Question 1

What is the statute of limitations for criminal defense in Maine?

Accepted Answer

Murder and criminal homicide have no statute of limitations. Class A, B, and C crimes (felonies) must be prosecuted within 6 years. Class D and E crimes (misdemeanors) must be prosecuted within 3 years. (17-A M.R.S. § 8)

Question 2

What is Maine's law on crime classification and sentencing?

Accepted Answer

Maine classifies crimes by class: Class A felonies carry up to 30 years; Class B up to 10 years; Class C up to 5 years; Class D misdemeanors up to 364 days and $2,000 fine; Class E misdemeanors up to 6 months and $1,000 fine. (17-A M.R.S. § 1604)

Question 3

What is Maine's law on record sealing (class e convictions)?

Accepted Answer

Maine allows sealing of Class E conviction records (not expungement) if the person was 18–27 at the time of the offense, 4 years have passed since completing the sentence, and there have been no subsequent convictions. Sexual assault convictions are excluded. (15 M.R.S. § 2263)

Question 4

What is Maine's law on oui (operating under the influence)?

Accepted Answer

A first OUI offense is a Class D crime with a minimum $500 fine, 150-day license suspension, and potential jail time (48 hours mandatory if BAC is .15% or higher). A third offense within 10 years is a Class C felony with up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. (29-A M.R.S. § 2411)

Question 5

What is Maine's law on right to counsel?

Accepted Answer

A person charged with a crime punishable by imprisonment is entitled to be represented by an attorney. If the person cannot afford one, the court will appoint counsel. (15 M.R.S. § 810)

Criminal Defense Laws in Maine.

Statute of Limitations

Key Maine Statutes

Official Sources

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