WASHINGTON STATE DUI BLOG

How long does the prosecutor have to file "boating under the influence" charges?

The State or City Prosecutor has one (1) year to file charges from the day of the incident. Boating Under the Influence (BUI) is a misdemeanor with a maximum 90 days jail and $1000 in fines. This is the Criminal matter and does not address potential Coast Guard Civil sanctions. 

Can I Waive Arraignment in my BUI case?

Yes, probably. Washington State District and Municipal Courts require the defendants mandatory appearance at DUI or Physical Control arraignments. Fortunately, Boating under the Influence (BUI) cases are not included. So if you have timely obtained counsel - your lawyer may file paperwork waiving that initial arraignment hearing and enter a plea of not guilty on your behalf. The Court Clerk will then set a pre-trial hearing as your next Court date. Typically 30-45 days from the original arraignment date. Only your attorney can file the waiver of arraignment. If you represent yourself - pro se - you must appear. (Caveat: some local Court rules might still require your appearance)