Bellevue Boating Under the Influence Defense Lawyers

According to Washington’s BUI laws, a person can be arrested for BUI under many of the same circumstances as those governing a DUI arrest. These laws are meant to extend the effect of intoxicated driving laws to the water, encompassing any boating activities as well. The penalties are not usually as severe, but a conviction can still have an adverse effect on an individual’s future.

If you have been charged with BUI, it is important to remember that you are entitled to a competent and committed criminal defense. Contact the Bellevue BUI defense attorneys of the Cowan Kirk Gaston Law Firm at 866-822-1230 today.

Washington BUI Laws

The state of Washington uses BUI laws to punish those who operate a watercraft while intoxicated. The definition of a watercraft can include any number of vehicles used on the water. As is the case with drunk driving laws, it is not illegal for a person to be intoxicated while they are merely on boat. Instead, they must be the operator of the vehicle.

Intoxication for BUI cases is defined in the following ways:

• 0.08 BAC alcohol intoxication
• Illegal drug intoxication
• Prescription drug intoxication
• Intoxication by some other substance

BUI is punishable by the following penalties if a person is convicted of this crime:

• Fees
• Jail
• Loss of boating license
• Loss of motor vehicle license

Initially, a BUI is treated as a civil infraction. However, three BUIs within a single year will result in a misdemeanor charge, which carries much heavier penalties.

Contact Us

If you have been charged with BUI, the consequences of a conviction can have a serious impact on your lifestyle. For more information regarding your legal rights and options as a defendant, contact the Bellevue BUI lawyers of the Cowan Kirk Gaston Law Firm today by calling 866-822-1230.