Skip to Content
Top
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.

  • A Guided, Hands-On Approach
    Step-by-Step Guidance for Any Legal Matter
  • A Compassionate Team
    Your Story Matters - We're Here to Listen
  • Extensive Experience
    Approximately 100 Years of Combined Legal Experience On Your Side
  • Award-Winning Counsel
    Top-Rated Ethics & Legal Skill – AV Preeminent® Rating
  • Trusted & Recommended
    Trusted by the Media & Recommended by Our Clients
  • Top-Rated Attorneys
    Top-Rated Personal Injury, DUI, & Criminal Defense Lawyer

Hear From Our Happy Clients

Serving Jacksonville, FL Since 2004

    "Throughout the whole process, he was responsive and dedicated and he made it seem like I was the only case he was dealing with."
    I recently worked with Jonathan Thacher and am very pleased with the outcome of the case. Throughout the whole process, he was responsive and dedicated and he made it seem like I was the only case he was dealing with. He was on top of getting the necessary measure taken and the end result was outstanding. I would definitely refer anyone to him! Thank you so much, Jonathan!!
    - Victoria B.
    "I really felt like he cared about the outcome for me."
    My experience working with Mr. Thacher was that he was incredibly knowledgeable, responsive, and took the time to explain everything to me. He took a process that I was unfamiliar with and helped me understand all my options and be able to make the best decisions in my case, and I really felt like he cared about the outcome for me. I was referred to his law office, and I highly recommend him if you're in need of a defense attorney. He will work towards the best possible outcome for your case and has a lot of experience, so you can feel confident in his advice. The phone call I received today was nothing less than thrilling! Thanks again.
    - D. W.
    "I will never be able to thank Jason Porter enough."
    Jason Porter has helped me on two separate occasions and both times his attention to detail really impressed me. His staff is wonderful and easy to work with. The second time I worked with Jason Porter, he turned what I thought was a hopeless situation into a miracle. He literally got me my life back by getting the charges reduced. His experience as a trial lawyer came in handy when he had to work with the district attorney to change the judge's mind on my case. Jason Porter has a calming demeanor and he instilled confidence when going over the details of my case. I tended to be pessimistic, but Jason Porter would always reassure me and keep me positive. I will never be able to thank Jason Porter enough for all that he has done for me and my family. I hope I never need a lawyer again, but if I do I know I can count on Jason Porter to give me my best chance at a favorable outcome.
    - Michael C.
    "Mr. Porter was very friendly and knowledgeable."
    Mr. Porter helped me in 2010 with a Breach of Contract case in which he was able to recover my earned commissions from my former employer. Mr. Porter was very friendly and knowledgeable in the area of Non Compete agreements which allowed for a quick settlement from my former employer. The staff was great and addressed my issues and questions in a timely fashion. I would recommend Mr. Porter to anyone that has a case in the areas he practices in.
    - John
    "They will work with you and fight for you."
    If you're reading this then it is not too late!! I too spent countless time searching for the right law firm for me personally and let me tell you that Jason Porter and associates have to be the best around town!! They will work with you and fight for you. If you have any problems, Pick PORTER. I promise you won't regret it!!!
    - Boss N.
    "I highly recommend Mr. Porter and his team"
    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.
    "My life is in a much better place today because of Jason's integrity within the community and relationships with the judges & state attorneys."
    I have had several cases with Mr. Porter as my attorney. He went to bat for me and fought hard to get a great outcome every time! He is a top-notch attorney in Jacksonville and very professional & honest when dealing with each scenario of my cases. My life is in a much better place today because of Jason's integrity within the community and relationships with the judges & state attorneys.
    - Josh C.
    "When needed, you answered my questions clearly and politely."
    The purpose of this letter is to compliment your law office and its associates on its excellent service. When needed, you answered my questions clearly and politely, offered recommendations, and worked expediently to ensure that all possible aspects of my case have been covered and researched.
    - Anonymous

Pick Porter!™ Today

A member of our team will be in touch shortly to confirm your contact details or address questions you may have.

  • *Motorcycle accident - $2,835,000
  • $1,502,500 Premises Liability - $1,502,500

    Bodily Injury Claim

  • *Wrongful Death - $1,000,000
  • Settled *Estate of Fred Fedorka

    Largest settlement ever against Volusia County.

  • *Medical Malpractice - $500,000