Practice Areas
Common Criminal Defense Matters in Maine
Maine's criminal defense cases are handled through a unified court system including District Courts, Superior Courts, and specialized problem-solving courts. The state follows Title 17-A of the Maine Revised Statutes for criminal law, with proceedings conducted in 16 counties across the state. Maine's approach emphasizes restorative justice and alternative sentencing options, particularly through its well-established Drug Courts and Veterans Courts. The Maine State Bar maintains strict requirements for criminal defense attorneys, ensuring qualified representation throughout the state.
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Drug possession and trafficking
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Federal criminal charges
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Domestic violence defense
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Criminal Defense Attorneys by City in Maine
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Why It Matters
Why Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney in Maine?
Maine-licensed attorneys understand the state's unique statutory framework under Title 17-A and the Maine Rules of Criminal Procedure. Local attorneys have established relationships with prosecutors across Maine's 16 counties and understand regional court practices that can significantly impact case strategy and outcomes.
Local Courts
Criminal defense cases in Maine are heard in the state's District Courts for misdemeanors and Superior Courts for felonies, with the Maine Supreme Judicial Court handling appeals. The U.S. District Court for the District of Maine handles federal criminal matters.
Maine Law
Maine Criminal Defense Laws & Deadlines
Maine criminal cases must generally be prosecuted within six years for most felonies under 17-A M.R.S. § 8, with no statute of limitations for murder and Class A crimes. The state follows the Maine Criminal Code which includes specific provisions for OUI cases, domestic violence, and drug offenses. Maine also has unique laws regarding expungement and sealing of criminal records under Title 15, Chapter 310.
Key Facts
What to Know About Criminal Defense in Maine
Cost to You
Free to submit your case
When to Act
Immediately after arrest or charges filed
Attorney Cost
Hourly rates, retainers, or flat fees vary by attorney.
Our Network
Criminal Defense attorneys as they join
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the penalties for OUI in Maine?
Maine OUI penalties include license suspension from 150 days to 6 years, fines from $500 to $2,100, and possible jail time up to 364 days for first offense. Subsequent offenses carry mandatory minimum jail sentences and longer license suspensions under 29-A M.R.S. § 2411.
How long do I have to appeal a criminal conviction in Maine?
Maine criminal appeals must be filed within 21 days of sentencing under Maine Rule of Appellate Procedure 2B. Post-conviction review petitions have different deadlines, typically within two years of final judgment, as outlined in M.R.U. Crim. P. 35A.
Can I get my criminal record sealed in Maine?
Maine allows expungement of certain criminal records under 15 M.R.S. § 2264, typically after waiting periods of 3-10 years depending on the offense class. Successful completion of deferred disposition agreements may also result in record sealing for qualifying cases.
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