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How Is BUI Determined?

Some individuals who take to the water may not understand BUI, or boating under the influence, charges quite as well as they understand DUI laws. Especially in a coastal state like Washington, boating is a part of the everyday life of many people, whether they fish professionally or own a vessel for recreation. While there are important differences between the two types of laws, BUI and DUI violations have similar standards for measurement, which are important for watercraft operators to know.

For more information regarding your rights as a BUI defendant, contact the Seattle BUI lawyers of the Cowan Kirk Law Firm at 1-866-822-1230 today.

Three Methods of Measurement

In Washington, BUI may be determined through three different systems of measurement. Failure of any one of these tests can result in a BUI charge, which, although not as strict as a DUI charge, remains a serious offense. The following are the three major standards for BUI detection:

  • 0.08 grams of alcohol measured in a collection of 210 liters of breath
  • 0.08 percent alcohol measured in a blood sample
  • Behavioral proof of being affected by intoxication

Unlike DUI, a person being charged with a BUI typically may refuse on-the-spot testing without severe penalties being applied. Punishments are focused on the act of boating under the influence of alcohol or other drugs itself and any damage that may have occurred as a result.

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If you have been charged with BUI, the penalties can be substantial, even though they are not as strict as those for DUI. For more information regarding the defense of your rights against these charges, contact the Seattle BUI lawyers of the Cowan Kirk Law Firm today by calling 1-866-822-1230.

Cowan Kirk Kattenhorn

Cowan Kirk is known throughout Washington and the nation for representing all of its clients with commitment, creativity and compassion. We recognize how devastating a DUI charge can be, particularly when our clients learn how incredibly tough Washington's DUI laws have become, even for a first-time offender.

Contact Us

If you need a DUI defense attorney in Seattle, Bellevue, or King County, contact us today to find out why respect for our clients, a passion for justice, and our commitment to winning have earned each of us the highest honor a member of the bar can receive from our colleagues – their referrals.

Office Location

Main Office
 (425) 822-8046 (fax)

The Supreme Court of Washington does not recognize certification of specialties in the practice of law and the certificate, award or recognition is not a requirement to practice law in the state.

PROVIDING INFORMATION DOES NOT CREATE AN ATTORNEY CLIENT RELATIONSHIP UNDER WASHINGTON LAW. ALL INFORMATION, HOWEVER, SHALL REMAIN CONFIDENTIAL.

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