Branson Boating Under the Influence (BUI) Defense

Boating Under the Influence (BUI) Defense in Branson, Missouri: Protecting Your Rights on the Water​

Missouri’s picturesque lakes, including Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo, offer residents and visitors alike the opportunity to enjoy boating and water recreation. However, operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense in Missouri, known as Boating Under the Influence (BUI) or Boating While Intoxicated (BWI). If you’re facing BUI charges in Branson or the surrounding areas, Scrivner Law Firm is here to provide experienced legal defense to protect your rights and future.

Understanding Boating Under the Influence (BUI) in Missouri

In Missouri, it’s illegal to operate any vessel while intoxicated, whether it’s a motorized boat, sailboat, jet ski, or even a non-motorized watercraft like a canoe or kayak. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits are:​

• 0.08% or higher for individuals operating a motorized vessel
  
• 0.04% or higher for commercial boat operators​

Impairment can result from alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription medications, or any substance that affects your ability to safely operate a vessel. Being charged with BUI can lead to severe penalties, including fines, jail time, loss of boating privileges, and more.​

Common Scenarios Leading to BUI Charges

Law enforcement in Taney County, especially during peak boating seasons and holidays, actively patrols waterways for signs of impaired boating. Common situations that may result in BUI charges include:​

• Holiday or Weekend Boating: Increased boating activity and alcohol consumption during holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day can lead to heightened law enforcement presence and BUI arrests.​
  
• Boating Accidents: If you’re involved in a boating accident and law enforcement suspects alcohol or drugs were a factor, you may be tested for impairment and charged with BUI.
  
• Routine Safety Checks: Officers often conduct routine safety checks on boats to ensure compliance with state laws. If they suspect impairment during these checks, they may administer field sobriety tests or breathalyzer tests.​

Even minimal alcohol consumption can lead to BUI charges if law enforcement believes you’re impaired.​

Missouri BUI Penalties

Under Missouri Revised Statutes § 577.013, the penalties for BUI offenses vary based on the circumstances and prior offenses:​

• Class B Misdemeanor: First-time BUI offense.​
  
• Class A Misdemeanor: If the defendant is a prior boating offender or if a person under 17 is present in the vessel.​
  
• Class E Felony: If the defendant is a persistent boating offender or causes physical injury to another person while boating intoxicated.​
  
• Class D Felony: If the defendant is an aggravated boating offender or causes serious physical injury to another person or a law enforcement officer.​
  
• Class C Felony: If the defendant is a chronic boating offender or causes the death of another person.​
  
• Class B Felony: If the defendant is a habitual boating offender or causes the death of a law enforcement officer.​
  
• Class A Felony: For habitual offenders with prior serious offenses.​

Penalties may include mandatory imprisonment, community service, participation in treatment programs, and continuous alcohol monitoring.​

Why Choose Scrivner Law Firm for Your BUI Defense

Experience and Insight

Attorney Dayrell Scrivner, the founder of Scrivner Law Firm, brings over 30 years of legal experience, including 20 years as a prosecutor. His background provides invaluable insight into the prosecution’s strategies, allowing him to anticipate their arguments and develop a strong defense for his clients.​

Client-Focused Representation

At Scrivner Law Firm, we prioritize our clients’ needs and rights. We understand the stress and uncertainty that come with facing criminal charges and are committed to providing personalized attention and clear communication throughout the legal process.​

Proven Results

Our firm has a track record of securing favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges. We utilize a comprehensive approach, including thorough investigations, strategic negotiations, and, when necessary, vigorous courtroom defense.​

Steps to Take If Charged with BUI

1. Do Not Admit Guilt: Avoid making statements or admissions to law enforcement without legal representation.​
   
2. Document the Incident: Write down all details of the incident, including the timeline, interactions with law enforcement, and any witnesses.​
   
3. Contact an Attorney Immediately: Reach out to Scrivner Law Firm as soon as possible to discuss your case and begin building your defense.​

Contact Scrivner Law Firm Today

If you’re facing BUI charges in Branson or the surrounding areas, don’t navigate the legal system alone. Contact Scrivner Law Firm for experienced and dedicated legal defense.​