BWI Defense Attorneys in Annapolis, MD, Specializing in Waterway Intoxication Defense in Anne Arundel County and Throughout Maryland
Were you caught drinking and boating in Annapolis? Our Annapolis BUI lawyers can help.
Maybe you were enjoying a day on the Severn River or returning from Ego Alley when the police stopped your boat. Now you're facing BUI charges in Maryland's sailing capital. The consequences hit hard:
- Your boating privileges will likely be suspended.
- You might face strict penalties.
- Your reputation in the Annapolis boating community could be affected.
We know the criminal defense laws and have helped many Annapolis boaters fight BUI charges, getting them dismissed or reduced.
Take control of your situation. Contact us for a free case assessment.
Facing Criminal Charges? We Can Help.
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443-551-2747When Can You Be Charged with BUI in Annapolis?
You can face BUI charges if police officers catch you operating a vessel with:
- A blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or above
- Drugs in your system affecting your ability to safely navigate
Understanding the Difference Between BUI and BWI
You can face BWI charges with:
- BAC levels between 0.07% and 0.08%
- Any substances affecting your boating judgment
While BUI (Boating Under the Influence) carries the harshest penalties, BWI (Boating While Impaired) carries lighter penalties.
Consequences of a BUI Conviction in Annapolis?
- First offense: You could face fines of up to $1,000, spend up to a year in prison, or both. Furthermore, a criminal record will follow you every time.
- Repeat offenses: Repeat offenders face even steeper consequences. The fines double to $2,000, and you could spend up to two years in prison, with a minimum of 5 days mandatory.
- Accidents: The stakes get even higher if you cause an injury to someone. You could face fines up to $3,000 and up to three years in prison. If someone dies, fines can reach $5,000, and you could face up to five years in prison.
Consequences of a BWI Conviction in Annapolis?
Even a BWI conviction carries serious consequences:
- If it's your first BWI offense, you're looking at a $500 fine and up to two months in prison.
- Things get more serious if accidents happen. If you cause life-threatening injuries, you could face $3,000 in fines and up to two years in prison. In fatal accidents, the sentence can stretch to three years.
- With kids on board, the penalties jump to $1,000 in fines and up to six months in prison.
Whether you're dealing with a BUI or BWI near City Dock, at Thomas Point, or anywhere in Annapolis, we're here to defend your rights. Discuss your case with our Annapolis BUI lawyers.
How Our Annapolis BUI Lawyers Can Assist You With Your BUI Case
Every BUI or BWI case is unique. But we always strive for the best possible outcome for you, whether that's a dismissal, reduced charges, or a not-guilty verdict. Below are the defenses we often use to defend clients facing BUI charges.
Challenging Stops in Waters
Marine police can't just stop boats at random. Our BWI defense attorneys in Annapolis, MD, examine every detail of your stop, from where it happened to why they approached you. Whether you were cruising near City Dock or anchored in the Maritime Republic of Eastport, location matters. If the stop wasn't justified, your entire case can be thrown out.
Questioning Blood Test Accuracy
Blood tests aren't foolproof. Issues can arise from:
- How samples are handled
- Whether proper testing procedures are followed
- If samples are kept free from contamination
Exposing Breathalyzer Test Flaws
Local marine police rely heavily on breathalyzers, but these machines need constant maintenance and calibration. The charges can be dropped if equipment wasn't properly maintained or calibrated, making the results unreliable.
If you're facing BUI or BWI charges in Annapolis, let's talk about your case. Our Annapolis BUI lawyers know these waters and how to defend your rights.
Contact Our Annapolis BUI Lawyers at Maronick Law LLC Today for a Free Case Review
Don't let a BUI charge derail your future. We're here 24/7 to help, whether you're near Back Creek, the Eastport Bridge, or anywhere in between.
For help from BUI lawyers in Annapolis, contact Maronick Law LLC online or call 443-551-2747 today.