Kaneohe BUI Lawyer

BUI Attorney In Kaneohe, HI

Boating in Hawaii is a favorite pastime of many residents, but being charged with a BUI can forever impact your ability to keep doing so. If you have been charged with boating while under the influence, you can benefit from the help of a Kaneohe BUI lawyer.

About The Law Office of R. Patrick McPherson

When looking for a Kaneohe BUI attorney to represent you, there are several things to keep in mind: you want skill, dedication, and advocacy. For over 20 years, Patrick McPherson has been helping residents with criminal defense cases in Kaneohe, Hawaii tailoring them to the specific needs of each client. With Patrick as your advocate, you can trust that he will do everything in his power to protect you, your freedom, your rights, and your future.

An Overview of Boating While Under the Influence in Hawaii

Boating under the influence, or “BUI,” occurs when an individual is operating any aquatic vehicle while drunk, high, or impacted by the improper usage of prescribed medications. While it is described as “boating,” you can be charged with a BUI for operating any of the following vehicles while under the influence:

• Jet skis
• Motorboats
• Canoes
• Sailboats
• Kayaks

Important Aspects of Boating to Be Aware of in Hawaii

Even though BUI-related accidents in the country have decreased drastically as of 2024, they still pose a threat to civilian safety, which means that Hawaii’s law enforcement and court system still take them very seriously. Here are some of the key aspects of BUI law that you may benefit from being aware of:

• Enforcement. Hawaii’s BUI laws are enforced by both state law enforcement and the United States Coast Guard.
• Implied consent. When you operate a vehicle in Hawaiian waters, you are implicitly consenting to any alcohol or drug testing that law enforcement may require of you. You are still legally permitted to deny these tests, but doing so can result in having your boating privileges revoked until your case is closed.
• Legal BAC limit. Similarly to driving a car, there is a legal limit to the level of blood alcohol content, or “BAC,” a person can have while operating a boat or other aquatic vehicle. Hawaii currently requires all individuals to keep their BAC below 0.08%. For those who have not yet reached the legal drinking age, any detectable BAC can result in being charged with a BUI.
• Impaired judgment. Impaired judgment can occur when an individual is still within the legal BAC limit, but is exhibiting signs of impaired functioning. This means that you can still be charged with a BUI even if your BAC is below 0.08%. It is important to note that the sun, waves, and wind may amplify the side effects of alcohol.
• Alcohol ban areas. Hawaii has laid out specific safety zones that completely prohibit the consumption and even possession of alcohol during certain days. These areas are typically instated for specific holidays, such as Labor Day, Memorial Day, and more.

Hire a BUI Lawyer Today

There are many benefits that you can gain access to when you hire a BUI lawyer, including representation at the District Court – Kāneʻohe Division if your case proceeds to court. Patrick McPherson can be at your side through any court hearings, fighting for your rights and an optimal outcome to your case.

Contact The Law Office of R. Patrick McPherson today to schedule a consultation.

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