If you or a loved one have been arrested in Maine, call Bangor Criminal Defense Attorney Richard Hartley.
Communicate in confidence – Receive clear answers
207-941-0999.
Communicate in confidence – Receive clear answers
207-941-0999.
Bangor Maine Criminal Defense Attorney
The most important action you can take after an arrest in Maine is to hire a criminal defense lawyer with the right kind of experience who you can trust to protect your interests.
Like every person, each case is unique and requires a thorough, individual analysis. As a criminal defense specialist, I offer that comprehensive service to each client I represent.
OUI Lawyer Maine
One area I focus on is defending OUI cases in Maine. Also called DUI or DWI, OUI is defined under Maine law as operating any motor vehicle under the influence of any intoxicant/s. An intoxicant is alcohol, an illegal drug, a legally prescribed drug or even a chemical vapor.
OUI vs DUI
States define impaired driving differently. When someone says “I got a DUI in Maine,” they may be an out-of-state defendant whose home state classifies the offense as “driving under the influence,” or DUI.
Common terms for OUI offenses are:
- DUI – Driving Under the Influence (of alcohol/intoxicants).
- DWI – Driving While Intoxicated.
- OVI – Operating a Vehicle Impaired.
- OWI – Operating While Intoxicated.
- OUI – Operating Under the Influence (of alcohol/intoxicants).
- Impaired Driving.
- Drunk Driving.
In Maine, OUI covers a broad range of actions that the state may consider a violation under its OUI laws. All OUI offenses have serious consequences. My goal is to give you experienced representation that explores every option and solution, allowing you to receive the best possible outcome.
For a free initial consultation about defending against your OUI – DUI charges, call or contact my office today.
Misdemeanors
In Maine, Class D and Class E are misdemeanor crimes. The order in severity level runs from A to E where Class A is the highest or most severe and Class E is the least severe level. Severity level is most important during a sentencing hearing.
Common examples of misdemeanor charges include:
- OUI First offense
- OUI Second offense
- Many Traffic Offenses
- Domestic Assault
- Disorderly Conduct
- Theft offenses
FELONIES
Class A, Class B and Class C charges are felony offenses in Maine. These offenses have the highest severity level under the penal code.
Common examples of felony charges in Maine include many sex offenses and drug charges. Other cases, such as OUI and Operating after Revocation (OAR), can be elevated to felony status by a prior history of similar convictions.
Felony prosecutions normally originate from a Grand Jury. The Grand Jury hands down indictments which allow the criminal process to begin.
The Criminal Process
The state has nearly complete discretion at the start of a criminal prosecution as to what charges are filed.
The filing of a charge, however, is just the start of the criminal process. An accused may then look to a criminal attorney in Maine to defend them throughout this process.
Working with a local defense lawyer who knows the criminal justice system inside and out in the jurisdiction where you face charges is crucial to your case results. You have come to the right place. Fill out our contact form on this page or call us today to arrange a free initial consultation with me.
Courts I frequent are located in Bangor, Ellsworth, Belfast, Skowhegan, Dover-Foxcroft, Millinocket, Machias, and throughout Central, Eastern and Northern Maine. I also regularly handle cases from towns such as Orono and Bar Harbor.
I represent residents of central, eastern, and northern Maine, out-of-state defendants and college students. I aggressively defend their interests against state prosecution. Visit the links below for more information.
Motor Vehicle Violations – including OAR / OAS.
Drug Crimes – including OUI of Drugs.
Disorderly Conduct & Criminal Mischief
CDL OUI