The State of Maine’s system for addressing Domestic Violence charges can seem particularly unfair, and it can yield severe consequences.
Penalties for Domestic Violence
Standard Penalties
Misdemeanor for a 1st Offense, although prosecutors may use prior convictions to justify a felony charge
Jail time
Probation
Supervision Measures like Domestic Violence Court and Certified Batterers Intervention classes
In addition, if you violate your bail conditions you can be charged with a felony, which carries life-long consequences for employment, firearm possession, and other future legal implications.
What really happened matters.
Severe Domestic Violence convictions can be handed down even when the truth of the matter is not made known. Things like special circumstances, appearances, and hearsay can all greatly impact a case. It takes a focused effort by an experienced criminal defense lawyer to investigate what really happened and put on a strong defense — to make sure you’re treated as fairly as possible.