Attorney Fee Schedule: What Does It Cost to Hire Me?

Most criminal defense attorneys won’t tell you what they charge until you’re sitting in their office. I do things differently. Every case I take is handled on a flat-fee basis — one number, agreed before you hire me, with no hourly billing and no surprise invoices. Payment plans are available, and I accept all major credit cards, Zelle, Apple Pay, PayPal, and even cryptocurrency.

Here is what cases in Ventura County generally cost:

Misdemeanor DUI

First-offense misdemeanor DUIs are generally handled for a $3,500 flat fee up to trial — and that includes the DMV hearing. Second and third offenses may be somewhat more, but are also generally $3,500. The exact fee depends on the facts and whether there are additional charges or allegations — for example, an accident, a refusal, or a high blood-alcohol enhancement.

Felony DUIs, with or without injury, are priced on a case-by-case basis.

All Other Misdemeanors

Minor Misdemeanor charges start at a $2,500 flat fee up to trial, with more serious charges priced higher. Remember: on all misdemeanors, I appear in court for you — you never have to miss work or appear yourself. Domestic violence case are slightly more.

Felonies

Straightforward felonies start at $6,000–$7,500 up to trial, but may be significantly more depending on the facts. More serious felonies are priced case by case, based on the charges, your prior record, and the overall size and scope of the case. Because every felony is different, I can’t quote a universal felony fee on this page — but I can quote your fee in a single free phone call.

What “Flat Fee Up to Trial” Means

Your flat fee covers everything through the pretrial process: every court appearance, the negotiations, the motions the case needs, and unlimited communication with me — call as often as you like, it never costs more. The reality of criminal practice is that the overwhelming majority of cases resolve before trial through dismissal, diversion, reduction, or a negotiated outcome. In the rare case that should go to trial, a separate trial fee is quoted at that point — and you’ll see that decision coming well in advance, with my honest assessment of the risks and benefits. No surprises is the whole point of flat-fee work.

Get Your Exact Quote in One Free Phone Call

Every number above is a starting point; your case gets its own quote, and getting it costs nothing. Call me directly at 805-889-9000 — I will answer personally, discuss your case with you including the possible defenses, and give you a free, exact quote for my fee. There’s no need to come to my office: the entire consultation can be done by phone, with no obligation on your part.

Available 24/7, serving Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, and all of Ventura County.