Experienced Defense Against BUI Charges in Maryland
The state of Maryland has beautiful waters to enjoy, including 17,000 miles of river, the Chesapeake Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean lining the coast. Maryland’s waterways are one of the most beautiful parts of the state, and boating is a favorite pastime of many residents and visitors alike. It’s easy to see why a warm day on the water could be more enjoyable with a beer in hand, yet, drinking and boating is just as illegal as drunk driving, and the penalties for a BUI conviction can be severe. BUI convictions put you at risk of losing your boating license, facing heavy fines, and incarceration. Penalties vary depending on the circumstances of the conviction, and whether the boater was apprehended by the state of Maryland Natural Resources Police or the U.S. Coast Guard.
Our Baltimore BUI attorneys know there are two sides to every story, and firmly believes you are innocent until proven guilty. We are committed to serving and defending the criminally accused throughout Maryland. Protect your legal rights and secure a legal team with 50 years of combined legal experience to ensure you have the best shot at a favorable outcome for your BUI case.
Have you been arrested for a BUI in Maryland? Call Scheuerman Law, LLC at 443-888-2062 for immediate assistance and a complimentary case evaluation.
Maryland BUI and BWI Laws and Penalties
Maryland has two classifications for operating a boat while intoxicated: BUI and BWI. Specific penalties depend on the boat operator’s blood alcohol content (BAC) upon arrest, as well as whether it is a first or subsequent BUI offense.
Penalties for BUI and BWI convictions in Maryland not involving serious injuries or death include:
- Boating under the influence (BUI): You can be arrested for a BUI for operating a vessel with a BAC of 0.08% or greater. This misdemeanor offense carries between 1 to 3 years of imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $3,000, depending on how many previous BUI convictions you have had. Offenders’ boating privileges may also be suspended.
- Boating while impaired (BWI): Maryland law states that a person is boating while impaired if they are “so far impaired by any drug, combination of drugs, or combination of one or more drugs and alcohol that the person cannot operate a vessel safely.” Penalties include potential suspension of boating privileges, up to 1 year in prison, and a maximum of $1,000 in fines.
Contact Our Baltimore BUI Lawyer Today
Our Baltimore BUI attorneys at Scheuerman Law, LLC are eager to hear from you and to defend your rights and reputation. We represent clients throughout Maryland for BUI and BWI charges and will be here every step of the way, starting with your free consultation.
Call us today at 443-888-2062 for a free consultation to discuss your BUI charges or contact us online.