How a Boating Under the Influence (BUI) Conviction Can Affect Your Life
Florida’s extensive coastlines are the perfect spot to drop your anchor. However, heading to the helm while under the influence of alcohol or drugs could turn an idyllic ocean caper into a courtroom drama overnight. Not only is boating while intoxicated illegal, but you will also face strict penalties such as jail time and fines even if it’s only your first offense.
However, these penalties are just the tip of the iceberg—in many cases, a BUI conviction could haunt you for the rest of your life. This conviction is a permanent stain on your criminal record that will prevent you from operating a vessel, make it challenging to find work, and could inhibit your ability to rent a home or apartment.
In this article, we take a closer look at some of the ways a BUI conviction could impact your everyday life:
1. Difficulty Finding Work
Before hiring someone, most companies will run extensive background checks on their top candidates. As a result, if you were convicted for a BUI, these businesses will immediately see that you have a criminal record—a blackmark that could stop your job hunt in its tracks. Even if you do have a job at the moment, a BUI could still lead to your dismissal as, in the state, businesses can fire someone at any time for almost any reason.
2. Ban from Boating
Whether you’re a weekend angler, avid boater, or dedicated seafarer, having access to and the ability to operate a boat is one of the best ways to enjoy Florida’s scenic coastlines. However, if you are convicted for boating under the influence, it’s likely that you won’t be allowed to operate a vessel for months or even years after you’re sentenced.
3. Struggle to Rent a Property
Landlords are looking for reliable tenants who will take good care of their properties and won’t fail to make their monthly rent payments. To help vet applicants, property owners may run background checks on potential tenants. If these searches uncover a conviction on your record, the landlord may see this as a sign that you won’t be a trustworthy tenant and might deny your application.
4. Time Behind Bars
Whether it’s your first charge or your fourth, there’s always a chance that you could receive a lengthy prison sentence. Additionally, you may have to complete up to 50 hours of community service, and your vessel could be impounded for 10 days after the arrest.
Speak to a BUI Defense Attorney in Stuart, Florida Today
A BUI conviction can impact your life in a number of ways, but if your case is still pending, it may be possible for you to have the penalties reduced or charges dismissed. Todd A. Kawecki is a skilled DUI defense attorney whose time spent working as a prosecutor has armed him with an in-depth understanding of criminal proceedings and the relevant statutes and case law. To schedule a free consultation, dial 772-485-4500 or tap through to our contact page HERE.