Fort Walton Beach BUI Attorney

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Unparalleled Defense for Complex Boating DUI Cases.
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Get the Help You Need When Facing Florida DUI Charges

Flaherty & Merrifield has been defending local residents, military members, and vacationers charged with DUI in the Fort Walton Beach area since 2001. If you're ready for us to put our expertise to work for you, complete our contact form or call our law office at 850-374-6273 to schedule an appointment for a free consultation to discuss the details of your case.

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Meet Your Criminal Defense Team

There is no such thing as a “small” case. Any arrest is a potential life-changing crisis. Our clients trust us with their freedom, their record, and their reputations. We do not take that responsibility lightly.

Tim Flaherty Criminal Defense Attorney

Brandy Merrifield Criminal Defense Attorney

Fort Walton Boating Under the Influence Attorney

Potential BUI Penalties in Florida

The magic number for blood alcohol content (BAC) is the same as a DUI: 0.08. If you are pulled over while operating a boat and your BAC tests higher than that, you will be arrested and charged with BUI. Under Florida Statute 327.35, there are many potential ramifications of a BUI arrest, including:

Up to nine months in jail (for a first conviction)
Up to 12 months in jail (for a second conviction)
Fines ranging between $500 and $1,000 (for a first conviction)
Fines ranging between $1,000 and $2,000 (for a second conviction)
Up to one year of probation with sanctions such as substance abuse evaluation and treatment
Community service hours
10-day vehicle or boat impoundment

As you can see, BUIs are taken very seriously in Florida. You could be given jail time and will be required to pay hefty fines. Don't face this alone; give us a call or complete our contact form and let us help you.