Close X

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 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 Law Firm today by calling 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.

LawLytics