Boating under the influence carries similar penalties to driving under the influence.
▪️First offense BUI (with no prior BUIs or DUIs within the previous seven years) is a misdemeanor offense, potentially punishable by a county jail sentence of up to six months and fines of up to $1,000. Most first-time BUI offenders are sentenced to informal probation and DUI education.
▪️Prior offenders with a BUI or DUI within the previous seven years could possibly be sentenced to one year in jail and $1,000 in fines. It is more likely that the sentence will be formal or informal probation and 18 to 30 months of DUI education.
▪️Misdemeanor BUI may be eligible for pretrial diversion. If granted and successfully completed, pretrial diversion results in dismissal of the charges.
▪️BUI with injuries is a wobbler, meaning it can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, at the discretion of the prosecution, depending on any priors and the extent and severity of the injuries. Felony BUI is punishable by a prison sentence of up to one year and fines of up to $5,000. Aggravated felony BUI involving serious injury or death of another person can carry up to 10 years in prison.
In addition to criminal penalties, a BUI conviction can result in driver’s license or commercial vessel license suspension or revocation. It also leaves you with a permanent criminal record, which can impact future opportunities for employment, housing, education, and professional standing.
If you have been charged with BUI, our experienced Los Angeles boating under the influence defense lawyers at Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP can fight for the best possible outcome by negotiating with the prosecution, filing pre-trial motions, and defending you in court.
Learn more by visiting our website.
werksmanjackson.com/dui/boat…
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