Research for the Automobile Club of Southern California stated that a motorist convicted of a first-time DUI offense in California currently faces a total cost of $12,116. The cost includes minimum fines, $468; penalties, $780; vehicle towing and impound, $187; alcohol education class, $500; increase in auto insurance, $7,300; victim restitution fund, $100; DMV license reissue fee, $125; booking, fingerprinting and photo fee, $156, and attorney and legal fees, $2,500.