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Boating Under the Influence Serving Families Throughout Jacksonville For Over 25 Years

Jacksonville BUI Lawyer

Arrested for Boating Under the Influence? Call (904) 701-0591 Today

The state of Florida is home to an avid population of recreational boaters who enjoy the lakes and oceans of Florida on a regular occasion. Recreational boating is one of the major pastimes for retired citizens and families alike and the weather is almost always compatible. In order to promote safety of these boaters, Florida law enforcement has gone to great lengths to remind citizens that they have a responsibility to drink responsibly while in control of a moving vehicle, especially boats.

While the law states that an officer of the law must have a reasonable cause to pull over a motor vehicle, the same does not apply to a boat. State boating officials can pull stop and board a boat simply to check a boat's registration or to conduct a safety investigation. This means that you may receive a boating under the influence citation even if you are not demonstrating impairment.

An officer can insist upon a field sobriety test once he or she is aboard your boat. The laws dictating the officer's actions put boaters at a higher risk for receiving BUI citations even though the standards for determining intoxication are the same. For this reason, it is important to contact a Jacksonville DUI lawyer from our firm immediately after you have received a BUI. There are many defenses that an attorney can employ on your behalf, but it is important to start your defense case early.

Hiring a Jacksonville BUI Lawyer

Florida currently leads the nation in boating fatalities. One of the main contributors to these fatalities is accidents caused by boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Sometimes, drivers are unaware of how being on the water can amplify the intoxicating effects of alcohol or drugs. Water distractions such a sea sickness, drastic weather conditions and more can all interfere with a driver's ability to operate his or her boat in a safe manner. If you have been charged with a BUI, you need to be aware of the consequences that you will face if convicted.

The following are some of the penalties associated with a BUI:

  • Fine of $500 for first-time offenders;
  • Up to six months in jail for first-time offenders; and
  • Mandatory boating safety course approved by the state

These penalties only worsen as the number of violations increases. If a BUI involves bodily injury, the presence of a minor or a fatality, the consequences may include prison time. Don't risk your future freedom; contact a talented Jacksonville BUI lawyer who you can trust. With approximately 100 years of combined legal experience, our legal team knows what it will take to clear your charges of boating under the influence.

We will fight tirelessly on your behalf both in and out of the courtroom, so call our Jacksonville DUI attorney at (904) 701-0591 today.

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Hear From Our Happy Clients

Serving Jacksonville, FL Since 2004

    "Jonathan Thacher made me feel like I had someone on my side from beginning to end."
    I am so happy and grateful that I picked Porter!! Jonathan Thacher made me feel like I had someone on my side from beginning to end. He told me he would fight for me, and I am thrilled to say he did just that! I was always able to reach him, and he made sure to reach out to me as well...and that means a lot. I highly recommend The Porter Law Firm to any and everyone who needs legal help! They will fight for you!!! I can say, without a doubt, they have been my "Dream Team" and if I ever need any kind of legal help, I will be calling them again!!!
    - Lindsi W.
    "Mr. Porter and his staff do an incredible job!"
    Mr. Porter and his staff do an incredible job! I would strongly recommend Mr. Porter, he is very easy to work with and does everything he can to help you in your situation.
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    "The experience was just wonderful! We would recommend them 10 times over."
    My fiancé and I were referred here by a friend. Our lawyer was Nicole Carlucci and paralegal was Danielle Castillo, they were beyond wonderful. Easy to communicate with, always gave us our options and never made us feel pressured. Our relationship with them was very personable and we always felt as if we were their only clients! We seeked their help with regards to child support and time sharing. The experience was just wonderful!!!!! We would recommend them 10 times over.
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    Very attentive to the needs of my case. This firm was prompt and on point with the affairs surrounding my case and paid attention to the special details. Overall, I received the results I was hoping for and expecting. Thank you guys for a job well done.
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    "The Best I Could Imagine!!!"
    I used Jason Porters services after a bad roll over accident involving myself and my ALMOST 1 year old daughter when I lived in Jacksonville. Within 24 hours of contacting the office, I was seen by 2 physicians and my case was in full motion. My husband was deployed, and I was scared at first. However, Mr. Porter and his ENTIRE staff had me at immediate ease. I could email or call his assistant at any hour with any concern, and would have a response very quickly. I would highly recommend this office to anyone at any time. The compassion of the entire staff was more than I could have expected.
    - Robyn S.
    "He definitely knows his stuff and because of that, we were able to get a fair and reasonable outcome in the matter."
    Mr. Jason Porter was very professional and detailed throughout the entire process. He was always available for any questions and if he wasn't sure about something, he would provide a quick turnaround time with the follow-up answer. He definitely knows his stuff and because of that, we were able to get a fair and reasonable outcome in the matter. His staff was very nice and professional as well. I would definitely refer anyone to him. Thanks again, Mr. Porter!!!
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    "Excellent attorneys and staff"
    My family has worked with Mr. Porter several times over the years. Each of our experiences were different but the outcome was the same. We all had extremely positive results. I have referred many friends and family to Mr. Porter for assistance, and I will continue to highly recommend the firm to anyone in need of legal services.
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