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Boating DUI

Boating DUI Attorney in the United States

Charged With Boating Under the Influence (BUI)?

Most people in the United States, even visitors, are well aware that driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a criminal offense that carries serious penalties. Few, however, are familiar with the state’s similar stance on boating under the influence.

If you or someone you love has been charged with a boating DUI (or “BUI”) on any lake, ocean, or waterway, our award-winning legal team at Premier Criminal Defense is available to help you navigate the process ahead.

Though cases vary, BUI is a serious criminal charge, and it can put significant penalties and terms of imprisonment on the table. By acting immediately to enlist the representation of a proven defense attorney, you can better protect your rights, freedom, and future.

Why Premier Criminal Defense?

  • Experienced Attorneys With Proven Results
  • Committed to Personalized & Aggressive Defense
  • 24/7 Availability & Free Consultations
  • Affordable Rates for Clients Facing Criminal Charges

Learn more about your rights, options, and how Premier Criminal Defense can help you following any type of DUI or boating under the influence charge. Contact us to request a free case review.

Boating Under the Influence Charges

While many crimes are codified under California’s Penal Code or Vehicle Code, boating under the influence falls under Harbors & Navigation Code § 655. Per state law, it is a crime to:

  • Operate any boat/vessel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol;
  • Operation a recreational boat with a BAC of .08 or higher;
  • Operate a commercial boat/vessel with a BAC of .04 or higher; or
  • Operate a vessel while under the influence and causing injury to another (the equivalent of DUI causing injury).

Boating Under the Influence Penalties

Penalties imposed upon those convicted of BUI range from case to case, just as they do with DUI charges. In California, the penalty for boating under the influence is classified as a misdemeanor but can be increased to a felony charge if it is proven that you have a high BAC level or your actions have caused harm to someone else. If convicted of boating under the influence, the penalties you will face may include:

  • Misdemeanor charge: up to 1 year in county jail with a fine up to $1,000
  • Felony charge: up to 1 year in prison with a fine up to $5,000
  • Aggravated Felony charge (causing death or serious injury to another person): 16 months, 24 months, or up to 10 years in prison
  • Suspension or revocation of your commercial vessel license and/or driver’s license
  • A permanent criminal record
  • Required participation in treatment for drug or alcohol rehabilitation

The severity of the penalties you may face will depend on any prior BUI convictions in the past seven years.

Protecting Your Rights and Future

Law enforcement and prosecutors can arrest and charge individuals for all types of reasons, lawfully and unlawfully. However, it is the government’s burden to prove any charges against you beyond a reasonable doubt – and your right to wage a defense against their allegations.

At Premier Criminal Defense, our legal team has staked their careers on fighting for clients charged with crimes – from BUI and DUI to the most serious felony charges and federal indictments. Our firm is focused on safeguarding clients’ futures, and we work aggressively to build the personalized defense strategies that allow them to pursue victories for inadmissible evidence, unlawful searches and seizures, Constitutional violations, charge or penalty reductions, and other appropriate actions.

Talk to an Experienced DUI Attorney in California

Because BUI cases can be complex, and because there are far-reaching consequences on the line, it’s in your best interests to speak with an experienced defense attorney at soon as you can. Call (619) 374-1268 or contact us online to get started. Premier Criminal Defense serves clients throughout San Diego and the surrounding areas of Southern California.

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