Experienced Domestic Violence Defense Lawyers in York, Maine
A domestic violence accusation in York, Maine, can have immediate and far-reaching consequences. Even without a conviction, you may be subject to restraining orders, custody limitations, and damage to your personal and professional reputation. A conviction can result in jail time, loss of firearm rights, and a permanent criminal record that affects your ability to secure housing, employment, and future opportunities.
Domestic violence cases often arise from emotionally charged situations and may involve false allegations or serious misunderstandings. In York County, prosecutors aggressively pursue these charges—even when the alleged victim does not want to move forward. That’s why it’s critical to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney near you who can respond quickly, protect your rights, and begin building a strong defense strategy.
At The Maine Criminal Defense Group, our York criminal defense attorneys bring decades of experience to domestic violence cases across Maine. We conduct a detailed investigation of the facts, challenge weak or inconsistent evidence, and ensure your voice is heard throughout the legal process. If you are a non-citizen, we also assess potential immigration consequences to help you make informed decisions about your defense.
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.
Table of Contents
What Constitutes Domestic Violence in York, Maine?
In Maine, domestic violence is defined as abusive behavior committed against someone with whom the accused has a close or family relationship. This includes spouses, former spouses, dating partners, cohabitants, and family members. Abuse may be physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, or even financial—and it does not require visible injuries to result in a criminal charge.
Under Maine law, domestic violence is not limited to a single offense but is instead a legal classification that applies to a variety of criminal charges when committed within a domestic context and can include:
- 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’re facing a domestic violence allegation in York, Maine, it’s important to understand that prosecutors treat these cases with urgency and seriousness—even when evidence is limited or the situation is based on a misunderstanding. At The Maine Criminal Defense Group, we will fight to protect your rights, challenge weak evidence, and build a strategic defense to secure the best possible outcome.
Types of domestic violence charges in York, Maine
Domestic violence charges in York can involve a wide range of conduct—and all come with serious consequences. From protective orders to felony convictions, these cases can quickly turn your life upside down. Prosecutors pursue domestic violence aggressively in York County, which is why understanding the specific charges you’re facing is critical to building an effective legal defense.
Domestic Violence Assault
This charge 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
Criminal threatening 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
This offense 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
Stalking charges 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
This 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
This charge 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 York, 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 lawyers, serving Southern Maine, today.
Penalties for domestic violence convictions in York
Penalties for a domestic violence conviction in York, Maine, carries serious and far-reaching consequences. In addition to jail time and steep fines, a conviction can lead to long-term damage to your personal and professional life—including limitations on child custody, employment opportunities, housing access, and firearm ownership. Maine prosecutors treat these offenses with urgency, and even a first-time conviction can have a lasting impact.
Penalties for a First-Time Domestic Violence Offense
A first offense for domestic violence assault is typically charged as a Class D misdemeanor. If convicted, you may face:
- Up to 364 days in jail
- Fines of up to $2,000
- Probation and mandatory counseling
- Protective orders that prohibit contact with the alleged victim
Even if no jail time is imposed, a conviction results in a permanent criminal record, which can interfere with your job, housing applications, and civil rights, including firearm possession.
Penalties for a Second Domestic Violence Offense
Repeat domestic violence offenses—especially involving the same alleged victim—are taken much more seriously under Maine law. A second offense is often elevated to a Class C felony, carrying:
- Up to 5 years in state prison
- Fines of up to $5,000
- Stricter probation terms and mandatory completion of a domestic violence intervention program
- Extended protective orders, which may limit access to children or shared property
Prosecutors in York County aggressively pursue repeat offenders, increasing the need for a focused, strategic legal defense.
Aggravated or Repeat Offender Penalties
If you have multiple prior convictions or the incident involved aggravating factors—such as strangulation, use of a weapon, or serious bodily injury—you may be charged with a higher-level felony, facing:
- Extended prison terms beyond five years
- Permanent firearm prohibitions under state and federal law
- Loss of parental rights or contact with family members
- Deportation risks for non-citizens
Additionally, violating a Protection From Abuse Order or bail conditions in a domestic violence case can result in separate criminal charges, compounding the penalties and complexity of your case.
Additional Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction
A domestic violence conviction in York, 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 a Protection From Abuse (PFA) Order in York
Violating a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order in York, Maine, is a serious criminal offense with harsh legal consequences. These court-issued orders are designed to prevent contact between the accused and the protected individual, often in domestic violence cases. Even accidental or non-violent contact can result in immediate arrest and formal charges.
A first violation of a PFA order is typically charged as a Class D misdemeanor, punishable by:
- Up to 364 days in jail
- Fines of up to $2,000
If the violation is repeated—or if the individual is also charged with another domestic violence-related offense—prosecutors may pursue a Class C felony. This elevated charge carries:
- Up to 5 years in state prison
- Fines of up to $5,000
- Up to 3 years of probation
Maine courts enforce these orders strictly. Judges are unlikely to show leniency without a strong legal argument supported by evidence and context. That’s why anyone accused of violating a PFA order in York should consult a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney near you as soon as possible.
Have You Been Charged with Domestic Violence in Maine? (Video)
Contact Our York Domestic Violence Defense Attorneys
A domestic violence charge in York, Maine, can carry serious and lasting consequences—jail time, steep fines, firearm restrictions, and long-term effects on your family, reputation, and future. These cases move quickly, and early legal intervention is critical.
At The Maine Criminal Defense Group, our York criminal defense attorneys have the experience, skill, and dedication to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome. Call today or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with a trusted 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.
Domestic Violence Articles
Defending Maine domestic violence charges Being charged with domestic violence in Maine is a serious legal matter with consequences that can impact your freedom, reputation, and future. Whether the allegation[...]
A domestic violence conviction can have serious consequences in Maine Assault, criminal threatening, and reckless conduct in domestic settings can all be classed as domestic violence in Maine—and criminal charges[...]
Defending those accused of domestic violence in Southern Maine Assault, criminal threatening, and reckless conduct in domestic settings can all be classed as domestic violence in Maine—and criminal charges can[...]
Sexual assault and sexual battery both refer to criminal offenses where a victim does not provide consent to sexual contact. This contact may or may not involve penetration, force, violence,[...]
The domestic violence and stalking laws in Maine are currently being updated to address some shortcomings in the previous laws and to add clarity for both victims and accused parties[...]
In recent years, convictions for domestic violence offenses in Maine have increased as state prosecutors rigorously pursue cases. This has led to harsher penalties for offenders, which makes it even[...]
Crimes of domestic violence in the state of Maine can be confusing. This is because crimes of domestic violence are really just other crimes, like assault or battery, when those[...]
A protection from abuse order (PFA) can make it illegal for an individual to contact you or your children in the state of Maine. Filing a PFA is often a[...]
Protection from Abuse Orders (PFAs), such as restraining orders and no-contact orders, are frequently issued by the courts in domestic violence cases in Maine but are often confused. No contact[...]
This article was updated March 6, 2025 Oftentimes what I see in these domestic violence situations is that a husband and wife get in a fight. They love each other[...]
