Boating Under the Influence Put Experience On Your Side

Fort Walton 
Beach BUI Attorney

Navigating Your Boating Under the Influence Charge

If you have been arrested for boating under the influence in Okaloosa County, it is highly advised that you seek legal counsel. At Vanover Law Firm, our legal team has successfully navigated thousands of drunk driving cases over the last 20+ years -- including many boating under the influence matters. We're ready to partner with you as you confront your charge, aggressively pursue viable defense options, and ensure that your rights and interests remain an absolute priority.

Our dedicated Fort Walton Beach BUI lawyers are ready to speak with you. Call (850) 999-0006 today.

Florida BUI Laws

Florida Statutes 327.02(43) includes Florida's boating under the influence law, which is the boating equivalent of a DUI offense. Boating is a way of life here in Florida and while many boaters responsibly operate their vessel every year, not all them are aware that similar drunk driving laws apply to our waters just as they do our roads.

Boating Under the Influence Penalties

Florida Statutes 327.02(43) states that a boater can be charged with BUI when they are "affected to the extent that the person’s normal faculties are impaired" by alcohol or controlled substances. When it comes to alcohol, the same BAC (blood alcohol content) limit that applies to drivers also applies to boaters: .08%.

Penalties for a first-time BUI can include:

  • Up to $1,000 in fines
  • Up to six months in jail
  • Probation
  • Vessel impoundment (10 days)
  • Community service

Do You Lose Your License for BUI in Florida?

If you receive a conviction for boating under the influence (BUI) in Florida, you will not have your driver's license suspended. However, alternative penalties may lead to fines, a driver's license loss, a permanent record, or even jail time.

Just like in DUI cases, BUI penalties can intensify with repeat charges or aggravating circumstances. For instance, if your first-time BUI charge involved a particularly high BAC, injury to another party, or the presence of minors, you could be facing harsher penalties. For more specific information on your charge and what our firm can do resolve this matter as favorably as possible, reach out to us at Vanover Law Firm today.

Start mounting an effective defense today. Contact us to request a free case evaluation.

Meet Our Attorneys Keith & Chris
Attorney Profiles

Testimonials

Why People Choose to Work With Us

At Vanover Law firm, we strive to provide the best representation to our clients. Please take a moment to read what our past clients had to say about their experience with Vanover Law Firm. 

    "Very personal and professional and made sure I was taken care of and that justice was served in my case."
    Angela and attorney Chris Garret were very personal and professional and made sure I was taken care of and that justice was served in my case. They represented me in Okaloosa and Escambia and had no problem dropping everything to be there whenever I needed them in my case! Thanks again!!!
    - Philip
    "My heartfelt thank you to all."
    I could not have been associated with a better, proficient, professional organization. I consider myself so fortunate to be represented by the entire staff. I would find it an embarrassment to let you and the prosecutor down. My heartfelt thank you to all.
    - Rick
    "A great team !"
    Vanoverlaw excellent team Mr Garret is an excellent lawyer and advocate, his staff is top of the mark
    - DAVID
    "Took very good care of my situation and were excellent at communicating with me."
    Mr. Garrett and his team took very good care of my situation and were excellent at communicating with me. Definitely would recommend!!
    - Shelby
    "Everything was done professionally, and I have the most respect for his help in my case. I would highly recommend Keith Vanover, and I use him again without hesitation."
    Vanover handled my case very professionally. The quote he gave me of what the cost would be to take care of my case never changed. Everything was done professionally, and I have the most respect for his help in my case. I would highly recommend Keith Vanover, and I use him again without hesitation. If someone is looking the best Lawyer in Crestview area then Keith is it.
    - Former Client
    "Team Garrett"
    I was so glad that I found Chris Garrett and was able to have him take my case. He answered all my questions and really listened to me. My case lasted for over 9 months, also had another charge added. I know that he fought for me all the way, he kept me out of jail and from losing everything I had. I highly recommend him and his great staff, no matter what your legal problem is. Also want to add that Angela was fantastic throughout the whole process.
    - Michael Buckner
    "Highly recommended!"
    Great DUI law firm. I had a DUI over Christmas. They got me a drivers license within 48 hours and I'm still driving on that license! I never had to go to court. Highly recommended!
    - Karson
    ""Referred by friend""
    Want to thank Chris Garrett & his staff for their prompt and professional service. With many attorneys to choose from in the area, Chris came highly recommended to handle my case by a friend. I am very pleased with the outcome and will refer him in the future to anyone seeking his professional services. Thanks again Chris!
    - Brandon

    Our Values

    What Our Work Means To Us

    Vanover Law Firm P.A. is here to help you get the results you need with a team you can trust.

    • Over 30 Years of Combined Legal Experience
    • Client Centered. Results Driven.
    • Air Force Veteran Owned Business
    • Free Consultations Available
    • Local Attorneys
    • Successfully Handled Over 3,000 DUIs