In North Carolina, drunk drivers lose their license on the spot and more:
Tab for first-time DWI offender
Fines $4,000
Average Yearly Insurance Increase $2,660
Attorney's Fees $1,000
Jury Trial - Appeals $1,000
Court Costs - District Court $90
Court Costs - Superior Court $115
Alternative Transportation $250
Substance Abuse Assessment/Treatment $350
Alcohol/Drug Education Traffic School $75
License Reinstatement Fees $100
Total $9,640
http://www.ncdot.org/secretary/ghsp/BoozeIt/dwitab.html Officially 9,640 dollars or just hire a good lawyer for $400 and he pays a DMV employee under the table to enter a lesser charge. That's what those in the know do.