Skip to Content
SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION TODAY! 562-330-4173
Top
BUI BOATING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

California Boating 
DUI Lawyers

A Knowledgeable Legal Team Protecting Your Rights

Also known as boating under the influence, boating DUI, BUI, DUI boating, or drunk boating, boating under the influence can happen in a lake, a river, or on the ocean. Operating a boat or any watercraft while under the influence of drugs or alcohol (at or above a blood-alcohol concentration, or BAC of .08%) is much like driving a vehicle while under the influence: it is a criminal offense in the state of California.

For tenacious and experienced guidance following a criminal charge, call (562) 330-4173 and speak to our boating DUI attorneys in California today.

    "This is a top level law firm. The Bible of DUI's comes from this firm!"

    This is a top level law firm. The Bible of DUI's comes from this firm! These are the guys other attorneys call when they are ...

    Tania C.
    "They will fight strategically to help you win your case."

    These are the best lawyers in LA/OC when it comes to DUI cases. They will fight strategically to help you win your case. My ...

    Kendall L.
    "I would recommend this firm with no qualms!"

    I received counsel in a sensitive legal matter from Lawrence Taylor Sr., and his advice was spot on. I did some research and ...

    Jerry S.
    "Christopher always made me aware of what was going on with my hearings, and got me the best outcome possible."

    When you need to get a lawyer, you aren't usually in a great situation. I wasn't at least. Christopher and his team never ...

    Jessica S.
    "Jeanne Normandeau is a great lawyer. She knows how the Riverside court judges work."

    Jeanne Normandeau is a great lawyer. She knows how the Riverside court judges work. She will fight for you and will get you ...

    Joe E.
    "Mrs. Normandeau is by far the hardest-working and most diligent attorney I have ever met."

    I cannot express enough gratitude towards Taylor and Taylor's Attorney, Jeanne Normandeau. I hired Mrs. Normandeau for a VERY ...

    Bruce R.
    "I have come across many attorneys in my life and I have never been treated as well as I have her"

    I have come across many attorneys in my life and I have never been treated as well as I have here. Every phone call was ...

    Anthony D.
    "Won DMV hearing and got my case expunged for a minor issue"

    Truly great team of lawyers. Handled everything the very best they could. Won DMV hearing and got my case expunged for a ...

    Nick T.
    "Chris not only got me down to a Wet Reckless but was able to significantly reduce the penalties I would face."

    Im am so glad that I read the reviews of Taylor and Taylor after my first "incident" and immediately contacted them. Chris ...

    Suzi J.
    "Thankfully Mr. Taylor was able to help fight my case without me ever having to go to court"

    You should never drink and drive anywhere, but especially don't do it in la Jolla! Cops down here have nothing better to do ...

    Steven K.

What Are the Rules of Alcohol Consumption
On the Water?

The Harbors and Navigation Code does not bar passengers or watercraft operators from drinking alcohol or carrying open containers in the vessel. Aside from this, a BUI offense is almost identical to the California Vehicle Code’s explanation of operating a car or truck with a BAC at or above .08%. The details of the regulation can be found in California Harbors and Navigation Code Section 655:

(b) No person shall operate any vessel or manipulate water skis, an aquaplane, or a similar device while under the influence of an alcoholic beverage, any drug, or the combined influence of an alcoholic beverage and any drug. (c) No person shall operate any recreational vessel or manipulate any water skis, aquaplane, or similar device if the person has an alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or more in his or her blood. (d) No person shall operate any vessel other than a recreational vessel if the person has an alcohol concentration of 0.04 percent or more in his or her blood.

The symptoms that primarily attract officers to the boats, and the procedures that follow are very similar to DUI cases. 

Continue Reading Read Less
Orange County's Premier DUI Defense Attorneys

With an average of 32 years of experience, a top A-V rating, and a listing in the Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers, the firm continues to be widely recognized as California’s premier DUI defense attorney's and has twice been recognized in the American Bar Association Journal for its specialization and unique technical support staff of former law enforcement, blood-alcohol and DMV experts.

Penalties for BUI

The consequences and defenses for a BUI are much like those of a DUI, however, they are not identical. In short, fines, a jail sentence, and probation will ensue. (Refer to California Harbors and Navigation Code section 655) Also, a lesser offense with lighter punishments is a possibility for plea bargaining.

One key fact to note: a conviction for DUID is “priorable.” In other words, if you are charged with a DUI in the future (the following 10 years), a DUID will be regarded as a prior conviction. This means that if you are arrested sometime between now and 10 years from now, the court will view you as a repeat offender. The consequences for a second offense are much harsher than those of a first offense.

Any form of DUI conviction can have a significant impact on your life. Schedule a free initial consultation with our California BUI lawyers by filling out our online contact form or calling (562) 330-4173 today.

Tailored Defense For You

Whether you have questions or you’re ready to get started, our legal team is ready to help. Complete our form below or call us at (562) 330-4173.

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy