South Portland, ME OUI Lawyer For A First OUI Arrest

If you’ve recently been arrested for your first OUI in South Portland, Maine, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and uncertain about what lies ahead. That’s completely normal. This is a serious legal matter—one that can have long-term consequences on your driving privileges, career, reputation, and finances.

But the good news is this: you’re not alone. As a dedicated South Portland OUI lawyer, I’ve helped many first-time offenders successfully navigate this process and move forward with their lives.

If you’re facing an OUI charge in South Portland, call 1-888-839-4384 or use our online contact form to schedule a FREE CONSULTATION with an OUI lawyer in South Portland today!

Let’s walk through what you can expect, and more importantly, what you can do after an OUI arrest in South Portland.

Understanding a First OUI Arrest in South Portland

In Maine, an OUI (Operating Under the Influence) charge is the legal equivalent of a DUI.

Maine OUI laws prohibit operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or while under the influence of drugs or alcohol to a degree that impairs your ability to drive safely.

For commercial drivers, the legal limit is even lower, at 0.04%, and for drivers under 21 years of age, Maine enforces a strict zero tolerance law along with its implied consent law.

If this is your first drunk driving offense, you may not know what to expect. The legal system can seem confusing and intimidating, especially if you’ve never been in trouble before.

However, the steps you take immediately after your arrest can greatly affect the outcome of your case.

Consequences of a First OUI in South Portland

A first-time OUI offense in Maine can carry severe penalties, even if no one was injured and you have a clean criminal record. Potential consequences include:

• A fine of at least $500
• A mandatory 150-day license suspension
• Possible jail time (especially if your BAC was 0.15% or higher, or if there was a minor in the vehicle)
• Enrollment in the Driver Education and Evaluation Program (DEEP)
• Installation of an ignition interlock device (if eligible for early reinstatement)

These OUI penalties can impact every aspect of your life—from how you get to work to whether you can keep your job. That’s why it’s crucial to speak with a knowledgeable South Portland OUI defense attorney as soon as possible. Reliable legal advice and guidance can make all the difference for your case.

Where Will Your OUI Case Be Heard in South Portland?

If you’re arrested for an OUI in South Portland, Maine, your case will typically be handled at the Cumberland County Unified Criminal Docket, located in Portland. While the arrest may occur in South Portland, the criminal court proceedings for OUI charges fall under the jurisdiction of the county’s central court system.

Court Information:

Cumberland County Courthouse
205 Newbury Street
Portland, ME 04101
Phone: 207-822-4200

At your arraignment, you’ll be required to enter a plea—guilty, not guilty, or no contest. From there, your case may proceed through various stages, including pre-trial conferences, motions hearings, and potentially a trial.

A South Portland criminal defense lawyer familiar with this court can provide invaluable insight into the local rules, judges, law enforcement, and procedures, helping you prepare a stronger defense strategy.

Being represented by an attorney who regularly practices in this court can make a measurable difference in the outcome of your case. Local knowledge matters—especially when your future is on the line.

Why Hiring a South Portland OUI Lawyer Matters

You might be tempted to plead guilty and hope for leniency. But doing so without first consulting with an experienced attorney can be a costly mistake. A skilled South Portland OUI lawyer will examine every detail of your arrest, including:

• Whether the police officer made a lawful traffic stop
• If field sobriety tests were administered correctly
• Whether your constitutional rights were violated
• If the breathalyzer or blood test was properly calibrated and administered

A first OUI charge doesn’t automatically mean a conviction. In many cases, it’s possible to challenge the evidence, negotiate a reduced charge, or seek alternatives that avoid jail time or long-term license loss. An experienced attorney will explore every possible defense on your behalf.

Having handled numerous OUI cases right here in South Portland, I understand how the local courts operate. I’ve built relationships with area prosecutors and judges, and I can use that familiarity to advocate more effectively on your behalf.

Steps to Take Immediately After an OUI Arrest

Here’s what to do next if you’ve been arrested for your first OUI in South Portland:

1. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: Don’t try to talk your way out of the arrest. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely ask for a lawyer and refrain from making further statements.
2. Document the Incident: As soon as you can, write down everything you remember about the traffic stop, field tests, and arrest. These details could prove important later.
3. Request a BMV Hearing: You only have 10 days to request a hearing with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) to challenge your license suspension. Missing this deadline could result in an automatic 150-day suspension even before your criminal case is resolved.
4. Consult with a South Portland OUI Lawyer: Time is of the essence. The sooner you get an OUI defense attorney, the more options you may have for protecting your driver’s license and your future.

This Doesn’t Have to Define You

An OUI arrest can feel like the end of the world—but it’s not. With the right support and a skilled legal advocate on your side, it can be a turning point. As a South Portland OUI lawyer, my goal is to help you minimize the consequences of this arrest and move forward with your life. Whether it’s your first encounter with the law or simply your first serious criminal charge, you deserve a second chance.

Don’t let a first OUI conviction in South Portland derail your future. Let’s talk about your options, your rights, and the steps we can take to build a strong defense on your behalf.

Call 1-888-839-4384 today for a free consultation to see how an experienced OUI attorney in South Portland can help protect your rights!