Los Angeles BUI Attorney 

Boating is a popular pastime in Southern California, from cruising the coastline to enjoying lakes and harbors throughout Los Angeles County. Unfortunately, what may start as a relaxing day on the water can quickly turn into a serious legal matter if you are accused of boating under the influence (BUI). A BUI arrest can carry severe penalties, including fines, jail time, and the loss of boating privileges. If you are facing these charges, our Los Angeles BUI defense lawyer at Gold & Witham can help protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.

Our firm understands California’s complex boating laws and the unique issues that arise in BUI cases. We provide strategic, personalized defense for individuals charged with boating under the influence in Los Angeles, CA.

Have you been charged with a BUI in California? Call Gold & Witham today at (800) 716-6791 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our BUI attorney in Los Angeles!

What Is Boating Under the Influence (BUI)?

Boating Under the Influence (BUI) occurs when a person operates a vessel while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. Many boaters mistakenly believe that BUI laws are less serious than DUI laws, but in California, BUI is a criminal offense that can result in significant consequences.

Law enforcement agencies such as the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and California State Parks regularly patrol waterways and aggressively enforce BUI laws, especially during holidays and peak boating seasons.

California BUI Laws

California Harbors and Navigation Code §655 makes it illegal to operate a vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Under the law, a person may be charged with BUI if they:

• Operate a vessel with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher
• Are impaired by alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications
• Operate a vessel under the combined influence of alcohol and drugs

Commercial vessel operators may be subject to stricter BAC limits. Unlike DUI laws, BUI charges do not involve a driver’s license suspension, but they still carry criminal penalties and a permanent record.

Our Los Angeles BUI defense lawyer can evaluate whether law enforcement followed proper procedures, including lawful stops, sobriety testing, and chemical testing requirements.

Popular Boating Spots in Los Angeles County

BUI arrests frequently occur in some of the most popular recreational waterways in Los Angeles County, including:

• Marina del Rey – One of the largest man-made small craft harbors in the world
• Long Beach Harbor – A busy area with recreational and commercial traffic
• Redondo Beach & King Harbor
• Catalina Island – A common location for weekend boating and overnight trips
• Castaic Lake
• Lake Piru
• Santa Monica Bay

Increased patrols are common in these areas, particularly during summer weekends, holidays, and special events. Even experienced boaters can find themselves targeted for stops and sobriety checks.

BUI Penalties in California

A BUI conviction can result in penalties similar to those imposed in DUI cases. The severity of punishment depends on whether it is a first or repeat offense and whether aggravating factors are involved.

Potential BUI penalties include:

• Fines and court fees
• Probation
• County jail time
• Mandatory alcohol education programs
• Loss or suspension of boating privileges
• Criminal record

Repeat offenses or BUI incidents involving injuries or property damage can lead to enhanced penalties, including longer jail sentences and increased fines. Our Los Angeles BUI defense attorney can work to reduce or eliminate these penalties whenever possible.

Legal Defenses Against BUI Charges

BUI cases are not always straightforward. Many arrests involve flawed evidence, improper testing, or violations of constitutional rights. At Gold & Witham, we thoroughly analyze every detail of your case to identify effective defenses.

Common BUI defense strategies include:

• Lack of probable cause for the initial stop
• Improper administration of field sobriety tests, which are often unreliable on water
• Inaccurate breath or blood test results
• Rising BAC defense, where alcohol levels increase after boating ends
• Medical conditions or fatigue mistaken for impairment
• Unlawful search or seizure

Because boating environments differ significantly from roadways, sobriety testing on water can be especially unreliable. An experienced attorney can challenge these testing methods and the officer’s conclusions.

BUI FAQs

Is BUI treated the same as DUI in California?

While BUI and DUI are separate offenses, they carry similar criminal penalties. However, BUI does not result in a driver’s license suspension.

Can I refuse a breath or blood test while boating?

California’s implied consent laws apply to boating. Refusing chemical testing can lead to additional penalties and be used against you in court.

Will a BUI conviction stay on my record?

Yes. A BUI conviction creates a criminal record, which can impact employment and future legal matters.

Do I need a lawyer for a first-time BUI offense?

Yes. Even first-time BUI charges can result in jail time, fines, and lasting consequences. Our Los Angeles BUI defense attorney can often reduce charges or seek dismissal.

Can BUI charges be dismissed?

Yes. If your attorney identifies procedural errors, insufficient evidence, or rights violations, charges may be reduced or dismissed.

Why Hire Gold & Witham?

At Gold & Witham, we focus on providing top-notch legal representation for individuals facing BUI charges in Los Angeles. Our team, including attorneys Jeffrey Gold and Nigel Witham, brings over 40 years of combined experience, allowing us to craft personalized defense strategies tailored to your unique circumstances. We understand the intricacies of BUI law and leverage this knowledge to challenge any evidence or procedures that may be used against you.

What sets us apart is our extensive experience and commitment to immediate and proactive legal action. We believe that the best defense begins the moment you contact us. Protect your boating and driving privileges by reaching out immediately to ensure your rights are upheld throughout the legal process.

Navigating the complexities of a BUI charge can be daunting, particularly given the interplay of state and federal regulations governing marine activities. Our approach is meticulous. To build a comprehensive defense, we analyze every detail, including witness statements and environmental factors during the arrest. This thorough examination aims to identify any procedural errors that can be pivotal in influencing the outcome of your charge.

Contact Our Los Angeles BUI Lawyer Today

Facing a BUI charge can be an overwhelming and stressful experience, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Gold & Witham, our seasoned team is ready to provide dedicated legal support, guiding you through each process step with a strategic defense plan tailored to your circumstances.

Don't let a BUI charge compromise your future. Protect your rights and take the first step towards building a strong defense. 

Contact our experienced Los Angeles BUI attorney today for a FREE consultation and to protect your rights on the water and the road!