Rockland Criminal Defense Lawyers

You may feel panicky and stressed if you’ve been arrested and charged with a crime. You’re worried about your future. Maine imposes heavy penalties if you’re convicted of a criminal offense. In addition, there’s a significant crackdown on crime in Rockland, Maine, so you need an aggressive criminal defense immediately to maintain your freedom. 

Rockland Criminal Defense Lawyers care about your freedom. Our attorneys can give you peace of mind and defend your rights. Please use our contact us form to get in touch with us now. 

Whatever The Criminal Allegation in Rockland, We Can Help

Our criminal defense lawyers can help you if you’re faced with the following criminal charges: 

• Homicide
• Sexual crimes
• OUI
• Drug crimes
• Domestic violence
• Federal exotic animal offenses
• DHHS investigations
• Gross sexual assault
• Sexual abuse in family law cases
• White collar crimes

The Maine Criminal Process

It’s easier to deal with serious criminal charges if you know what you’re up against. The Maine criminal process usually features these steps: 

• Investigation and pre-arrest phase: Before you are arrested, law enforcement may do an investigation to look for probable cause and evidence to arrest you. 
• Arrest: Police can get a warrant to arrest you. Or, they can arrest you without a warrant if there is probable cause. 
• Arraignment: The judge will conduct a hearing. Here you will learn about the charges against you. Then, your Rockland criminal defense lawyer will enter a plea on your behalf. 
• Negotiations: Your attorney may negotiate with the state prosecutor to reduce the charges.
• Trial: If the case cannot be resolved, it goes to trial. The judge and jury will decide if you are guilty or innocent. 
• Sentencing: If the jury finds you guilty, the judge will set up a sentencing hearing. 
• Appeals: You can ask for an appeal with a higher Maine court if you think there were legal mistakes that damaged your case. 

The Maine criminal process can be scary. That’s the reason it’s so vital to have a skilled Rockland criminal defense attorney safeguarding your rights. 

Maine Criminal Defense Frequently Asked Questions

Below are common questions about Maine criminal law and defense: 

Can the public see my criminal record in Maine? 

Yes. Maine does not allow criminal records to be sealed. It doesn’t matter if the crime was a misdemeanor or felony. Therefore, the public can access your criminal history. 

Can I represent myself in court? 

Yes, but you never should. Never try to defend yourself against criminal charges in Maine. A criminal defense attorney is more knowledgeable about the law and the courts. Leave your defense in the hands of an experienced professional. 

Can’t I just plead guilty? 

Even if you’re guilty, the state must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. So if you plead guilty at the arraignment, you missed a chance to negotiate with the prosecutor. Or your attorney could discover evidence that proves your innocence. 

A guilty plea will convict you immediately, so it’s often best to plead not guilty at the arraignment and review your case with your lawyer. 

What should I do if there is a warrant for my arrest in Maine? 

Call your Rockland criminal defense lawyer immediately. The last thing you need is to be in your home with family or at work and get arrested. You and your family don’t need this stress and embarrassment, so get in touch with your lawyer if you have an outstanding warrant. 

Contact Us Today To Speak With A Rockland Criminal Defense Lawyer

Our attorneys at STEVE SMITH Trial Lawyers can assist if you are accused of a crime in Rockland. We’ll leap to your defense and provide you with the support you need. Please complete our online contact form to get in touch with us today.