Help Navigating Legal Waters: BUI Defense Attorneys In Florida
Spending a day on the water is a great way to have fun and relax. And in Fort Myers and Sarasota, it’s a popular pastime. However, getting arrested for boating while under the influence of drugs or alcohol can significantly disrupt your life. These charges can carry serious consequences like jail time and fines. If this happens to you, you need to work with a skilled defense attorney who can help you stay afloat and on top of these charges.
At Titan Law, our experienced lawyers are here for you. With our help, you can reduce the consequences of a BUI, sometimes even get your charges dismissed entirely.
What Is A BUI? How Can I Get Charged?
In Florida, both state and federal officials can pull you over on the water if they suspect you are driving or otherwise operating a boat while under the influence. The limit for blood alcohol content for a BUI charge is the same as a DUI: .08%. These laws in Florida prohibit people from operating any type of “vessel” while under the influence, including jet skis, pontoons and any watercraft that can be used as a means of transportation.
If you are convicted of a BUI in Florida, the penalties vary, but all have serious consequences. The type of penalty often depends on whether or not you have a prior conviction and how far above the legal limit you were at the time, but there are many factors that can contribute to your sentence. Your consequences can also be more severe if you caused an accident, property damage, injury or death.
For a first BUI offense, the penalties usually include:
- A fine from $500 to $1,000
- A maximum of six months in jail and/or probation
Each additional conviction of a BUI increases the penalties, with a third offense potentially resulting in fines of up to $5,000 and even prison time. For any kind of offense, at any time, hiring an attorney with experience in BUI defense is crucial.
BUI Vs. DUI
The process for being arrested for a BUI is very similar to that of a DUI while driving a car. The blood alcohol content limit is the same, and the consequences of a conviction are similar. In both situations, you can be breathalyzed by a police officer. A BUI will can also lead to suspension of your driver’s license, and it may be counted as a prior conviction for driving under the influence.
Our attorneys are well-equipped to assist with both BUI and DUI charges and have a wealth of experience defending clients against both.
Get Help Defending Against A BUI Charge
Let us anchor your defense in a BUI case. Our attorneys are ready to help protect your rights. Titan Law has offices in both Fort Myers and Sarasota for your convenience. Schedule an initial free consultation today to find out more about what our defense lawyers can do for you.
Call 239-361-2603 for assistance in Fort Myers, Florida, or 941-216-0203 for help in Sarasota, Florida. You may also use our online contact form to get in touch with our BUI lawyers. We’re ready to help, today.