Lutins & Pilgreen, PC
Roanoke Family Law And Criminal Defense
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Intelligent And Aggressive Representation

Boating Under The Influence

Smith Mountain Lake and other bodies of water in the Roanoke, Virginia, area are heavily patrolled for boating under the influence (BUI) violations. If you are charged with BUI, you face the same harsh penalties that apply to motorists who drink and drive, including suspension of your driver’s license and possible jail time.

To protect your freedom and your future, contact the law firm of Lutins & Pilgreen, PC, in Roanoke, Virginia. Our lawyers will provide you the strongest possible defense. We offer a initial consultation to discuss your case and answer your questions. We represent college students, underage drivers and others charged with BUI.

What Are The Penalties For BUI In Virginia?

The penalties for boating while intoxicated vary depending on your age, number of previous offenses and level of intoxication. For a first conviction of BUI with a blood alcohol concentration of between .08 and .15 percent, you face:

  • One-year driver’s license suspension
  • Mandatory $250 fine

Other consequences may include higher insurance, a permanent criminal record and possible job loss. The state ratchets up the penalties with subsequent conviction. For a third DUI or BUI, you face felony charges.

Is There A Defense To BUI Charges?

Even if you think you are guilty of boating under the influence, there is always something an experienced attorney can do to minimize the consequences you face. Our lawyers will examine the circumstances of your arrest and the state’s evidence and look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

The state will use technical evidence in an attempt to prove you are guilty of BUI. In many cases, our lawyers can use technical defenses to take those cases apart.

Why You Should Call Us Now Rather Than Later

If you have been charged with drunk boating, you are probably in shock. While the response is understandable, it can prevent you from taking needed action to protect your rights.

You should not try to talk your way out of the charges. Talking to police won’t help your case and could give the state the information it needs to convict you. Before you say or do anything, call the intelligent and aggressive lawyers at Lutins & Pilgreen, PC, in Roanoke, Virginia, at 540-627-5150.