Charged or Accused of Domestic Violence in Maine?
Take Immediate Action Now
If you’ve been accused or charged with domestic violence in Maine, you may be feeling overwhelmed, confused, or unsure of what comes next. These cases move quickly and prosecutors often pursue charges even without the cooperation of the alleged victim. The decisions you make now can have a lasting impact on your freedom, reputation, and future.
At The Maine Criminal Defense Group, our team of experienced domestic violence lawyers is led by Attorney William Bly, a respected criminal defense attorney with over 20 years of experience successfully defending clients across Maine. We understand how the system works, how these cases are prosecuted, and how to build a strong, personalized defense strategy on your behalf.
Whether this is your first encounter with the criminal justice system or you’re facing repeat allegations, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and start building your defense with trusted, experienced counsel by your side.
Call 207-571-8146 or contact us online to schedule a consult with one of our highly skilled criminal defense & OUI, DUI, DWI lawyers, serving Maine, today.
Table of Contents
Domestic violence defined in Maine
In Maine, domestic violence refers to any abusive behavior occurring between individuals with a close personal relationship. This includes spouses, former spouses, cohabitants, dating partners, and family members. The abuse may be physical, emotional, sexual, psychological, or financial, and does not always involve visible injuries.
Under Maine law, domestic violence offenses encompass a broad range of criminal charges, including but not limited to:
- Domestic Violence Assault,
- Domestic Violence Terrorizing
- Domestic Violence Stalking,
- Domestic Violence Criminal Threatening,
- Domestic Violence Reckless Conduct,
- Domestic Violence Strangulation
If you are accused of domestic violence in Maine, securing an experienced criminal defense attorney is critical. At The Maine Criminal Defense Group, we fight to protect your rights, challenge weak evidence, and build a strategic defense to secure the best possible outcome. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
Types of domestic violence Offenses in Maine
Domestic violence charges in Maine can involve a wide range of offenses, all carrying serious legal and personal consequences. A conviction may result in jail time, no-contact orders, a permanent criminal record, and the loss of key rights like firearm ownership. Prosecutors in Maine take these allegations seriously and pursue them aggressively, often regardless of the alleged victim’s wishes.
If you’ve been accused of domestic violence in Maine, it’s critical to understand the specific charges you’re facing. Each type of offense has unique legal elements and penalties, and knowing the differences can help your attorney build the strongest defense possible. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony, working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer near you is the first step toward protecting your future.
Domestic Violence Assault
Domestic Violence Assault, Maine Revised Statutes §207-A, involves intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury, or offensive physical contact, to a household or family member. Common examples include:
- Hitting, punching, or slapping
- Choking or strangling (which may elevate charges to a felony)
- Throwing objects or spitting during a dispute
Even seemingly minor physical contact can lead to criminal charges, especially if there’s a history of alleged abuse or prior convictions.
Domestic Violence Criminal Threatening
Domestic Violence Criminal Threatening, §209-A, includes words or actions that make someone fear immediate physical harm. This may involve:
- Verbal threats of violence
- Displaying a weapon to intimidate
- Threatening behavior that causes emotional fear
These charges often lack physical evidence, making it essential to work with a defense attorney who can challenge the credibility of the accusation.
Domestic Violence Terrorizing
Domestic Violence Terrorizing, §210-B, covers threats that cause fear for one’s safety or the safety of others. Examples include:
- Threatening to harm a partner, child, or family member
- Statements suggesting violent intent
- Emotional manipulation that causes significant distress
A conviction can lead to jail time, fines, and restraining orders that affect your everyday life.
Domestic Violence Stalking
Domestic Violence Stalking charges, §210-C, involve repeated, unwanted conduct that creates fear. This could include:
- Constant calls, messages, or attempts at contact
- Showing up uninvited at someone’s home or work
- Tracking or monitoring a partner’s movements
These cases often involve protective orders and can have serious legal consequences.
Domestic Violence Sexual Assault
Domestic violence sexual assault charges, §251, includes any non-consensual sexual activity between partners or family members, including:
- Coerced or forced sex acts
- Sexual contact with an incapacitated person
- Marital rape
Sexual assault is a felony in Maine and may result in long prison sentences and mandatory registration as a sex offender.
Domestic Violence Reckless Conduct
- Domestic Violence Reckless Conduct charges, §211-A, applies when someone puts a household member at risk through dangerous actions, such as:
- Firing a weapon recklessly in the home
- Aggressive driving with a partner or child present
- Handling dangerous objects in a threatening way
Depending on the facts, reckless conduct can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.
If you have been accused of domestic violence in Maine, it is crucial to act quickly. Prosecutors take these cases seriously, and even a false accusation can have life-altering consequences. At The Maine Criminal Defense Group, our skilled attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights, challenging weak evidence, and building a strong defense to fight the charges against you.
Call 207-571-8146 or contact us online to schedule a consult with one of our highly skilled criminal defense & OUI, DUI, DWI lawyers, serving Maine, today.
Penalties for a domestic violence conviction in Maine
A domestic violence conviction in Maine, can have serious and lasting consequences, affecting your freedom, finances, and future. The legal system in Maine strictly prosecutes domestic violence offenses, and even a first-time conviction can result in jail time, fines, and restrictions on your rights. If you are facing charges, it’s critical to understand the potential domestic violence penalties and take immediate action to protect your future.
First-Time Domestic Violence Offense (Class D Misdemeanor)
For those accused of domestic violence assault for the first time, the charge is typically classified as a Class D misdemeanor under Maine law. This can result in:
- Up to 364 days in jail
- Fines of up to $2,000
- Mandatory probation and counseling
- Protective orders preventing contact with the alleged victim
Even if you avoid jail time, a conviction will leave you with a criminal record, which can impact your employment, housing, and firearm rights.
Second Domestic Violence Offense (Class C Felony)
A second domestic violence charge, particularly if the alleged victim is the same person, is treated much more severely. With a prior conviction, the charge is often upgraded to a Class C felony, leading to:
- Up to 5 years in state prison
- Fines of up to $5,000
- Stricter probation terms, including mandatory domestic violence intervention programs
- Longer protective orders, which may restrict contact with children or family members
Prosecutors are aggressive in pursuing repeat offenders, making it even more important to have a strong legal defense.
Felony Domestic Violence Charges and Repeat Offenders
If you have multiple domestic violence convictions or if the alleged offense involves aggravating factors, such as strangulation, the use of a weapon, or serious bodily harm, you may face felony charges with enhanced penalties, including:
- Extended prison sentences beyond five years
- Permanent firearm restrictions
- Inability to have contact with family members, even after serving a sentence
- Deportation for non-citizens
In Maine, even violating a protection order or bail conditions in a domestic violence case can lead to additional criminal charges, further complicating your legal situation.
Additional Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction in Maine
A domestic violence conviction in Maine can lead to significant, life-altering consequences. Beyond legal penalties, the following collateral impacts can deeply affect your future:
Child Custody Issues
A domestic violence conviction can significantly affect custody arrangements. If you currently share custody or wish to pursue custody, the court will prioritize the child’s safety, potentially hindering your ability to maintain or secure custody.
Firearm Restrictions
Maine law prohibits individuals convicted of domestic violence (whether misdemeanor or felony) from possessing firearms or ammunition. Violating this restriction is considered a federal offense, which could result in severe legal consequences.
Loss of Voting Rights
A felony conviction for domestic violence can strip you of your right to vote, diminishing your voice in future elections and reducing your participation in civic life.
Challenges in Employment and Housing
A conviction, particularly for felony domestic violence, can create barriers to employment and housing. Many employers and landlords conduct background checks, and a criminal record may disqualify you from opportunities.
Long-Term Consequences
The mere existence of a criminal record can haunt you long after serving your sentence. Other collateral consequences might include issues with professional licensing, immigration status, and eligibility for public benefits.
Given these far-reaching impacts, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced defense attorney if you’re facing domestic violence charges. At The Maine Criminal Defense Group, we understand the full scope of these consequences and are committed to protecting your rights and future. Let us help you fight the charges and mitigate the potential impacts on your life.
Have You Been Charged with Domestic Violence in Maine? (Video)
Contact Our Maine Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys Today
A domestic violence conviction in Maine can permanently affect your future. In addition to jail time and a criminal record, you could face a lifetime ban on firearm possession under federal law—jeopardizing your right to hunt, target shoot, or legally own a gun. Violating that ban can result in up to 10 years in federal prison.
At The Maine Criminal Defense Group, we are committed to protecting your rights, freedom, and reputation. With offices in Portland, Kennebunk, and Brunswick, we represent clients across Southern Maine and throughout the state. If you’ve been charged with domestic violence, don’t wait to get legal help.
Call us today or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced Maine domestic violence defense lawyer.
Call 207-571-8146 or contact us online to schedule a consult with one of our highly skilled criminal defense & OUI, DUI, DWI lawyers, serving Maine, today.
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