Top DUI & OUI Lawyers in Maine

In the state of Maine, OUI (Operating Under the Influence) is a serious offense that can lead to severe consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. It is essential to understand the laws and penalties surrounding OUI charges in Maine. In this article, we will explore the rate of OUI arrests in Maine over the past few years and how getting a Maine OUI lawyer can help you beat an OUI charge.

OUI Arrest Rates in Maine

According to the Maine Department of Public Safety, there were 5,451 OUI arrests in Maine in 2019. This marks a slight decrease from the 5,811 OUI arrests made in 2018. The decrease in OUI arrests is a positive trend, but it is still important to understand the potential consequences of an OUI charge.

Penalties for OUI in Maine

The penalties for an OUI in Maine can be severe, depending on the circumstances of the case. The following is a general overview of the penalties for OUI in Maine:

First Offense:

• A fine of up to $500
• License suspension for 150 days
• Possible jail time of up to 364 days
• Mandatory completion of an alcohol education program

Second Offense (within 10 years of the first offense):

• A fine of up to $2,000
• License suspension for three years
• Mandatory jail time of at least seven days, up to 364 days
• Mandatory completion of an alcohol education program

Third Offense (within 10 years of the first offense):

• A fine of up to $5,000
• License revocation for six years
• Mandatory jail time of at least 30 days, up to 364 days
• Mandatory completion of an alcohol education program

Fourth and Subsequent Offenses:

• A felony charge, punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000
• License revocation for life
• Mandatory jail time of at least six months, up to five years
• Mandatory completion of an alcohol education program

It is important to note that these penalties are a general overview and that the specific penalties for OUI in Maine may vary depending on the circumstances of the case.

How a Maine OUI Lawyer Can Help You Beat an OUI Charge

If you have been charged with an OUI in Maine, it is essential to seek the assistance of an experienced Maine OUI lawyer. An experienced Maine OUI lawyer can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need to help you beat your OUI charge.

One of the main ways that a Maine OUI lawyer can help you beat an OUI charge is by challenging the evidence against you. This may include challenging the results of field sobriety tests, challenging the validity of a breathalyzer or blood test, or arguing that the police did not have probable cause to stop you in the first place.

Another way that a Maine OUI lawyer can help you beat an OUI charge is by negotiating with the prosecutor. An experienced OUI lawyer may be able to negotiate a plea bargain that reduces your charges or minimizes your penalties. This may include negotiating for a reduced fine, a shorter license suspension or revocation, or a reduced jail sentence.

A Maine OUI lawyer can also help you prepare a strong defense strategy for trial. They can investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to support your case. Additionally, an experienced OUI lawyer can present your case in court and argue on your behalf.

It is important to remember that time is of the essence when it comes to OUI charges in Maine. If you have been charged with an OUI, you only have 10 days from the date of your arrest to request an administrative hearing to contest your license suspension. It is crucial to contact a Maine OUI lawyer as soon as possible after your arrest to protect your driving privileges.