BUI Attorney in Bellevue

Boating Under the Influence in Washington State

If you’ve been arrested for boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs (BUI), you know all too well that Washington’s laws against operating a vehicle while impaired don’t just apply to driving a car. BUI is a serious charge, one that carries harsh criminal penalties. If you have been arrested for BUI in Washington State, talk to a lawyer right away. At DUIHeroes, we have extensive experience handling BUI cases and dedicate 100% of our practice to DUI defense. Our Bellevue BUI lawyers are ready to protect your rights and aggressively advocate for you in court and other legal proceedings.

Call (425) 296-9358 or contact us online to discuss your rights and options during a free consultation. Find out how our Bellevue DUI attorneys can help with your boating case!

Understanding Washington’s BUI Laws

In Washington, it is against the law to operate any type of vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including marijuana. Generally speaking, you are considered to be “under the influence” if you have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or above or a THC concentration of 5.0 nanograms or above. However, you can be arrested for and charged with BUI if you are found to be impaired by alcohol or drugs in a way that inhibits your ability to safely operate a vessel. 

Additionally, the state’s implied consent laws, which apply to DUI cases, also apply to BUI cases. This means that, when you operate a vessel, whether a boat or a personal watercraft, in the state of Washington, you have automatically given your consent to be given a breath test to determine your BAC when an officer has reason to believe you may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs while operating a vessel. Refusal is a class 1 civil infraction, punishable by RCW 7.80.120.

What Are the Penalties for BUI in Washington?

In most cases, BUI is charged as a gross misdemeanor in Washington State. 

In Bellevue, a BUI conviction may result in: 

• Up to 364 days in jail
• Maximum fines of $5,000
• Up to 2 years of probation

The unique circumstances of each case, such as whether there was an accident resulting in bodily injury or death, can affect the potential penalties. In any case, it’s important to talk to a knowledgeable Bellevue BUI attorney who can walk you through your options, including which defenses may be available to you.

Potential Defenses to BUI Charges in Bellevue 

Being arrested for BUI does not mean that you will automatically be convicted. Remember: You are innocent unless proven guilty; the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were, in fact, operating a vessel while impaired by alcohol or drugs. There are many potential defenses to BUI charges. The exact strategy that makes sense for your case will depend on the details of your situation.

Some possible defenses include: 

• Questioning the Stop: Did the officer have valid, reasonable cause to stop the vessel and/or administer a BAC test? Was it an unlawful stop or seizure?
• Arguing the Results of a Field Sobriety Test: Field sobriety tests, which do not rely on BAC data, are often unreliable when administered aboard vessels.
• Challenging the Validity of a Breath or Blood Test: Was the test properly administered? Was the breathalyzer or other device properly calibrated?
• Proving Lack of Impairment: Were the defendant’s symptoms due to another cause, such as a medical condition or fatigue?
• Challenging Vessel Operation: In some cases, it may be possible to prove that you were not the one operating the vessel.

Our Bellevue BUI attorneys build defenses around the specific details of each case. Whether the officer’s search and seizure violated your constitutional rights or you were not the one operating the vessel, our team can devise a personalized defense strategy on your behalf. We fight tirelessly to protect your rights and safeguard your future from the harsh consequences of a conviction.

Why Choose Us for Your BUI Defense?

Working with an attorney after a BUI arrest is important. Finding the right attorney matters. A conviction could have serious implications, resulting in potential jail time, significant fines, a permanent criminal record, and other consequences that may significantly affect your life now and in the future. At DUIHeroes, we understand the seriousness of your situation, and we are ready to help.

Our firm exclusively practices DUI and DUI-related criminal defense. We have a long history of handling BUI cases in Bellevue and throughout Washington State, as well as a proven record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients. Since 2009, we have achieved dismissals or charge reductions in 95% of first-offense cases*. Our team strives to always be available to assist you and give you updates on your case.

With DUIHeroes, you get a personalized approach to your BUI defense. When you choose our firm, you will never be treated as just another case; you’ll be treated as a real person, facing what may be one of the most challenging and stressful times in your life. Our Bellevue BUI lawyers understand what you are going through, and we’re here to provide the aggressive, highly skilled defense you deserve. 

Arrested for BUI in Bellevue? Contact Us Now

After an arrest for boating under the influence, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is who you choose to represent you. We urge you to take action now—contact our firm right away to learn more about how we can help you fight your charges and protect your future. Our team is standing by, ready to take your call and answer any questions you may have.

Schedule a free consultation with a BUI lawyer in Bellevue today. Call us at (425) 296-9358 or contact us online.

FAQ: Commonly Asked Questions About BUI in Bellevue

What are the penalties for a BUI conviction?

In Washington, a BUI conviction can lead to fines, possible jail time, and restrictions on boating privileges. Penalties may vary depending on BAC levels, prior offenses, and the presence of aggravating factors. Beyond direct criminal penalties, individuals may be required to attend mandatory community service and/or alcohol and drug programs. 

Will I lose my driver’s license if I get a BUI? 

Unlike with DUI, there is no automatic driver’s license suspension with BUI. However, if you refuse a breathalyzer or blood test, you could face consequences that include a significant fine. Additionally, in Washington, BUI may count as a “prior offense” if you are arrested for DUI in the future. This could lead to harsher DUI penalties, including an extended license suspension period. 

What should I do if I was arrested for BUI in Bellevue?

After a BUI arrest, stay calm, polite, and cooperative but avoid making any statements or answering any incriminating questions, including questions about your alcohol consumption or drug use. Instead, immediately contact a Bellevue BUI defense attorney who can explain your legal options and begin protecting your rights. At DUIHeroes, we offer free consultations, so you can talk to a lawyer right away at no initial cost.