Minneapolis BUI / BWI Attorneys

Let Us Defend Your Rights Today

While most of us are already well aware that every state has DUI laws in place that are intended to help keep drivers safe, many people don’t realize that every state, as well as the federal government, has laws that punish those who operate a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol. BUI/BWI laws permit law enforcement officers to stop boats and other types of watercraft, to determine if the operator and any passengers on board are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

A BUI charge can be devastating to your reputation and can put your freedom at stake, especially if you have a previous criminal record. From expensive fines to the possibility of time in jail, facing BUI/BWI charges can be a stressful and overwhelming experience to endure on your own.

Our skilled team of BUI attorneys is here to help you fight the charges against you and restore your reputation and good name. We have the skills and resources you need to build a strong defense strategy and to negotiate with prosecutors.

Call (612) 444-5020 today if you have been accused of boating under the influence in Minneapolis.

How Do I Defend Against BUI Charges?

The laws for BUI/BWI are very similar to those for DUI crimes, particularly in the way field sobriety tests are carried out, and how law enforcement attempts to identify potential suspects. If you are accused of BUI/BWI, it is important to remember that there are many different methods a skilled attorney can use in court to cast doubt on the charges against you.

Examples of successful defenses for BUI / BWI charges include:

• Accusations of defective testing equipment
• Denying the defendant was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of their arrest

Having skilled representation by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Consult with a lawyer immediately if you have been arrested for BUI/BWI.

First-Time BWI Penalties

As stated in Minnesota Statute section 169A.20, it is a crime for any person to operate or be in physical control of a motorboat in operation on any waters or boundary waters when he or she is under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or other intoxicating substances.

If an operator is accused of a boating while under the influence crime, he or she can face Minnesota charges ranging from misdemeanor to felony level. The level of offense will depend on a variety of factors such as blood alcohol concentration, whether an accident occurred, whether minor children were involved, and prior DWI/BWI related convictions.

If convicted of a first-time BWI charge in Minnesota, the maximum penalties include:

• A jail sentence of up to 90 days; or
• A fine of up to $1,000; or
• Both penalties.

In addition to criminal penalties, a person charged with a BWI can face administrative sanctions. For example, Minnesotans charged with a BWI could lose their driver’s licenses as well as their boating, ATV, and snowmobiling privileges.

Talk to our Minneapolis Team Today. Call (612) 444-5020.

At Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm, P.A., we offer innovative and proactive legal solutions for all of the cases we take on. Our Minneapolis BUI attorneys have more than 100 years of combined experience and are prepared to defend your legal rights. Let us put our skills to work for you today.

Contact our Minneapolis BWI lawyers to schedule your free case consultation today.