Boating While Intoxicated Defense Lawyer
Michigan Drunk Boating Laws and Penalties
Not many states enforce drunk boating laws as strictly as Michigan. As of this year, the legal limit to operate a boat has been lowered from .10 to .08 — the same legal limit that applies to operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated on the road.
If you are facing a drunk boating charge in Michigan, you should take it seriously. Judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement certainly will.
If you have been arrested for Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) on a boat, contact drunk boating lawyer,
drunk boating lawyer, Aaron J. Boria today for a free consultation (734) 453-7806.
Penalties for Drunk Boating in Michigan
A conviction for drunk boating in Michigan can carry serious consequences, including:
- Up to 93 days in jail
- Up to 45 days of community service
- Up to $500 in fines, plus court costs
- Up to 2 years of probation
A second offense for drunk boating carries significantly harsher penalties, including mandatory community service and jail time.
- 10 to 90 days of community service
- Minimum of 48 hours in jail and up to a full year
- Fine of up to $1000
- Probation up to 2 years
A third offense for boating while intoxicated at any point in your life can be charged as a felony with 1 to 5 years in prison and up to $5000 in fines.
If you are convicted of drunk boating while a person under the age of 16 was on the boat, you may face:
- Mandatory jail time
- Mandatory community service
- Significant fines
- Probation
If someone is injured or killed as a result of drunk boating then you face a felony and years in prison. MCL 324.80176
If you refuse to submit to a preliminary breath test you will also face a civil infraction. If you are arrested and refuse a chemical test then your boating license will be suspended for 6 months.
Drunk Boating Lawyer
Whether you were arrested on land or sea drunk boating lawyer, Aaron J. Boria has got your back.
Just like on the road, the police must have probable cause to arrest you for drunk boating. If the police violated your rights while obtaining evidence then that evidence should be suppressed and your case dismissed.
Call (734) 453-7806 today for drunk boating lawyer, Aaron J. Boria
