Gainesville BUI Lawyer

BUI Attorney in Gainesville, GA

Boating under the influence (BUI) of drugs or alcohol can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. A BUI charge is considered a special misdemeanor, but it still carries severe sanctions that could have negative consequences for years to come. A skilled Gainesville BUI lawyer can review your case and determine an effective defense strategy.

If you are convicted, you could lose your right to operate a boat and face other penalties. An experienced Gainesville criminal defense lawyer can safeguard your rights and advocate for your interests. It may be possible to negotiate for a reduced sentence or alternative punishment. Our team’s willingness to try cases means we are prepared to challenge the evidence in court to protect your future.

Hire a Gainesville BUI Lawyer

A BUI charge may be a misdemeanor, but it still carries some serious consequences if convicted. When you plan a relaxing day on Lake Lanier, you probably don’t plan to commit a crime, but drinking while boating can result in charges. You can benefit from our years of experience representing Georgia clients when you hire a BUI lawyer from Pleasant Law, PLLC.

Recreational Boating Statistics

Boating statistics are compiled each year by the U.S. Coast Guard based on accident reports throughout the United States. During 2024, a total of 3,887 incidents were reported. Of those incidents:

• 556 fatalities
• 2,170 injuries
• $88 million in property damage
• 20% of deaths were attributed to alcohol consumption

BUI charges in Gainesville are heard in the Hall County State Court for misdemeanor charges or the Hall County Superior Court for felony charges. BUI arrests automatically trigger a suspension of the accused’s boating privileges unless an appeal is filed with the Georgia Office of State Administrative Hearings.

Georgia Boating Laws

The Georgia Boat Safety Act prohibits operating any type of watercraft while intoxicated. Specifically, the law states:

• Any person under the age of 21 is prohibited from operating a watercraft with a blood alcohol level of 0.02 or more.
• Any person 21 years of age or older is prohibited from operating a watercraft with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or more.
• Any person is prohibited from operating a watercraft when testing positive for drugs.
• If a person is found guilty of a BUI with a child under the age of 14 on board, they are also guilty of the charge of endangering a child.

By operating a watercraft in Georgia, you automatically consent to alcohol or drug testing when requested by a law enforcement officer. If you refuse to be tested, your refusal can be submitted as evidence in a BUI case against you. You also lose your boating privileges for up to one year. You can learn more about what happens after a DUI arrest in Gainesville, GA to see how implied consent laws are applied by local authorities.

If you are convicted of a BUI, the penalties can include:

• Boating privileges revoked until a DUI Alcohol or Drug Use Risk Reduction Program sanctioned by the Department of Driver Services is completed
• Fines of up to $1,000
• Up to one year in jail

Get Help From a Gainesville GA BUI Lawyer

Many people spend warm days boating in Georgia. It is not uncommon to spend a holiday weekend, such as the 4th of July or Memorial Day, boating and swimming. You could face legal challenges, though, if you boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you are facing a BUI charge, contact Pleasant Law, PLLC to schedule your initial consultation.