The Florida Keys are a popular destination for snorkeling, boating, and fishing, and Key Largo itself is home to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. As home to many marine wonders, it’s not surprising that Florida has strict boating and Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regulations that must be followed at all times.
If you’ve been charged with a boating or FWC violation, the experienced defense attorneys at Keys Criminal Defense could help you fight for your rights. Offenses relating to boating, fishing, and hunting can be extremely complicated, so the help of a Key Largo boating and FWC violation lawyer could be essential to successfully resolving your case.
Boating offenses, such as BUI, reckless operation, and driving without the proper licensing, can have serious legal consequences, including hefty fines and possibly jail time. While being on the water is often an exciting experience, it is critical that you and all other passengers follow the necessary regulations to avoid violations and legal repercussions.
The Fourth Amendment search and seizure law applies to boating offenses, as an individual on a vessel is protected from indiscriminate and arbitrary searches and seizures by the State of Florida. Understanding how to protect yourself during a search of your boat can help you enforce and protect your legal rights.
You do not have to provide any detailed information to the game warden or other law enforcement officer searching your boat. Because the laws regarding vessel safety violations are numerous, having a knowledgeable Key Largo attorney on your side could help you ensure your Fourth Amendment rights stay intact when being investigated for boating or FWC violations.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is associated with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and supports conservation projects and wildlife refuges. Individuals who use the state parks throughout Florida may report boating, wildlife, and fishing violations anonymously. Violations of FWC regulations could include trap molestation, undersized fishing, out-of-season fish possession, and other marine resource violations.
FWC officers may perform safety inspections of vessels using the waterways. Certain items are critical to boating safety, and the following are required to be present on vessels:
The list above does not apply to all watercraft in Florida, as airboats, for example, are regulated under Florida Statute section 327.391.
The FWC also conducts fishing inspections to ensure individuals are following regulations put in place to promote safety and protect endangered species and wildlife resources. Inspections could include spot checks to examine:
A boating and FWC violation attorney could help you understand how different laws apply to your arrest or offense in Key Largo. The majority of the regulations associated with FWC violations are complex, and it is often necessary to have a lawyer by your side to provide an adequate defense.
The Key Largo boating and FWC violation lawyers at Keys Criminal Defense are here to help you enforce your legal rights. Losing your liberty can be devastating, and it is in your best interest to focus on what you can do to strengthen your case. Putting together a strong legal strategy will help you feel more confident about proceeding with your case. Reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation.
(919) 726-9487