Maine DWI/DUI Lawyer
If you live in Maine, were vacationing or visiting there, conducting business, or just passing through on your way to another destination and were stopped and issued a DUI (driving under the influence), you need to find and hire a Maine lawyer immediately. A licensed lawyer in Maine, who is knowledgeable of the Maine DUI laws, can help you navigate your way through the legal policies and procedures that will follow.
A DWI (driving while intoxicated) or DUI charge is a serious offense. Penalties have become harsher over the years and people recognize the importance of trying to reduce and eliminate DWI and DUI incidents in this country. The consequences of a conviction can be damaging to your future record because, if convicted, there will be a permanent mark on a criminal record.
In Maine, the DUI is known as an OUI (Operating Under the Influence). This variation in terminology is just another reason why you need an experienced Maine lawyer assisting in your defense against this charge.
You need to file a challenge, also known as an appeal, to your DUI charge immediately. You only have 10 days to file the appeal or you will automatically lose your driver’s license without the benefit of a hearing.
Penalties
First Offense
- Suspension of your driver’s license for 90 days
- A monetary fine ranging from $500 to $2,000
- Jail time of up to 364 days (there is no minimum)
A first offense in the State of Maine is one which is the first in a 10-year timeframe (10 years is what they call the “look back” period in the State of Maine).
First Offense with Aggravating Circumstances Engage Stiffer Penalties
- Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels over 0.15
- A minor in the vehicle at the time of the incident
- Speeding – over 30 mph of the posted speed limit
- Trying to make an escape from pursuing police officer
- Refusing to take the BAC test
- Being, yourself, a minor and underage to operate a motor vehicle
Repeat Offenders
The State of Maine recognizes its responsibility to be especially tough on repeat offenders.
Second Offense consequences
- Jail time, at least 7 days
- Fines up to $700
- Driver’s license suspension for 18 months
Third Offense consequences
- Jail time, minimum 30 days, possible up to 5 years
- Fines ranging between $1,100 and $5,000
- Driver’s license suspension for 4 years
Also, as a matter of course, a Maine OUI specifies that an education requirement is necessary when aggravating factors occur. Two programs in the State of Maine are:
- Driver Education Evaluation Program
- Weekend Intervention Program
At these programs, you will be evaluated and treatment will be recommended, if applicable.
Also remember that when, and if, you get your driver’s license returned to you, your vehicle insurance premiums are almost guaranteed to increase. In the State of Maine, you will also have to obtain an SR-22 insurance policy for three years and/or you will have to use an ignition interlock device on your vehicle. An ignition interlock device is attached to your steering wheel, and you will have to breathe into it to assure sobriety or else your vehicle will be unable to start.
When you hire a Maine lawyer to help in your defense, he or she will take a close look at all the paperwork associated with your OUI case. Your knowledgeable Maine lawyer will look for possible ways to win your OUI case or get the charge lessened. Some of the items your Maine lawyer could question include:
- Challenge the reason the police officer stopped your vehicle in the first place. A police officer cannot randomly stop a vehicle without a reasonable cause.
- Challenge the validity of any blood, breath, or urine tests taken at the scene. Were they administered by someone who was qualified and trained to oversee the test and their results?
- Challenge the equipment itself. Has it been properly maintained? When was the equipment last serviced?
Info™ State DUI DWI Information: