BUI Attorney in Nashville

Facing BUI Charges in Nashville-Davidson? Our Team Is Here to Support You

If you or someone you care about has been arrested for boating under the influence in Nashville, we understand the fear and confusion that often follow. The shock of a BUI charge can leave you feeling isolated and anxious about what comes next for you, your record, and your reputation.

At Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby, we provide compassionate, non-judgmental guidance to people facing BUI charges in this area. We know one mistake or misunderstanding should not define your life. Our attorney has successfully supported thousands of clients through Tennessee’s criminal justice system, always making sure you feel heard and respected.

We recognize that time is critical. Our team is available day and night to answer your questions and set the groundwork for a strong defense. If you are looking for a BUI attorney in Nashville who approaches every case with skill and understanding, you have found a legal partner who cares about your peace of mind and your future.

Preserve your future and your boating privileges. We offer 24/7 available help and free consultations to immediately assess your BUI case. Contact our firm to hire a dedicated Nashville BUI defense lawyer. Call us at (615) 745-3434 or contact us online.

Understanding Tennessee BUI Law

Tennessee law is clear: operating a vessel on the state’s public waters while impaired is illegal. The BUI statute closely mirrors the DUI statute but applies to any vessel subject to registration, which includes most motorboats, jet skis, and pontoons.

You can be charged with BUI if you are operating a vessel while:

• Impairment-Based BUI: Under the influence of any intoxicant, drug, or combination that impairs your ability to operate the vessel safely.
• Per Se BUI: Having a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.08% or greater.

Key Differences Between BUI and DUI

While related, BUI is not the same as DUI, and these distinctions are vital for defense:

• No Mandatory Jail Time (First Offense): Unlike a first-offense DUI, a first-offense BUI in Tennessee generally carries no mandatory minimum jail time. This means the entire sentence may be served on probation.
• No Driver’s License Impact: A BUI conviction does not result in the suspension or revocation of your standard driver’s license.
• Judicial Diversion Eligibility: BUI convictions are often eligible for Judicial Diversion for first-time offenders, a path that leads to the eventual expungement of the criminal record.

Penalties and Consequences of a BUI Conviction in Nashville

BUI is a Class A Misdemeanor in Tennessee. While the penalties may not mirror DUI, they are severe and escalate quickly with subsequent offenses:

• First Offense:
  • Jail Time: Up to 11 months and 29 days (though often suspended for probation).
  • Fines: $250 to $2,500.
  • Boating Privilege Suspension: Up to one year.
  • Probation and possible mandatory Alcohol Safety Boating Program completion.
• Second Offense:
  • Fines: $500 to $2,500.
  • Boating Privilege Suspension: Two years.
• Third Offense:
  • Minimum Jail Time: 30 consecutive days (minimum).
  • Fines: $1,000 to $5,000.
  • Boating Privilege Suspension: Three to ten years.

A BUI conviction is permanent on your criminal record unless it is dismissed, you are acquitted, or you successfully complete Judicial Diversion. This is why a strategic Nashville BUI defense lawyer is crucial.

Our Firm's Strategic BUI Defense Approach

We provide personalized attention to every detail of your case, leveraging every advantage that the BUI statute offers over a traditional DUI prosecution.

• Challenging the Stop and Investigation: The initial encounter between the TWRA officer and your vessel must be legally justified. We challenge the officer's reasonable suspicion to stop the boat, which may be based only on vague observations of erratic operation. If the stop was unlawful, any evidence obtained afterward (including tests and statements) must be suppressed.
• Implied Consent and Chemical Testing: Tennessee's Implied Consent law applies to BUI. Refusing the chemical test (breath or blood) can result in a separate civil penalty—the suspension of your boating privileges. We analyze the administration of the chemical test itself:
  • Breathalyzer Calibration: We scrutinize the maintenance and calibration logs of the breath testing device.
  • Blood Draw Protocol: We ensure the blood draw was performed by qualified personnel and that the chain of custody was preserved. Any error in these protocols can lead to the suppression of the BAC result.
• Seeking Judicial Diversion: For first-time offenders, we aggressively pursue Judicial Diversion. If granted, the client serves a period of probation, and upon successful completion, the BUI charge is expunged from their public criminal record. This is often the primary goal of an effective BUI attorney in Nashville.

What to Do After a Boating Under the Influence Arrest

It is completely normal to feel overwhelmed after an arrest on waters like the Cumberland River or Percy Priest Lake. Taking the right steps can make a significant difference in your case and your peace of mind.

If you have been arrested for BUI in Nashville-Davidson, take these steps as soon as possible:

• Avoid making statements about your case to law enforcement, friends, or on social media until you have spoken with an attorney.
• Write down detailed notes about what happened before, during, and after the stop or arrest. Even small details may help your defense.
• Contact our team as soon as possible. Fast action allows us to protect your rights, gather and preserve evidence, and communicate with authorities on your behalf.
• Read all court paperwork and attend every scheduled appearance. Most BUI cases in Nashville-Davidson start in Davidson County General Sessions Court, so check your documents for dates and location.
• Respond promptly to correspondence from the court. Missing deadlines can make your situation more stressful and difficult to resolve.

We strive to lift the burden off your shoulders, guide you through each phase, and help you regain control of your situation as soon as possible.

Why Choose Us for Your BUI Defense in Nashville

At Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby, we have deep roots in Nashville-Davidson and bring years of focused criminal defense experience to every BUI case. Our clients appreciate our personalized attention, transparent communication, and the ability to reach our attorney whenever they need us.

We work to make high-quality legal defense affordable and accessible. You never have to worry about hidden fees or complicated billing. From your first conversation with us, you will understand your options, the likely process ahead, and the associated costs.

Our attorney’s experience handling thousands of cases—including many BUI matters before Davidson County General Sessions Court and in other Nashville-Davidson venues—means we understand what matters for clients here. We know how law enforcement and prosecutors in the area typically approach these charges. 

Past clients have valued our ability to explain legal complexity in plain English and our dedication to resolving each case with sensitivity to your unique needs. If you need a BUI lawyer in Nashville-Davidson who offers local knowledge and compassion, you are in the right place.

Start Your Defense: Contact Our BUI Team Today

The best way to protect your rights and regain control after a BUI arrest in Nashville-Davidson is to take action promptly. When you reach out to Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby, you will connect with an advocate who understands the pressures these charges bring. We will answer your immediate questions, describe your next steps, and begin developing a personalized plan for your situation.

Call (615) 745-3434 or fill out our online form for prompt, confidential help from a BUI attorney in Nashville you can trust.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect after a BUI arrest in Nashville-Davidson?

After a BUI arrest in Nashville-Davidson, you will often be given a citation or taken briefly into custody. Your case typically goes to Davidson County General Sessions Court for an initial appearance. There may be additional hearings and meetings with prosecutors, depending on your case. Our team will walk you through every step, handle court communication, and provide practical support so you know what to expect. Acting quickly can protect your rights and improve your chances of a better result.

How are BUI cases prosecuted in Tennessee courts?

BUI cases in Tennessee are prosecuted as criminal offenses with potential penalties such as fines or loss of boating privileges. Most first-time offenses are treated as misdemeanors, unless there are aggravating circumstances. Proceedings generally begin at Davidson County General Sessions Court where local prosecutors assess the evidence and may offer plea deals or diversion programs in some situations. Our familiarity with local court procedures and officials enables us to advise you on the likely path and best defense for your circumstances.

Will my boating license be suspended for a BUI?

Conviction for BUI in Tennessee may result in a suspended boating certificate. The length and conditions of a suspension can vary based on your record and court outcome. A BUI typically does not affect your regular driver's license, but it may have consequences for other state-issued licenses depending on the situation. We review possible impacts with you at the start and throughout your defense to minimize long-term effects.

How soon should I contact a BUI attorney after an arrest?

You should contact a BUI attorney as soon as possible after your arrest. Swift action enables our team to protect your rights, begin preserving evidence, and prepare a solid defense on your behalf. We offer 24/7 access to guidance so you are not left worrying or searching for answers. Early help can improve your peace of mind and your legal options.

What makes your approach to BUI defense different?

Our approach is centered on personal attention, local experience, and affordability. Our attorney has handled thousands of criminal cases in Nashville-Davidson and understands the nuances of the courts and prosecution here. We personalize every defense strategy to your situation, and you always have access to clear communication and direct support. Our commitment is to keep you informed, comfortable, and set up for the best outcome we can achieve.

How much will it cost to defend my BUI case?

We believe in transparent and fair pricing, with a focus on affordability. The cost to defend a BUI case can depend on factors like case complexity and whether your situation proceeds to trial. You will know the expected fees upfront, and we discuss your options before any commitment is required. Our open communication about finances helps you move forward without surprises or unnecessary stress.

Can you help if I'm an out-of-state visitor arrested for BUI here?

Yes, we regularly help out-of-state visitors and non-residents facing BUI charges in Nashville. Navigating Tennessee’s court system from a distance can feel overwhelming, but we simplify the process with virtual meetings, regular updates, and local representation. Our services aim to minimize travel and make court appearances as manageable as possible. Wherever you are from, we focus on making your defense clear, accessible, and effective.

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