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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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A Guided, Hands-On ApproachStep-by-Step Guidance for Any Legal Matter
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A Compassionate TeamYour Story Matters - We're Here to Listen
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Extensive ExperienceApproximately 100 Years of Combined Legal Experience On Your Side
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Award-Winning CounselTop-Rated Ethics & Legal Skill – AV Preeminent® Rating
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Trusted & RecommendedTrusted by the Media & Recommended by Our Clients
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Top-Rated AttorneysTop-Rated Personal Injury, DUI, & Criminal Defense Lawyer
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Hear From Our Happy Clients
Serving Jacksonville, FL Since 2004
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First off let me say how much I love this law firm!!! My boyfriend was referred by a friend and I'm glad we listened! This was the first time we ever needed a lawyer and Richard Watson was INCREDIBLE! He knows his stuff and he doesn't settle for anything less than what we deserved! We loved talking to Bonnie when we called she was always so cheerful and helpful! I recommend YOU to choose this office!!!!!! I promise you won't be disappointed !!!! I will definitely be using them again if I ever need to!- Sara B.
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I'd been accused of something I did not do. My situation was a total nightmare. I consulted with Attorney Porter and he assured me that my tough situation could be handled. Attorney Gary Shumar tirelessly worked my case, while showing patience and empathy when I felt frustrated. Needless to say, my charges were dropped. I highly recommend this firm.- Nikki
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I am incredibly grateful to Mr. Porter and his team for their exceptional work. Within just a month, they were able to resolve my case, proving that there had been a mistake. Their expertise, dedication, and quick action made all the difference. I highly recommend Mr. Porter and his team to anyone in need of top-notch legal representation.- M.D.
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First and foremost, everyone from staff to the attorneys are all great!! I first started with the firm in 2015 and due to my own circumstances, I was unable to complete the needed court requirements in order to finalize my case. The amount I paid to retain an attorney was placed in a trust and they assured me it would be there until I completed my requirements. 4 years later they kept their word and finalized my case once I completed my needed court requirement. Everything was professional and in a timely fashion on their behalf. They also found a second issue that needed to be resolved and also completed that for me. Although I hope to never need their services again, if I do, I will definitely be giving them a call. Thank you, everyone!- Erik R.
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If I could give 10 stars, I would. I was blessed to have selected first, from a long list of lawyers, Jason Porter. From our first meeting, Jason was kind, comforting, and non-judgmental. Jason and his team fought long and hard for me, and our outcome was as predicted, far better than I was expecting considering my initial circumstances. A heart felt Thank You to Jason, Jonathan, and Darlene.- S.H.
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Jason is a fantastic attorney. He has been our attorney for years. He was highly recommended to me and I'm so glad he was. I can call him ANYTIME and he will talk with me. If you are in need of an attorney, you won't go wrong with Jason.- Terrell H.
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Very knowledgeable and experienced Law Firm! Stress, Depression, Anxiety relief 🥲!
I would use again myself if needed and recommend Porter Law Firm 💯 %- H.Y. -
Jason and his firm came highly recommended by my family member. My son's case would have eventually ended up with negative consequences if not for Jonathan Thatcher. Jonathan was supportive, knowledgeable and kept us informed at all stages of the case. Great firm and appreciate all your hard work in the success of my son's case. I would use this firm again and again.- Kim J.
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