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The criminal attorneys at Ohle & Ohle, P.A. have extensive experience and unwavering commitment to helping individuals facing charges of Boating Under the Influence (BUI). As avid boaters, our Fort Pierce BUI attorneys have a thorough understanding of the laws regulating boat owners and operators. Florida state law considers a person legally intoxicated when his or her blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level reaches 0.08% or higher. In cases involving a person under the age of 21, a BAC level of 0.02% is the minimum level to be considered legally intoxicated.

List of legal penalties for BUI charges in Florida

Many factors will determine the most appropriate defense for someone found operating a watercraft under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In addition, depending on the body of water where the incident occurred, you could face either State or Federal BUI charges. In either case, you could face multiple legal penalties when arrested for BUI including:

  • suspension of your boating license
  • significant monetary fines
  • impoundment of your boat
  • prison sentence
  • probation
  • community service
  • drug or alcohol diversion programs for treatment

If you, a family member or friend has been arrested and charged with BUI, it is extremely important that you contact a BUI defense lawyer uniquely qualified to represent you in court.

A BUI attorney at Ohle & Ohle, P.A. is available for a free consultation now. Call us to protect your rights – our law firm is committed to providing you with quality representation. We will work diligently to secure a positive outcome in your case. Call today for your free consultation at (772) 460-9801.

CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

Arrested for BUI in Fort Pierce?

Law enforcement officers face many obstacles given the factors inherent in boating that can explain the appearance of intoxication during a field sobriety exercise. “Sea Legs” can often explain a boater’s lack of balance creating the perception of intoxication while bloodshot eyes can easily be explained as a result of swimming.

In any criminal case, the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In cases involving charges of BUI, the prosecutor at a minimum must establish the following:

  • the defendant was in control of the vessel
  • the defendant had a (BAC) of 0.08% (if under 21 a BAC of 0.02%)
  • the defendant was mentally or physically impaired due to alcohol or any controlled substance

Need experienced BUI attorneys in Fort Pierce?

We are dedicated to providing our clients with a tenacious defense and ensuring your best interests are considered in any decisions that will impact your life. With more than 20 years of criminal trial experience, our BUI lawyers have the experience and knowledge to take your case to trial, have the charges dismissed or negotiate with the prosecutor to minimize the punishment based on the specific circumstances of your case.

If you have been arrested and charged with BUI in Fort Pierce, Stuart, Vero Beach or Port St. Lucie, our criminal BUI attorneys can help protect your rights and create a highly creditable defense. Remember, our initial consultation is free!

Why Choose Ohle & Ohle?
“Mike Ohle went above and beyond for my boyfriend’s case. My boyfriend got charged for a second dui amongst having many prior charges. Ohle gave us an incredible outcome of being able to reduce his dui to reckless driving and 6 months probation. I cried. I thought fir sure my boyfriend would serve time and had to serve NONE. I am beyond impress with Ohle. I highly recommend him. He doesn’t stop until the job is done and 100% always has his client’s back. Thanks beyond words, Mr. Ohle! I am spreading the word!”
~ Natalie Munao, Google Reviewer
A BUI is essentially a DUI on the water. If your BAC is found to be over the legal limit of .08 while you’re operating a vessel, you likely will be arrested and charged with BUI.
The legal BAC in Florida for a person over the age of 21 is .08%. For those under 21, legal BAC is .02%.
In Florida, a BUI ca be a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the facts associated with your unique case. For the best chance of fighting or beating BUI charges, make sure you speak with a Fort Pierce BUI attorney immediately after you’re arrested.
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(772) 460-9801