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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

    "The best attorneys you will find. I love you guys!"
    Two very scary DUI cases in my life. The first involved a wreck, the second with a very high BAC. Jason Porter and Gary Shumard, you are both so very amazing and you have saved me so much havoc on these cases. Reduced to reckless on the first, and on the second, saved me from having the interlock system order in my car, another 10 days of immobilization, and more jail time. From the beginning, these two kept my anxieties calm through this process and the outcomes took all that load off. If you are financially strapped, trust me, they will work with you on that too. Sincerely.
    - Gale B.
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    I am so incredibly grateful for picking Porter. Jonathan Thacher was definitely there when I needed a lawyer.
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    Outstanding experience. Very on top of it, quick responses, friendly, and very informative. Not much more I could have asked for. Pick Porter!
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    "Ms. Carlucci provides great support and promotes collaboration with her clients."

    My divorce litigated for close to two years as it was highly contentious and involved more complexities. Ms. Carlucci did a wonderful job of helping me understand and navigate the legal system. Ms. Carlucci set realistic expectations and was willing to listen to my concerns, questions, and thoughts. Divorce can be a very grueling and hard process. Ms. Carlucci provides great support and promotes collaboration with her clients.

    - Former Client
    "Jason Porter excellent attorney"
    Jason Porter is an excellent attorney. I'm very happy with the results. he saved me money and solved my problem.
    - John P.
    "Will definitely use them in the future if need be."
    Retain them you’re in great hands! They will get the job done. Got my case dismissed. Will definitely use them in the future if need be.
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    "Every time I have "Picked Porter" I have received ethical advice and excellent legal representation."
    I have been a client of the law firm since 2003. Every time I have "Picked Porter" I have received ethical advice and excellent legal representation. There has been times I have been referred outside of the law firm and the referrals have always been sound and very appropriate to the overall situation. The law firms family law, personal injury and criminal defense attorneys are well versed in their specialty and are very professional. If you have a problem, Pick Porter.
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    Mr. Richard Watson was recommended to me by a friend after I was in a car accident. With no prior experience with auto accidents in Florida, I had to learn about PIP, settling with the at-fault driver's insurance company, working with my own health insurance company, and the subrogation process. Mr. Watson was responsive and professional, he offered guidance that assured me I understood each step of the process and was diligent about communication at each step. I am grateful to have received such a terrific recommendation, and I'm happy to have met Mr. Watson. I highly recommend him and the Porter firm.
    - Kally M.

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