Skilled Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers in Falmouth, Maine
Being accused of domestic violence in Falmouth, Maine, can quickly turn your life upside down. Even without a conviction, you may face protective orders, restricted contact with your children, and serious damage to your personal and professional reputation. A conviction can bring jail time, permanent firearm bans, and a lasting criminal record that affects housing, employment, and more.
Many domestic violence cases arise from highly emotional situations and may involve false accusations or misunderstandings. Prosecutors in Cumberland County pursue these charges aggressively—even if the alleged victim does not wish to proceed. That’s why it’s critical to have an experienced criminal defense attorney near you who can act quickly to protect your rights and build a strong legal defense.
At The Maine Criminal Defense Group, our Falmouth criminal defense attorneys understand what’s at stake in domestic violence cases. We thoroughly review the facts, challenge weak or inconsistent evidence, and ensure that your side of the story is fully heard. If you are not a U.S. citizen, we also assess the immigration consequences and help you make informed decisions throughout the process.
Call 207-571-8146 or contact us online to schedule a consult with one of our highly skilled criminal defense & OUI lawyers, serving Southern Maine, today.
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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:
- Domestic Violence Assault (Maine Revised Statutes §207-A) – Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury or offensive contact to a household or family member.
- Domestic Violence Terrorizing (§210-B) – Making threats of violence that cause fear of serious harm.
- Domestic Violence Stalking (§210-C) – Engaging in a pattern of behavior that causes a person to fear for their safety.
- Domestic Violence Criminal Threatening (§209-A) – Using words or actions to make a victim reasonably believe they are in imminent danger.
- Domestic Violence Reckless Conduct (§211-A) – Engaging in dangerous conduct that creates a substantial risk of injury.
- Domestic Violence Strangulation (§208-D) – Restricting another person’s breathing by applying pressure to the throat or neck.
If you are accused of domestic violence in Falmouth, 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 Charges in Falmouth, Maine
Domestic violence charges in Falmouth can stem from a wide range of allegations—and all carry serious legal, personal, and professional consequences. In many cases, even a single accusation can result in immediate protective orders, arrest, or court-ordered restrictions. Prosecutors in Cumberland County aggressively pursue these cases, which is why understanding the exact nature of the charge is essential to mounting an effective defense.
Domestic Violence Assault
This charge applies when someone is accused of intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury or offensive physical contact to a family or household member. Examples include:
- Hitting, punching, or slapping
- Choking or strangling (often charged as a felony)
- Throwing objects or engaging in other aggressive physical acts
Even seemingly minor contact can lead to criminal charges—especially if there is a history of alleged abuse.
Domestic Violence Criminal Threatening
Criminal threatening involves using words or actions that cause another person to fear imminent physical harm. This may include:
- Verbal threats of injury or violence
- Displaying or brandishing a weapon
- Intimidating gestures or behavior that causes fear
These cases often rely on the alleged victim’s statements, making credibility and context key elements for your criminal defense attorney to challenge.
Domestic Violence Terrorizing
Terrorizing charges involve threats that create serious emotional distress or fear for personal safety. This offense can arise from:
- Threats directed toward a partner, child, or relative
- Comments or actions suggesting intent to cause harm
- Manipulative behavior that leads to fear of violence
A conviction can result in jail, fines, and court-issued protective orders.
Domestic Violence Stalking
Stalking involves a repeated pattern of unwanted attention or surveillance that causes a person to fear for their safety. Examples include:
- Constant messaging, calls, or online harassment
- Appearing at the alleged victim’s home, school, or workplace
- Using tracking devices or surveillance tools
These charges are taken seriously and can result in immediate no-contact orders and felony prosecution.
Domestic Violence Sexual Assault
This includes any non-consensual sexual activity within a domestic or intimate relationship. Examples may involve:
- Forced or coerced sexual contact
- Sexual acts with an incapacitated or intoxicated individual
- Non-consensual sexual contact between spouses
Sexual assault is a felony in Maine and may result in years of imprisonment and mandatory sex offender registration.
Domestic Violence Reckless Conduct
Reckless conduct refers to actions that create a substantial risk of harm to a household or family member. Examples include:
- Discharging a firearm in the home
- Driving dangerously with a partner or child in the vehicle
- Wielding dangerous objects in a threatening way
Depending on the circumstances, reckless conduct can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.
If you’ve been accused of domestic violence in Falmouth, Maine, it’s important to act quickly. A single charge—even if based on false or exaggerated claims—can disrupt your life and lead to severe penalties. At The Maine Criminal Defense Group, our Falmouth criminal defense attorneys have the experience and determination to protect your rights, challenge flawed evidence, and build a powerful defense on your behalf.
Call 207-571-8146 or contact us online to schedule a consult with one of our highly skilled criminal defense & OUI lawyers, serving Southern Maine, today.
Penalties for domestic violence convictions in Maine
A domestic violence conviction in Falmouth, 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.
Penalties for a First-Time Domestic Violence Offense
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.
Penalties for a Second Domestic Violence Offense
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.
Penalties for Repeat Offenders Charges
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
A domestic violence conviction in Falmouth, Maine, can have long-lasting consequences beyond jail time and fines. Even after serving a sentence, individuals convicted of domestic violence often face significant personal, financial, and social challenges that can affect every aspect of their lives.
If you have been accused of domestic violence, it’s critical to understand these collateral consequences and take proactive steps to protect your future.
Impact on Child Custody and Parental Rights
If you are a parent facing domestic violence charges, your ability to maintain custody or visitation rights could be severely impacted. Maine family courts prioritize the best interests of the child, and a conviction for domestic violence may result in:
- Loss of custody or restricted visitation due to safety concerns.
- Supervised visitation requirements, preventing you from being alone with your child.
- Difficulty modifying custody agreements in the future.
Even if the allegations are exaggerated or false, a domestic violence charge could negatively influence family court proceedings, making it essential to have a strong legal defense.
Firearm Restrictions
Under Maine and federal law, a conviction for domestic violence-related offenses results in a permanent ban on firearm ownership. This restriction applies whether the conviction is for a misdemeanor or felony. Violating this prohibition is a serious federal offense, potentially leading to additional charges and extended prison time.
Employment and Housing Challenges
A criminal record for domestic violence can make it extremely difficult to find or maintain employment. Many employers conduct background checks, and a conviction for a violent offense can disqualify you from certain jobs—especially in fields like education, healthcare, government, and law enforcement.
Housing can also be impacted, as:
- Landlords may deny applications based on a criminal record.
- Rental agreements may be terminated if a conviction violates lease terms.
- Public housing eligibility may be affected, limiting available options.
A domestic violence conviction can create barriers to stability, making it harder to rebuild your life after facing charges.
Professional Licensing and Immigration Consequences
If you hold a professional license—such as a medical, legal, or teaching certification—a conviction could lead to disciplinary actions or even license revocation. This can jeopardize your career and financial stability.
For non-U.S. citizens, a domestic violence conviction could result in deportation, visa denial, or difficulty obtaining citizenship. Immigration authorities treat domestic violence offenses as serious crimes, making it crucial to fight the charges with the help of a skilled defense attorney.
The consequences of a domestic violence conviction in Maine extend far beyond the courtroom. If you are facing charges, you need an experienced defense attorney who understands the complex legal system and will fight to protect your rights, reputation, and future.
Call 207-571-8146 or contact us online to schedule a consult with one of our highly skilled criminal defense & OUI lawyers, serving Southern Maine, today.
Penalties for Violating Protection From Abuse Orders
If the abused party files a protective order, any violation of a protection from abuse order can lead to severe consequences. A Protection from Abuse Order issued by the court prohibits any contact and prevents further abuse.
If an individual violates the no-contact restrictions, they will be charged with a class D misdemeanor offense, which is punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a fine of $2,000.00.
If an individual chooses to violate the PFA again or is charged with another crime of domestic violence, they will be facing a class C felony, and punished accordingly. Under Maine law, a class C felony carries the possibility of up to 5 years in state prison, a fine of $5,000.00 and 3 years of probation.
Have You Been Charged with Domestic Violence in Maine? (Video)
Contact Our Falmouth Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
If you’ve been charged with domestic violence in Falmouth, Maine, you could be facing jail time, steep fines, firearm restrictions, and lasting damage to your future—including child custody, employment, and housing opportunities.
At The Maine Criminal Defense Group, our Falmouth domestic violence defense attorneys have the experience and determination to protect your rights and challenge the case against you. Call now or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with a trusted criminal defense attorney near you.
Call 207-571-8146 or contact us online to schedule a consult with one of our highly skilled criminal defense & OUI lawyers, serving Southern Maine, today.
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