Mukilteo BUI Attorneys

Fighting Charges of Boating Under the Influence

Mukilteo’s proximity to numerous waterways—like Puget Sound, Possession Sound, and the waters surrounding the Everett Marina—makes the area a popular spot for recreational boating and other water activities. Because of this, law enforcement maintains a strong presence on the water. The Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, Washington State Parks rangers, and the U.S. Coast Guard all routinely patrol these waterways, ensuring that boaters, swimmers, and others follow the law. 

One of these laws is the state’s rule against boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 

Many people don’t realize that Washington’s boating under the influence (BUI) laws carry serious consequences that can follow you long after a day on the water has ended. But the fact is, these cases are just as serious as DUIs, and the consequences can be just as extreme. 

If you were arrested for BUI in Mukilteo or anywhere nearby, contact DUIHeroes right away for a free, confidential consultation: (425) 296-9358.

In Washington, BUIs Carry Serious Penalties

Boating under the influence is not a minor infraction. Under RCW 79A.60.040, BUI is classified as a gross misdemeanor, the same level of charge as DUI. While the process differs somewhat from DUI, the penalties can still be significant.

Criminal penalties for BUI may include:

• Up to 364 days in jail
• Up to $5,000 in fines 
• Chemical dependency evaluation/treatment

The judge may also impose probation, community service, alcohol or drug monitoring, or other case-specific requirements. If the incident involved any property damage or injuries, restitution can also be ordered.

Although a BUI conviction does not trigger a driver’s license suspension through the Department of Licensing (DOL), the criminal record and financial impact can affect your life considerably. 

In addition to criminal penalties, a BUI conviction can: 

• Appear on background checks
• Impact job opportunities or professional licensing
• Increase insurance costs
• Limit your ability to operate a boat, jet ski, or other watercraft
• Affect security clearances or immigration-related matters

Many people are caught off guard by the ripple effects of a BUI conviction. As your Mukilteo BUI attorney, part of our job is to anticipate those consequences early and build a defense strategy that protects your long-term interests, not just the outcome of the next court date.

How BUI Differs from DUI in Washington

Washington’s boating under the influence laws share many similarities with DUI laws, including the 0.08 BAC limit for alcohol and the 5 ng/mL limit for active THC, but the procedures differ in important ways.

One of the main differences is the impact on your driver’s license. With BUI, you will not face a DOL suspension for refusing a breath test. Instead, a refusal may result in a civil infraction and fine.

Another difference is the environment in which breath tests and field sobriety tests are given. While on-land testing is far from perfect, tests administered aboard vessels can be uniquely affected by environmental factors. Breath testing devices used on the water are not always comparable to DUI breath testing instruments, and marine unit officers often rely heavily on subjective observations and non-standardized tests.

Because these cases tend to rely on officer judgment rather than structured roadside protocols, they can be affected by errors. Our BUI lawyers in Mukilteo know how to examine the prosecution’s case for holes and how to challenge the evidence. 

Why You Need a Strong Defense for Your BUI Case

BUI enforcement on local waters can be unpredictable. Officers may board based on safety equipment checks, reasonable suspicion, or even random contact during congested boating weekends. Each of these scenarios raises questions about the legality of the stop, the observations that followed, and the methods used to determine impairment.

Depending on the circumstances, your BUI defense may involve challenging:

• The basis for the stop or boarding
• The way field tests were administered
• The reliability of breath or blood tests
• Officer training related to marine impairment detection
• Any inconsistencies in bodycam, vessel footage, or written reports

Our team examines every detail to identify weaknesses that may support reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or dismissal.

Why Boaters in Mukilteo Choose DUIHeroes

At DUIHeroes, we dedicate our entire practice to DUI and DUI-related defense. Our attorneys have over 50 years of combined experience, and our team includes two former prosecutors who understand how the state prepares and prosecutes DUI and BUI cases. Founding attorney Jonathan Dichter is nationally recognized for his legal training and instruction in DUI defense, and he serves as Washington’s State Delegate and Faculty Member for the National College for DUI Defense. He is also an NHTSA-qualified SFST Instructor and author of multiple books on DUI defense.

We apply the highest level of preparation and technical knowledge to BUI cases. Because we limit our caseload, we are able to provide personal attention that includes real-time updates and direct communication with your attorney, as well as hands-on involvement from the start of your case to the finish. Our results reflect our commitment: since 2009, our firm has achieved reductions or dismissals in an average of 95% of first-offense DUI cases*.

Contact Our BUI Attorneys in Mukilteo Today

You don’t have to navigate a BUI charge alone. Whether the arrest happened near Jetty Island, the Mukilteo ferry terminal, or any of the surrounding waters, our team is ready to step in immediately to protect your rights and guide you through what comes next. We respond quickly, explain each step clearly, and ensure no detail is overlooked.

Call (425) 296-9358 or contact us online to discuss your case with an experienced Mukilteo BUI lawyer.