A black letter W on a white background

Boating Under the Influence (BUI)

For strong defense against BUI charges in East Tennessee, reach out to my office today. I’m here to provide the support and guidance you need to navigate the legal system confidently.

Skilled BUI Defense Attorney

If you're facing a BUI charge in East Tennessee, you need a dedicated defense attorney who understands the intricacies of the law and the local court systems. I am committed to providing robust legal representation for individuals charged with BUI. These charges can carry serious consequences, including fines, probation, and even jail time, which is why having an experienced attorney is essential.

Understanding BUI Charges

In Tennessee, Boating Under the Influence (BUI) is taken just as seriously as driving a vehicle while under the influence. Under the Tennessee Code Annotated, it’s illegal to operate any vessel—whether recreational or commercial—while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any intoxicating substance.


This law applies to any watercraft subject to registration, which includes most motorboats, jet skis, and even some larger personal vessels. If you’re out on the water and operating a boat, you are expected to follow the same standards of sobriety as if you were driving a car.


Penalties for BUI In Tennessee

BUI is classified as a Class A misdemeanor in Tennessee, and the penalties are just as serious as a DUI.


If convicted, you could be facing:


Mandatory minimum 48 hours in jail (just like DUI)


Up to 11 months and 29 days in jail (although this will likely be probation)


Fines ranging from $350 to $1,500


Suspension of your ability to operate a watercraft for 1 year


Further, a BUI conviction remains on your criminal record, potentially affecting job prospects, professional licenses, and even future legal matters. That’s why having experienced legal representation is so critical.


At Woodard Law, I fight to avoid conviction, not just to minimize penalties. Call me and let's discuss how I can help.


Developing a Strong Defense

I believe that everyone deserves a strong defense, no matter the charge. By examining the details of your case and understanding your side of the story, I can develop a defense strategy that aims to achieve the best possible result. Whether it's negotiating a plea deal or taking your case to trial, my priority is to protect your rights and your future.

Personalized Legal Services

Located in Knoxville and serving the surrounding counties, I am deeply familiar with the East Tennessee legal landscape. I pride myself on offering personalized legal services tailored to each client's needs. My goal is to provide you with the guidance and support necessary to navigate the legal process with confidence.

Serving East Tennessee

If you or someone you know is facing misdemeanor charges, don't hesitate to contact my office. Together, we can work towards resolving your case with integrity and diligence, ensuring that your rights are protected every step of the way.

A black letter W on a white background

CONTACT ME TODAY


If you need expert legal representation, don’t hesitate to contact our firm today. I'm committed to protecting your rights and providing personalized guidance through every step of your legal journey. Schedule a consultation to discuss your case and discover how I can help you achieve the best possible outcome.