Boating Under the Influence in Miami

Understanding Florida BUI Laws

Boating and water sports are a favorite pastime of many residents throughout Florida and to a multitude of vacationers every year. Unfortunately, law enforcement's desire to crack down on boating under the influence (BUI) offenses may turn what was once a good time into an arrest and serious criminal charges.

In Florida, BUI charges are handled in much the same way as drunk driving cases, including the same or similar enforcement of criminal penalties upon a conviction. However, a Miami BUI conviction cannot result in the direct suspension of a defendant's driver's license.

BUI Charges in Florida

Boating under the influence may be classified as a misdemeanor or felony offense in Florida. A conviction may result in imprisonment, as well as heavy fines and court fees, probation, and mandatory alcohol treatment or rehabilitation.

Although a first offender may be shown some leniency by the court, this is not guaranteed and in all a defendant will have a much better chance of avoiding imprisonment or a conviction altogether by involving a Miami BUI lawyer.

Do I need a lawyer for my BUI case?

Have you or someone you know been accused of or arrested for boating under the influence in South Florida? Miami DUI attorney Michael Mirer can help. You may have had one or two drinks while on the water or before taking your boat out. You may have been stopped by law enforcement simply because they were on the lookout for drunk boaters or because you were involved in a minor accident with another boat.

Although you may have taken a breath test that showed your blood alcohol concentration was over the legal limit, this does not immediately guarantee a conviction. An experienced attorney can work to challenge all evidence that has been brought against you and can often successfully question breath test results.

For more information on how to fight your boating under the influence charges, contact a Miami BUI lawyer at the Law Office of Michael Mirer, P.A. today.