BUI (Boating Under the Influence) in Bellevue

Washington state has the best boating in the country. With beautiful waters like Lake Washington, Puget Sound, and the San Juan Islands, boat lovers can get out on the water year-round. However, it's easy to forget the risks of operating a boat while drunk or high and having fun, whether you're enjoying a relaxing day on the water or taking part in a local event like the Seafair in Seattle.

To protect our stunning waters, Washington state takes Boating Under the Influence (BUI) seriously. Just like driving a vehicle while impaired, operating a boat while impaired has severe legal consequences. If you find yourself facing BUI charges in Bellevue, you need experienced legal help to navigate the process––you need our Bellevue BUI defense team.

A BUI conviction in Bellevue carries serious consequences. Our experienced attorneys will defend your rights and protect your interests by:

• Providing expert legal guidance
• Protecting your constitutional rights throughout proceedings
• Developing strategies to minimize potential penalties
• Working to reduce long-term impacts on your career and personal life
• Helping you retain your boating privileges

When facing BUI charges in Bellevue, having skilled attorneys by your side will positively impact the outcome of your case. Our team will examine all evidence against you and ensure strict adherence to proper legal procedures, giving you the strongest possible defense. We'll push for fair treatment and leniency.

In Washington state, the legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) for boating is the same as it is for driving: 0.08% or higher. If law enforcement catches you operating a boat with a BAC at or above this level, you can face serious consequences. However, even if your BAC is below the legal limit, Bellevue law enforcement can still charge you with a BUI if alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both impair your ability to operate the boat. The penalties for a BUI conviction in Washington state include:

• Up to 1 year in jail
• Fines of up to $5,000
• Boating license suspension up to 90 Days
• Probation

If you have more than one BUI, you will face longer prison sentences, higher fines, and longer license suspension. For repeat offenders, the courts will also install an ignition interlock device on any vehicle used for boating.

Aggravating factors also significantly increase the penalties for BUI conviction. If operating a boat while impaired leads to injuries or even death, the consequences are much more severe and could result in felony charges. Similarly, causing property damage, such as other boats or structures, can also heighten the penalties associated with a BUI. Further, you could be liable for damages if you caused an accident or other property damage.

A Boating Under the Influence (BUI) charge has lasting consequences beyond the immediate legal penalties. A conviction for BUI lands on your criminal record, impacting your ability to secure employment, especially in industries that require background checks or positions involving responsibility. Further, a BUI conviction also increases your insurance premiums both for your boat and car, making it more expensive to maintain your lifestyle. The social stigma of a criminal conviction could also affect your reputation, especially if the charge involves accidents or injuries. A BUI charge can extend to many areas of your life, so you must get a strong defense against conviction.

Here's an overview of the legal process in Washington state if you have a BUI in King County:

1. You Are Arrested And Detained: If suspected of impairment, you may be stopped and subjected to sobriety tests. Refusing tests can result in extra penalties. Arrest occurs if your BAC is over 0.08% or if you seem impaired.
2. You Go Through Booking, And Bail Is Set: Following the arrest, you'll be booked at a local jail, where your details are recorded, and you'll learn about the charges. You may be able to post bail or be released on your own recognizance, depending on the case severity.
3. You Will Appear At King County Court: Your first court appearance, the arraignment, will happen within a few days of arrest. You'll enter a plea, and your attorney will begin evaluating the evidence and any procedural errors.
4. You Will Hire A Defense Attorney: You'll engage an experienced Bellevue BUI defense attorney, who will review all evidence, challenge the tests' reliability, negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing, and protect your rights if violated during the arrest.
5. Your Case Will Go To Trial: If going to trial, your attorney will present a defense, possibly including expert testimony. If resolved without trial, through a plea deal, or dismissal, your attorney will ensure you understand all agreement terms.

Your Bellevue attorney will help you post-conviction. If the judge rules you are guilty, they can appeal the decision if necessary, handle the suspension of your boating privileges, and help you comply with any penalties like community service or drug/alcohol treatment programs.

Bellevue has so many beautiful bodies of water that are perfect for boating, from the scenic Lake Washington to the nearby Mercer Slough Nature Park. Whether you're enjoying a day on Lake Chelan or navigating the waters near Newcastle Beach Park, the city offers plenty of opportunities for water recreation. However, with fun comes responsibility. Boating under the influence (BUI) is a serious offense in King County. Getting caught can lead to significant penalties, including losing boating privileges.

Call us today so we can prevent this from happening. We believe every BUI charge can be successfully challenged in court. With our experience and knowledge of the King County justice system, we'll fight for your rights and work to minimize the impact of the charge on your freedom and enjoyment of the water.

To most casual observers, a BUI is self-explanatory. While a DUI is when you are driving a vehicle, a BUI is when you are driving a boat. A BUI is also a gross misdemeanor, which means comes with a maximum penalty of 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine. Other potential penalties include court/administrative fees, probation, and court ordered classes.

However, there are also several very big differences. Most notably, a BUI charge will not impact your driver’s license.  There is no suspension on your license nor is there an ignition interlock requirement on your car.

Another big difference is how a refusal impacts your case. With a DUI, a refusal will result in higher penalties and can be used against you. With a BUI, a refusal cannot be used against you, and there are not harsher penalties with the criminal case. However, a refusal will typically result in an extremely harsh infraction which comes with a fine over $1,000!  This infraction is separate from the criminal case and typically, will be handled before the criminal case is even filed.

Whether you are facing a BUI or a refusal infraction in Bellevue, give our office a call. Our experienced Bellevue DUI & BUI lawyers will be able to walk you through the process and prepare you for what may lay ahead.