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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 a 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 your 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.

    110% in your corner
    “Albert is 110% in your corner. His prior experience as a prosecutor is what drew me to hiring him. He knows the process from all sides and will fight for you as well as explain outcome possibilities in great detail. He is also a tremendous listener who empathizes and puts your mind at ease (without giving you false expectations) He is a consummate professional of whom I would hire again if needed. Go with someone that not only has the knowledge and skills to help you through your case, but will also be a human being by listening to your concerns. Go with Albert.”
    - CS
    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
    Exceeded expectations on a professional and personal level!
    “As far as representing me in my case this law group was by far the easiest group of people I have ever worked with, its unfortunate that I needed a lawyer in the first place but if you are ever in the situation where you need representation then this is the group to call, any time I had a question or needed to know something about my case this group of lawyers was always on point to help me! The easiest court situation I have ever been thru, hopefully, I'll never need you again but if I do, you will for sure be my first call.”
    Thrilled to have Albert as my lawyer
    “When I called Albert, he answered the call himself and we were addressing my concerns very fast. This was already a great sign and assuring to someone who had never called a criminal attorney.”
    - Chase
    Albert made the difference
    “I will start this out by saying that I believe in things happening for a reason, in the right place at the right time. Crossing paths with Albert was meant to be when I needed him most.”
    - Aaron
    Spectacular Law Firm
    “I have been represented by Albert and this law firm in several cases and the results have been awesome. It is truly wonderful to be represented by attorneys that truly cared about me and my family.”
    - T.C.
    Lawyer with a heart
    “Albert Guadagno is a great lawyer, he cares with his clients. Lawyer with a good heart.”
    - JB
    A friend in your corner
    “Working with Albert was an absolute blessing. He really takes the time to get to know you so he can truly make a defense from your corner. Our phone calls were always filled with laughs to help ease the painful situation. He's brilliant and easy to trust. I would always recommend him again and again.”
    - A. G.
    Always made himself available with updates and just go out of his way to stop by an check in on me meant a lot!
    “Always made himself available with updates and just go out of his way to stop by an check in on me meant a lot!”
    - Tino
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Seattle, WA 98109
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