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Seattle BUI Lawyers 

Seasoned Defense Against BUI Charges in Seattle

For many, taking a boat out on the water and enjoying alcohol is great way to unwind and a celebrated summer pastime. However, Washington State has recently cracked down on boating under the influence offenses, or BUI, and has enhanced penalties to be even harsher for those convicted. Now, a BUI conviction can mean hefty fines and even significant jail time for the accused.

If you have been charged with boating under the influence in Washington, we invite you to contact us at Guadagno Law, PLLC. Our Seattle BUI lawyers have more than a decade of experience in protecting the rights of clients facing the most serious of charges. Our aggressive, results-driven approach means not only will you voice be heard before the law, but that every possible defense avenue will be pursued to its fullest extent.

Why You Should Choose Guadagno Law, PLLC:

  • 24/7 emergency services for your time of need
  • Free, initial case consultations
  • Responsive, compassionate, attentive legal counsel
  • Aggressive defense strategies from former prosecutors

Retain a Seattle BUI attorney capable of producing results. Contact us at (206) 895-6800 for a FREE initial consultation today.

BUI Laws in Washington State

In 2015, state legislature made the penalties for BUI more severe than they had been in years past. Previously, BUI was a simple misdemeanor, but now the offense is considered a "gross misdemeanor" with more serious consequences and protocols that more closely resemble DUI laws.

BUI Penalties in Washington

In Washington State, boating under the influence (BUI) is considered a gross misdemeanor and can result in up to a year in jail and/or a fine up to $5,000. While your license cannot be suspended, the penalties if someone is seriously injured, or dies, as a result of BUI can be harsh.

Being convicted of boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs can incur the following additional penalties:

  • Boat operators are now subject to implied consent breathalyzer laws. If an officer asks him or her to submit to a breathalyzer test and the defendant refuses, he or she can be subject to a Class 1 Civil Infraction, which can result in a fine of up to $2,050.
  • A BUI that caused serious injury to another person can result in ten years in prison and/or $20,000 in fines, while a BUI that involved someone's death can result in a life sentence in prison and/or $50,000 in fines.
  • Note that BUI convictions do not result in driver's license suspensions.

Real People. Real Stories.

Read our reviews from past clients we've helped.

    Albert is great!
    “Albert was really helpful in my case. It was a false Assault 4 allegation. Albert was really considerate in understanding my situation and handled the case maturely. He went above and beyond in neogitating a favourable decision from the court. Highly recommend him.”
    - SP
    He handled my case personally and best of all got my DUI case DISMISSED.
    “Having to call an attorney for help was probably one of the scariest things I ever had to do. Who to call?? No idea. I got lucky and called the right attorney to help me with my DUI case. Albert was there to answer my questions and help me with the process. To sum it up, Albert was knowledgeable, personable, and professional. An attorney who really cares about you and knows what to do. He handled my case personally and best of all got my DUI case DISMISSED. I cannot recommend Albert enough! If you need help and want an attorney who will be there when you call, Albert is the one.”
    - Former Client
    Best lawyer around
    “Was really nervous going into my case, until I met Albert. And he literally walks you step by step, And doesn’t change the subject until you fully understand what’s going on! You can literally call him anytime with any questions and he will help you out with no hesitation. By far the best lawyer out there. Thanks again for everything Albert!”
    - S. K.
    Above and beyond
    “If you find yourself in the position where you need a Seattle criminal defense attorney who is professional, accessible, empathetic and actually pretty funny please contact Albert. I can not recommend him enough.”
    - Client
    Kind and Brillant!
    “I am so thankful that Albert was , and still my lawyer!! Regardless what anyone is going thru I know , and can tell you first -hand he is kind , relative to your needs , and makes you feel like you matter. I would give a referral to absolutely anyone !He takes the time to care ! Regardless how busy he may be ... you would never know he is soo busy , and regards everyone as number one priority! He is so kind , compassionate, and hard working ...beyond awesome. He has passion , and articulates your side with brilliance ! I feel lucky that I hired him!”
    - D
    A very good and highly capable attorney!!
    “I came to Albert over a domestic issue that I was facing that was false. Albert was able to get a dismissal of a violation of a order of protection I was wrongfully facing. Albert also took a lot of time to explain things to a person such as myself who had never been in this situation before. He was very helpful ,competent and reassuring. Not all attorney's are like this guy, you will be in good hands if you hire him. Thanks again Albert!!! Vincent R.”
    - Vincent R.
    El Abogado que no solo brindara el mejor resultado a tu caso pero que también te brindará el mejor servicio desde la primer llamada
    “Alberto no solo te brinda un servicio. Alberto se pone en tu lugar y te brinda una atención personalizada y dedicada desde la primera llamada qué tú haces. Al exponerle tu caso te acompaña con simpatía, experiencia y sobr”
    - Paola Betanco
    Alberto handled the situation so very well. He jumped in with both feet and expedited the entire process.
    “Alberto handled the situation so very well. He jumped in with both feet and expedited the entire process.”
    - S
    Hands down, THE BEST.
    “To start off, When I first needed an attorney I was extremely stressed, scared, confused, and almost lost. Finding Albert has been an extreme blessing. To say he is amazing, is an understatement. He’s met all my expectations and more. The weight he took off my back is immaculate. Not only that, I was looking at prison time. Now I’m looking at NO prison or NO jail time. He really is the best person and lawyer. I could go on and on about the the amazing work of this man. HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend!”
    - Brittney S
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1818 Westlake Ave. N.
Suite 216
Seattle, WA 98109
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