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BUI

BUI Attorney in Boise

Arrested for Boating Under the Influence? Call a Certified Attorney in Boise

At Atkinson Law Office, we understand the complexities and stress of facing a Boating Under the Influence (BUI) charge in Boise, ID. With a commitment to honesty and vigilance, our team is ready to help you navigate the legal system and achieve a fair outcome. 

Our high success rate and dedication to client advocacy set us apart as the go-to BUI lawyers in the region. 

Our comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of your case is thoroughly examined, from the initial arrest circumstances to the blood alcohol tests conducted. Leveraging local Boise contacts and legal insights, we create a defense tailored to your specific situation and needs, significantly increasing your chances of a favorable outcome.

Our BUI defense attorney in Boise is a Certified Criminal Law Specialist offering free consultations and affordable legal support. Contact us online or call (208) 670-8164 now—we’re ready to fight for you.

Understanding BUI Laws in Idaho

In Idaho, the laws governing Boating Under the Influence are similar to those for driving a motor vehicle while under the influence

Idaho Code § 67-7034 states that it is unlawful for any person to operate or be in actual physical control of a vessel while:

  • Under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both; or
  • Having an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or more, as shown by analysis of their breath or blood; or
  • Having an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or more, as shown by analysis of their breath or blood, if the operator is under 21 years of age.

The law applies to all vessels, including motorboats, sailboats, jet skis, and other watercraft. The term "vessel" is broadly defined, meaning that you can face a BUI charge on almost any type of watercraft. The prosecution's case often relies on subjective evidence, such as the observations of a law enforcement officer, as well as chemical test results. 

A knowledgeable Boise BUI lawyer will scrutinize every piece of this evidence, looking for any inconsistencies or flaws that can be used to your advantage.

Key Elements the Prosecution Must Prove

To convict you of a BUI in Idaho, the prosecution must prove the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

  • Operation of a Vessel: The state must prove that you were in actual physical control of a vessel.
  • On the Water: The state must prove that the vessel was being operated on the waters of Idaho.
  • Intoxication: The state must prove that you were under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both, which impaired your ability to operate the vessel safely.

The "intoxication" element is the most contested part of a BUI case. While a BAC of 0.08 or higher creates a legal presumption of intoxication, a BUI defense attorney in Boise can challenge the validity of the chemical tests, the calibration of the equipment, and the procedures used by law enforcement. Furthermore, the state can attempt to prove intoxication through an officer's observations of your behavior and performance on field sobriety tests, all of which are subjective and open to legal challenge.

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Why Trust Atkinson Law Office?

What Sets Us Apart
  • Empathetic Guidance
    Understanding the personal and legal challenges our clients face, we offer empathetic guidance and unwavering support to help them navigate their DUI cases with confidence.
  • Dedicated Advocacy
    We are committed to providing diligent and ethical representation, fighting for the best possible outcomes while maintaining the integrity of the legal profession.
  • Compassionate Representation
    We genuinely care about our clients' well-being and future, offering compassionate and personalized legal support through every step of their DUI case.
  • Integrity and Transparency
    We uphold the highest standards of honesty and transparency in all our dealings, ensuring our clients are always well-informed and trust in the legal process.

Our Comprehensive Approach to BUI Defense

A BUI charge is not an automatic conviction. At Atkinson Law Office, PLLC, we believe that every person deserves a vigorous defense. Our approach is methodical, strategic, and focused on identifying every possible weakness in the prosecution's case. 

Every case is unique, and we develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. As a seasoned BUI defense attorney in Boise, we will leverage every possible defense, including:

  • Challenging the Intoxication Element: We can argue that the chemical test results (blood or breath) were inaccurate due to improper calibration, flawed procedures, or a medical condition. We can also challenge the subjective evidence of intoxication, such as field sobriety tests, by arguing that your performance was affected by the motion of the boat, weather conditions, or other factors unrelated to intoxication.
  • Disputing the "Operation" of a Vessel: In some cases, we may be able to argue that you were not in "actual physical control" of the vessel. For example, if the boat was anchored, or if someone else was in control of the vessel.
  • Constitutional Violations: We will challenge any violation of your Fourth Amendment rights (unlawful search and seizure), Fifth Amendment rights (right to remain silent), or Sixth Amendment rights (right to an attorney). If evidence was obtained illegally, it may be suppressed, which can significantly weaken the prosecution's case.
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Experience & Empathy You Can Rely On—Contact Our Boise BUI Attorneys Today

Founded in 2010, our firm prides itself on the personal experiences of our partners with the justice system, offering unique insights and empathy for those unjustly accused. Our multilingual capabilities allow us to serve a diverse clientele, strengthening our ability to communicate effectively with all clients. Our deep-rooted understanding of the emotional and legal turmoil associated with BUI charges makes us not just legal representatives, but empathetic companions throughout your legal journey.

We ensure that cultural differences or language barriers never hinder your access to fair legal representation. This is critical in a city like Boise, where the growing diversity demands personalized and inclusive legal services. We dedicate ourselves to treating each case with sensitivity and confidentiality, ensuring that your dignity is maintained at every step.

Our defense process goes through the following stages:

  • Initial Consultation: We begin with a comprehensive discussion to understand your case details and provide preemptive legal advice. This consultation is vital in aligning expectations and setting a strategic roadmap tailored to your needs. We encourage you to bring any documentation or evidence you have, as it allows us to assess the case's nuances right from the start.
  • Case Investigation: Our team conducts a thorough investigation of the evidence, leveraging local insights and legal strategies specific to Boise. We meticulously analyze every piece of evidence, from police reports to eyewitness accounts, to identify inconsistencies or procedural mistakes that could bolster your defense.
  • Personalized Defense Strategy: We tailor defense strategies reflecting our deep commitment to ensuring fair treatment. Recognizing that each BUI case is unique, our strategies are adaptive, aimed at mitigating immediate legal consequences while protecting your long-term interests.
  • Representation in Court: Our attorneys are experienced in both state and federal courts, ensuring professional representation throughout the legal process. We work diligently to present compelling arguments and negotiate favorable terms that reflect the realities of your situation.
  • Post-Judgment Support: We continue to assist with any potential aftermath, ensuring our clients have ongoing support. Beyond the court’s decision, we provide guidance on how to handle the implications of your case outcome, offering resources for rehabilitation or community service if necessary.

Our process begins with a simple call, leading to a no-obligation consultation where we discuss your case's specifics and map out a logical, defense-oriented plan together.

 Contact us online or call at (208) 670-8164 for a free consultation with our BUI attorney in Boise.

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