Jacksonville BUI Defense Lawyer for Boating Charges

Understanding Boating Under the Influence Charges in Florida

If a boater is arrested for boating under the influence, they can be charge with a BUI. The consequences for boating under the influence (BUI) can be as severe as what occurs in a DUI case. Florida is known for its wide variety of boating options. Oceans, bays, rivers, lakes and tributaries all provide people in Florida a variety of boating options. Fishing, cruising, water skiing, jet skiing and other boating activities go hand in hand with the consumption of alcoholic beverages.

However, having consumed alcohol does not mean that someone driving the boat is impaired or drunk. Nevertheless, because Florida is a boater’s paradise there are a lot of people on the water. Problems can result when someone captaining a boat has consumed too much alcohol. For this reason, Florida and federal law enforcement agencies that patrol the waterways have made the enforcement of BUI a priority.

Being charged with BUI is considered a crime just like DUI. Convictions for BUI charges could result in jail, probation, community service, fines, and other forms of punishment not to mention a permanent criminal record. Further, impoundment and forfeiture of boats, loss of boating privileges, or captain’s licenses and even driving privileges can result.

What Are the Consequences of Boating Under the Influence in Florida?

It is not against the law to drink alcohol while operating a boat. Nevertheless, enforcement officers can charge someone with BUI if your breath or blood alcohol level is .08 or above and/or if you are too impaired by alcohol or drugs to operate a boat or personal watercraft safely.

The penalties escalate for:

• BUI manslaughter*
• BUI causing serious bodily injury*
• Repeat offenses (prior BUI or DUI)
• Breath or Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) over .15
• BUI with minors aboard
• BUI causing property damage

*A BUI accident resulting in death or serious injury are prosecuted as felony crimes and can carry prison sentences of 5 to 30 years.

Although BUI and DUI may be similar there are important differences between the BUI laws and DUI laws and there are differences in how the cases are investigated. BUI defense attorney Mitch Stone knows the specific BUI laws and understands how to defend these cases. He has successfully challenged the prosecution's evidence and the procedures of law enforcement officers from FWC, US Fish and Wildlife, US Coast Guard and other officers involved in the prosecution of these cases.

Other Boating Offenses We Handle in Jacksonville:

• Reckless boating
• Unregistered vessel
• Equipment violations
• Boating in unauthorized areas
• No-wake zone and right-of-way violations

Local Assistance for BUI Charges in Jacksonville

Living in Jacksonville, you know that the St. Johns River and the Atlantic Ocean are popular spots for boating and water activities. However, with the increased presence of law enforcement agencies such as the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office Marine Unit, the risk of being charged with Boating Under the Influence (BUI) is significant. These agencies are vigilant in patrolling our local waterways.

One of the common pain points for boaters in Jacksonville is the misunderstanding of what constitutes a BUI. Many locals enjoy a day out on the water with friends and family, often accompanied by alcoholic beverages. However, it's crucial to understand that a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher can lead to severe penalties, including jail time, fines, and loss of boating privileges. 

Another concern for Jacksonville residents is the impact of a BUI conviction on their driving record. A BUI can be treated as a prior offense for future DUI charges, leading to harsher penalties. This interconnectedness between BUI and DUI laws can be confusing and stressful for those unfamiliar with the legal system. Our team understands these local nuances and can help you navigate through them.

We are well-versed in the specific challenges faced by boaters in Jacksonville and the First Coast region. Whether you were cited on the Atlantic Ocean, the St. Johns River, or any other local waterway, we have the experience and local knowledge to provide the support you need. 

Get the BUI Defense You Deserve

Mitch Stone will do everything legally possible to help clients avoid a BUI conviction. He understands the importance of achieving a favorable result because a BUI Conviction can be treated as a prior offense for someone later arrested for DUI in a motor vehicle. Likewise, a DUI conviction can enhance a boating under the influence charge and result in more severe punishment if convicted.

Mitchell A. Stone, P.A. has represented clients arrested or cited on the Atlantic Ocean, the St. Johns River, the Intercoastal Waterway and other waterways in the First Coast region. Call our experienced boating and FWC violation lawyer at (904) 263-5005 for a free consultation.