BUI

Coral Gables BUI Defense Attorney

Fiercely Defending Against BUI Charges in the Greater Miami Area

While the Sunshine State is known for its world-class boating culture and marine recreation, law enforcement aggressively patrols local waters. A BUI charge can turn a relaxing weekend on the water into a nightmare, leaving many operators facing sudden arrests, immediate vessel impoundments, and a permanent criminal record.

To protect your future, you need an advocate who understands how the state prosecutes BUI cases. At Jonathan Blecher, P.A., your fight is our fight. As a former prosecutor with over 40 years of experience, Attorney Jonathan Blecher brings an insider’s perspective to every case. When you choose our firm, you can expect a relentless defense tailored to the facts of your case.

If you’re accused of boating under the influence, our proven defense team can fight to protect your future. Contact us online to discuss your case.

What Constitutes BUI?

BUI involves operating a vessel while impaired by alcohol or drugs, or with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher (Fla. Stat. § 327.35). This applies to all vessels, from large yachts to personal watercraft. You can even be charged while anchored or docked, so long as you had physical control of the vessel.

A BUI allegation often comes down to how the stop was conducted and how any sobriety testing was administered. We can review the details of the stop and the reliability of testing results performed to identify weaknesses in the case against you and build the strongest possible defense for your situation.

What Are the Penalties for a BUI Conviction?

Penalties for a BUI conviction depend on the circumstances of the case. A first offense generally carries up to $1,000 in fines, six months in jail, a mandatory boating safety course, and possible vessel impoundment of up to ten days. These penalties increase if your BAC was 0.15% or higher, a minor was on board, or you have prior convictions.

A conviction also creates a criminal record that can enhance sentencing in any future BUI or DUI case. We can work tirelessly to keep these penalties from defining your future, whether that means challenging the charge itself or negotiating a better outcome.

BUI Enforcement on Biscayne Bay & Local Waterways

Coral Gables sits along an extensive canal system that connects to Biscayne Bay, one of the busiest boating corridors in South Florida. Weekends and holidays bring heavy vessel traffic through these waterways, as well as increased BUI enforcement.

This means residents and visitors face a risk of a BUI stop by simply boating through popular waterways, especially around the Gables Waterway and nearby bay access points.

We understand the enforcement patterns specific to this area. Our local knowledge shapes how we review the details of a stop, including where it occurred and which agency conducted it, and empowers us to develop compelling defense strategies.

Continue Reading Read Less

Trusted When It Matters Most.

See What Our Clients Say

“Excellent Experience”
“I had an excellent experience working with attorney Jonathan Blecher. He handled my case professionally and efficiently, and the outcome couldn’t have been better—my case was completely dropped, with no points, no fees, and I didn’t even ”

- Maya C.
“Exceeded My Expectations”
“Working with Jonathan was an excellent experience. He was attentive, clear in his communication, and made sure I understood every part of the process. I felt supported throughout, and the outcome exceeded my expectations.”

- Shaundel H.
“Professional & Knowledgeable”
“Jonathan was professional, knowledgeable, and took the time to really listen to my concerns. He made sure I understood every step of the process. His calm and thoughtful approach made a challenging situation much easier to handle.”

- Jennifer S.
“Very Satisfied”
“Mr. Blecher explained everything in detail, along with a timeline for when it would be completed. He did everything he promised and was able to complete everything within the timeframe promised. I was very satisfied with his work.”

- Barbara F.

Who Enforces BUI Laws on Florida Waters?

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is the primary agency responsible for enforcing BUI laws, often alongside marine patrol units and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Under the state’s 2025 Boater Freedom Act, these officers can no longer stop or board a vessel for a random safety check. They now need probable cause of a violation, such as reckless operation, before initiating a stop.

A stop made without probable cause can undermine the case that follows. We can determine whether the officer had a legitimate basis for the stop under this new standard and fight for a favorable outcome.

How We Challenge the Reliability of Marine Field Sobriety Tests

When law enforcement officers administer physical coordination tests on moving boats or unstable docks, natural environmental factors can mimic signs of intoxication. As a member of the National College for DUI Defense (NCDD), Attorney Blecher is highly skilled at exposing technical and physical flaws in marine sobriety testing.

Below are some ways that we contest unreliable results in BUI cases:

Unstable environments. Completing a finger-to-nose or palm-trace test on a rocking deck affected by wakes, wind, and currents can artificially create the appearance of physical impairment.
Environmental exhaustion. “Boater's fatigue” is a recognized condition caused by hours of sun exposure, dehydration, engine vibration, and glare that can mimic signs of intoxication, such as bloodshot eyes, lethargy, and lack of focus.
Improper administration. Arresting officers frequently fail to secure the vessel in calm waters, seat the operator correctly, or account for the boat's motion before conducting sobriety tests.

Continue Reading Read Less