If you have been charged with a marine violation, contact the skilled boating and FWC violation attorneys at Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC. Our Marathon marine violation lawyers offer effective representation and outstanding customer service.
Unlike other attorneys in the area, our team treats every client with dignity and respect. We could work diligently to protect your rights and ensure the best possible outcome of your case, whether you are a long-time local, a new resident, or a tourist on vacation. Contact us today to keep this situation from turning your life upside down.
Most marine violation charges relate to boating under the influence (BUI), reckless or careless operation of a vessel, fish and wildlife violations, and issues with equipment or registration. The experienced defense attorneys at Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC could help with all of these issues and more.
BUI charges are among the most common and potentially most expensive marine violation charges on the list. Much like driving under the influence (DUI), individuals can be charged with BUI if they have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or more. Intoxication with other substances, both legal and illegal, can also lead to BUI charges in Marathon.
Florida courts take BUI charges very seriously. According to state sentencing guidelines, first-time offenders may be required to pay a fine ranging from $500 to $1,000 and spend up to six months in jail. Second-time offenders may be fined $1,000 to $2,000 and face a nine-month incarceration. Third-time offenders could face fines of up to $5,000, particularly if the violation occurs within 10 years of a previous incident, and may be sentenced to up to five years in prison. Finally, individuals arrested for a fourth BUI will face fines, prison, and an automatic felony charge.
Other marine violations could include fishing without the proper licensing and equipment or not measuring the correct length of catches. Individuals could also be charged for fishing in prohibited areas, capturing too many fish at once, or fishing for protected species.
Contact an attorney with Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC for more information on the potential charges and penalties regarding marine violations in Marathon.
The best advice for individuals charged with marine violations is to remain silent and polite while dealing with law enforcement. It is okay to provide identification, but beyond that, ask to speak to your Marathon marine violation attorney.
Most marine violation citations are similar to traffic tickets in that signing for one is not admitting guilt. Instead, signing a citation is the same as accepting a court date.
When meeting with your attorney for the first time, bring:
During an initial consultation, your Marathon marine violation defense attorney will assess the situation and charges, explain your legal options, and provide additional information on what you can expect from the legal process.
Don’t go to court alone. If you need a Marathon marine violation lawyer, contact Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC today for a consultation. Our attorneys have helped many clients in similar situations and have extensive experience in this unique area of law.
We are ready to fight aggressively on your behalf and look forward to meeting you, hearing your story, and crafting a creative defense. Call now.
