Southern Maine Criminal Lawyer BlogMost Criminal Defense Attorneys in Maine Offer Initial Consultations
Many criminal defense attorneys in Maine charge a fee for initial consultations. Webb Law Firm does not. We want to give you an immediate overview of your case without cost. In some cases – such as OUI/DUI defense – drivers need urgent help. Maine’s strict implied consent laws require action within days of an arrest. About 45% of our clients each year need help with OUI charges. Your arresting officer likely used the acronym O-U-I, which stands for operating under the influence. We also handle marijuana charges given recent changes to Maine’s weed laws.
Who Are the Criminal Defense Attorneys at Webb Law Firm?
Webb Law Firm is built around four criminal defense attorneys who focus entirely on defending people accused of crimes in Maine. Our practice covers serious charges including OUI/DUI, assault, domestic violence, drug crimes, theft, sex offenses, and weapons charges. We do not handle civil litigation. Every case we take is a criminal case.
Our founding partner, John S. Webb, is known nationally for his lectures on drunk driving defense. He has decades of courtroom experience across many charge types. His trial work spans OUI jury trials, felony drug cases, and violent crime defense. The entire team appears regularly in courts across Maine, including Portland, Saco, Augusta, Auburn, Brunswick, and Waterville. When you contact Webb Law Firm, you reach attorneys who handle serious criminal matters every day.
Free Criminal Defense Consultations Across Maine
Webb Law Firm offers free consultations for anyone facing criminal charges in Maine. You can meet with one of our attorneys in person or over the phone. There is no fee and no obligation. During this first meeting, we review the facts of your case. We explain the charges and possible penalties. We outline a defense strategy.
Time matters in criminal cases. If you were arrested for OUI, Maine’s implied consent law gives you only 10 days to request a BMV administrative hearing. This hearing can help you fight your license suspension. Drug charges, assault accusations, and other serious offenses also benefit from early attorney involvement. Talking to police before consulting an attorney can harm your defense.
Whether your case is in Augusta, Auburn, Portland, Brunswick, or any other Maine court, we are available to discuss your situation promptly. Call 207-283-6400 to schedule your free consultation.
Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Portland, Maine
A criminal defense attorney plays an important role in the legal system. Finding a lawyer who knows Maine’s laws is crucial. Here are some tips to help you choose the right defense attorney.
Experience with OUI Cases: Look for lawyers who have successfully handled OUI cases. They should understand Maine’s laws in detail. A lawyer’s past successes show their skills. These skills help them handle similar cases and prepare them for unique challenges.
Reputation and Credentials: Check the reputation of potential attorneys. Read client reviews about the attorneys you are considering. Verify their status with local bar associations. Client testimonials show how good an attorney is. They also show how well the attorney communicates and supports clients during legal matters.
Accessibility and Communication: Pick an attorney who is easy to reach and communicates clearly about your case. Regular updates and open communication are important for a strong working relationship with your lawyer. This ensures you stay informed at every step.
Why Choose Our Criminal Defense Attorneys Over Other Firms
When you search for a “criminal defense attorney near me,” you see a long list of lawyers who all claim to fight for you. The reality is that not every lawyer handles serious criminal cases every day. Not every firm invests the time and training needed to challenge police and prosecutors effectively.
At Webb Law Firm, criminal defense is a core focus. It is not a side practice. Our attorneys handle OUI, drug charges, assault, domestic violence, theft, and other serious offenses in Maine courts every week. We prepare every case with the expectation that we may need to fight in court, not just accept the first plea offer.
How Webb Law Firm Compares
Use this comparison to see how our approach stacks up against many other options you might find when you search for “criminal defense attorneys near me”:
| Factor | Webb Law Firm | Many Other Options |
|---|---|---|
| Primary focus | Criminal defense and OUI cases in Maine courts | Mixed practice with civil or injury cases |
| Experience | 30+ years of combined criminal defense experience | May include lawyers who rarely try criminal cases |
| Training | Advanced training in OUI, field sobriety tests, and evidence challenges | Basic continuing legal education only |
| Strategy | Early, detailed review of reports, videos, and test results; aggressive motions when warranted | Heavy reliance on quick plea deals |
| Communication | Direct access to your attorney and clear updates | Communication filtered through layers of staff |
| Availability | Free consultation and prompt response when you call | Slower response times and limited availability |
No lawyer can promise a result. What Webb Law Firm can promise is that we take your case seriously. We prepare thoroughly. We give you honest advice about your options at every step.
Types of Criminal Charges We Handle
If you are looking for criminal defense lawyers near me, you probably want to know whether your specific charge is something the firm sees regularly. Webb Law Firm handles a wide range of felony and misdemeanor cases throughout Maine.
OUI and Serious Traffic Offenses
A large part of our practice involves OUI and serious driving offenses, including:
- OUI involving alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs
- Refusal to submit to a test
- Criminal speeding and driving to endanger
- Reckless conduct and serious injury crashes
OUI cases move fast and often involve both a court case and a license suspension through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. We review traffic stops, field sobriety tests, breath tests, and blood tests carefully. We challenge them when the facts support it.
Drug Possession and Drug Trafficking
We defend people charged with:
- Possession of controlled substances
- Trafficking and aggravated trafficking
- Prescription drug offenses
- Possession with intent to distribute
Drug cases usually turn on searches, warrants, vehicle stops, and how officers handled your statements. We focus on the legality of the stop and search. We examine chain of custody and lab issues that can weaken the prosecution’s case.
Maine law treats drug trafficking as a serious felony. The penalty depends on the drug type and quantity involved. Aggravated trafficking applies to large-scale operations involving dangerous drugs like fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine. Convictions for aggravated trafficking carry mandatory minimum sentences that judges cannot waive.
Some Maine drug cases are prosecuted in federal court rather than state court. Cases involving large quantities, interstate distribution networks, or federal task force investigations often end up before a federal judge. Federal drug sentences tend to be harsher. Mandatory minimums are difficult to avoid. Our attorneys understand the differences between state and federal drug prosecution. We can advise you on what to expect based on your situation.
Webb Law Firm handles drug cases across the state. We handle drug possession and trafficking charges in Kennebec County courts. If you need an Augusta County drug lawyer who understands how local prosecutors handle these cases, our team has the experience to build a strong defense. We challenge search warrants. We question traffic stop procedures. We examine lab evidence for errors. Clients looking for the best drug attorneys in Maine trust us because we focus on details that matter.
Assault, Domestic Violence, and Protection Orders
Assault and domestic violence charges carry serious consequences. These include jail time, loss of firearm rights, and long-term impact on jobs and relationships. Webb Law Firm handles:
- Domestic violence assault
- Simple and aggravated assault
- Violations of protection from abuse or protection from harassment orders
These cases often depend on credibility, 911 recordings, injuries, and prior history. We gather all available evidence. We push back when the allegations do not match the facts.
Maine law draws a clear line between simple assault and aggravated assault. Simple assault is a Class D misdemeanor. A conviction carries up to 364 days in jail and fines up to $2,000. Aggravated assault is a Class B felony. A conviction can mean up to 10 years in prison. The difference often comes down to the severity of injuries or whether a weapon was involved.
If you get charged with assault, the process typically begins with an arrest or a summons to appear in court. At your arraignment, the judge reads the charges and sets conditions of release. Those conditions may include a no-contact order with the alleged victim, which you must follow strictly. From there, your attorney reviews the discovery – police reports, witness statements, 911 recordings, and any available video. The case then moves toward either a negotiated resolution or trial.
Our attorneys challenge assault charges by examining the full picture. We review 911 calls for inconsistencies. We question witness credibility. We investigate self-defense claims. We look at the actual injuries – or lack of injuries – in the case. In our experience handling assault and domestic violence cases across Maine courts, we have seen how quickly these situations are misunderstood. If you need an assault attorney or simple assault lawyers, Webb Law Firm is ready to review your case and fight for you.
Theft, Burglary, and Property Crimes
If you face a theft-related charge, you risk “dishonesty” labels that follow you for years. We represent clients charged with:
- Shoplifting and theft
- Burglary and criminal trespass
- Robbery and related violent theft offenses
- Criminal mischief and property damage
We look at surveillance footage, witness statements, and police reports to expose weaknesses. We pursue outcomes that protect your record when possible.
Maine law classifies theft based on the value of the property involved. Theft of property valued over $1,000 is a Class C felony. This carries up to five years in prison. Theft of property under $1,000 is generally a Class E misdemeanor with lighter penalties. But even a misdemeanor theft conviction creates a permanent record that employers and landlords can see.
Receiving stolen property is a separate offense. You can face this charge even if you did not steal the property yourself. The prosecution must prove you knew or believed the property was stolen. Our theft defense attorneys review the evidence carefully. We challenge that element when the facts support it. If you are facing theft charges in Maine, Webb Law Firm works to protect your record and your future.
Sex Crimes and Sensitive Allegations
Sex crime accusations bring harsh penalties and long-term registration requirements. These cases demand discretion, careful investigation, and a strong defense strategy from the start. Webb Law Firm handles serious sex offense allegations. We work to challenge unreliable statements, flawed investigations, and problematic forensic evidence.
Weapons Charges, Probation Violations, and Warrants
We also represent clients charged with:
- Illegal possession of firearms or other weapons
- Reckless conduct with a dangerous weapon
- Violations of probation or conditions of release
- Bench warrants and failure-to-appear issues
We look at the full picture, including any underlying cases. This lets us address everything in a coordinated way rather than piece by piece.
OUI and DUI Defense in Augusta and Auburn
Maine calls its drunk driving offense “Operating Under the Influence” or OUI. If you are searching for a DUI lawyer in Augusta or Auburn, you should know that OUI and DUI refer to the same offense. Regardless of which term you use, Webb Law Firm defends drivers facing these charges in both cities.
In Augusta, OUI cases are heard in Kennebec County courts. A DUI lawyer in Augusta must understand the local BMV hearing process. You have only 10 days from your arrest to request a hearing to protect your license. Our attorneys challenge breath test results. We question field sobriety test administration. We review the traffic stop itself for constitutional violations. We have handled OUI cases in Augusta District Court where improperly calibrated testing equipment or poorly documented procedures gave us leverage to fight the charges effectively.
In Auburn, OUI cases go through Androscoggin County courts. As an Auburn DUI attorney, we appear regularly in Auburn District Court. We understand how local prosecutors handle first-offense and repeat OUI cases. We review every detail. We look at the reason the officer pulled you over. We examine the way field sobriety tests were demonstrated and scored. An Auburn driver facing OUI charges needs an attorney who knows these courts. You need someone prepared to push back on weak evidence.
Whether your OUI stop happened on the Maine Turnpike near Auburn or on a back road in Kennebec County, the stakes are the same. A conviction under OUI statute brings license suspension, fines, possible jail time, and a criminal record. Early legal help gives you the best chance to challenge the charges.
Criminal Defense Attorneys Serving Augusta, Auburn, and All of Maine
Webb Law Firm represents clients from Portland to Augusta to Auburn and everywhere in between. Our four attorneys appear in courthouses across southern and central Maine. We bring the same level of preparation to every case regardless of location.
Criminal Defense in Augusta and Kennebec County
Webb Law Firm serves as a criminal attorney in Augusta for clients facing the full range of criminal charges. Our attorneys appear regularly at the Kennebec County courthouse. We handle OUI, drug offenses, assault, domestic violence, and other serious matters. Augusta cases involve Kennebec County prosecutors. Our familiarity with how these prosecutors approach cases – from charging decisions to plea negotiations – benefits our clients at every stage.
If you need criminal lawyers in the Augusta area, you want someone who knows local court procedures. You need someone with a track record of challenging evidence in this jurisdiction. Webb Law Firm has that experience. We have defended clients against OUI charges in Augusta where the arresting officer failed to follow proper field sobriety test protocols. We have fought drug possession cases where the search was conducted without a valid warrant. That kind of local courtroom experience matters when your freedom, license, and record are on the line.
OUI and Criminal Defense in Auburn and Androscoggin County
Webb Law Firm also serves clients in Auburn and throughout Androscoggin County. The Androscoggin County courthouse in Auburn handles a high volume of OUI, drug, and assault cases. Our attorneys appear there regularly. We understand the local procedures, the prosecutors’ tendencies, and the practical realities of defending cases in this court.
Drivers arrested for OUI in Auburn face the same aggressive prosecution and BMV consequences as anywhere in Maine. We challenge every aspect of the case. We examine the initial stop, the officer’s observations, the field sobriety tests, and any chemical test results. Our experience in Auburn District Court has included cases where flawed breathalyzer maintenance records and improperly administered standardized field sobriety tests provided grounds for successful defense motions.
Drug Charges in the Augusta Area
Drug trafficking and possession cases in Kennebec County carry severe penalties. Aggravated trafficking charges are especially serious. Fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine cases in the Augusta area are prosecuted aggressively. Mandatory minimum sentences leave little room for error. Our attorneys review every element of the state’s case. We examine the traffic stop or search that led to the arrest. We review the warrant application, the chain of custody for drug evidence, and the lab analysis. When police cut corners, we file motions to suppress the evidence. We fight to protect our clients’ rights.
Webb Law Firm also represents clients in these additional courts and communities across Maine:
- Portland and surrounding communities in Cumberland County
- Saco, Biddeford, and other York County towns
- Brunswick and nearby coastal communities
- Waterville in central Maine
- Ellsworth and surrounding areas
If your case is in one of these courts, you will work with an attorney who understands how that courthouse operates. We know what strategies tend to work best in that location.
Meet Our Maine Criminal Defense Attorneys
When you hire Webb Law Firm, you are hiring a team of four attorneys who dedicate their entire practice to criminal defense. With more than 30 years of combined experience, our lawyers handle OUI/DUI, drug crimes, assault, domestic violence, theft, sex offenses, weapons charges, and probation violations in courts across Maine. No one on our team splits time with civil litigation, personal injury, or family law. Criminal defense is all we do.
John S. Webb, our founding partner, brings decades of trial experience to every case. He is recognized nationally as a lecturer on OUI defense. He has been invited to train other attorneys on how to challenge field sobriety tests, breath testing procedures, and impaired driving evidence. His courtroom work extends well beyond OUI. He has tried assault cases, drug trafficking matters, and serious felonies across Maine.
All four attorneys appear regularly in courts throughout the state, including Kennebec County in Augusta, Androscoggin County in Auburn, Cumberland County in Portland, and York County in Saco. Each member of the team brings advanced training in evidence challenges, criminal procedure, and trial advocacy. When you call Webb Law Firm, you work directly with the attorney handling your case – not a paralegal or office assistant.
Real-World Results and Experience
No two criminal cases are the same. No responsible attorney can promise a specific outcome. However, our track record shows the kind of preparation and defense work our clients can expect.
In a Kennebec County OUI case, our defense team discovered that the arresting officer had failed to follow standardized field sobriety test protocols during the roadside stop. We filed a motion to suppress the test results. This weakened the prosecution’s case and led to a favorable resolution for our client.
A client came to us in Androscoggin County facing aggravated assault charges after an altercation that resulted in serious injuries. After reviewing the 911 recordings, witness statements, and medical records, our attorneys built a self-defense argument. This challenged the prosecution’s version of events. The charges were reduced after aggressive investigation and motion practice.
In a drug trafficking case in southern Maine, officers conducted a vehicle search that we believed violated our client’s constitutional rights. We challenged the legality of the search. We filed a motion to suppress the evidence, and the court agreed. Without the physical evidence, the prosecution’s case fell apart.
We represented a client in Auburn District Court who was charged with a first-offense OUI after a traffic stop on a holiday weekend. Our review of the breath test machine’s calibration records revealed maintenance issues. We used those records to challenge the reliability of the BAC results.
Every case is different, and past results do not guarantee future outcomes. These examples illustrate the types of cases our attorneys handle regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Maine
What should I do right after an arrest?
Stay calm and do not argue with officers on the street or at the station. Politely state that you want a lawyer and that you will not answer questions until you speak with one. Do not discuss the case on recorded jail phones, text messages, or social media. Write down everything you remember about the stop, conversation, and arrest. Call 207-283-6400 as soon as possible to schedule a consultation with Webb Law Firm. The sooner you involve a criminal defense attorney, the more options you usually have.
How long does a criminal case in Maine usually take?
The timeline depends on several factors. These include the type of charge (misdemeanor vs. felony), the court and county where your case is pending, whether your case resolves through negotiation or goes to trial, and how much evidence we need to review and investigate. Some misdemeanors resolve in a few months. Felony cases, especially those involving serious injury or complex evidence, often take longer. At your consultation, Webb Law Firm will walk you through a realistic timeline based on your specific charges.
What does a criminal defense attorney actually do?
A criminal defense attorney performs several key functions. We explain the charges, penalties, and collateral consequences in plain language. We review police reports, videos, and test results in detail. We investigate your side of the story and interview witnesses. We file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or statements. We negotiate with prosecutors and advise you on plea offers. We represent you at hearings and trial when you choose to contest the charges. You should feel that your lawyer is both your guide and your shield throughout the process.
Do I really need a local criminal defense lawyer near me?
Criminal cases are local. Judges, prosecutors, and procedures vary from court to court. A lawyer who regularly appears in Portland, Saco, Brunswick, Augusta, Waterville, Ellsworth, and other Maine courts understands how those courts operate. That lawyer knows what strategies make the most sense there. That local experience can matter when your freedom, license, and record are on the line.
How much does it cost to hire a criminal defense attorney?
Costs vary based on the seriousness of the charge, the stage of the case, and how much work the defense will require. Webb Law Firm offers a free consultation. You can learn what you are facing, what options you have, and what hiring a criminal defense attorney will look like before you make a decision.
What happens if you get charged with assault in Maine?
After an assault charge, you will either be arrested or receive a summons to appear in court. At your arraignment, the judge reads the charges. The judge sets bail or release conditions and may issue a no-contact order with the alleged victim. Your attorney then reviews the discovery – police reports, witness statements, and any available recordings. From there, your case moves toward plea negotiations or trial.
The consequences depend on the charge. Simple assault is a Class D misdemeanor carrying up to 364 days in jail. Aggravated assault is a Class B felony with up to 10 years in prison. Either conviction can result in fines, loss of firearm rights, and a permanent criminal record. The sooner you involve a criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of building a strong defense. Call Webb Law Firm at 207-283-6400 for a free consultation.
Can I get a DUI charge reduced or dismissed in Maine?
OUI charges in Maine can sometimes be challenged based on problems with the traffic stop. Issues with field sobriety test administration, breath test calibration, or blood draw procedures can weaken the prosecution’s case. If officers violated your rights or failed to follow proper protocols, the court may suppress key evidence. Without that evidence, the prosecution’s case may weaken or collapse.
Outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case. Your prior record, BAC level, and the circumstances of the stop all play a role in whether a reduction or dismissal is realistic. Contact Webb Law Firm at 207-283-6400 for a free case evaluation to discuss your OUI situation.
Does Webb Law Firm handle federal drug cases?
Webb Law Firm handles drug cases including serious state-level trafficking charges under Maine law. Some drug cases are prosecuted in federal court rather than state court. This typically happens when large quantities are involved, the investigation crosses state lines, or a federal task force led the arrest.
Federal drug cases carry mandatory minimum sentences. These are often more severe than state penalties. Early attorney involvement is critical in these situations. If you believe your case may involve federal charges, call 207-283-6400 to discuss your situation during a free consultation.
Talk to a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Maine Today
If you are facing criminal charges in Maine, the decisions you make now can affect the rest of your life. Whether the charge is OUI/DUI, assault, drug possession, trafficking, theft, domestic violence, or any other criminal offense, you need an attorney who is prepared to fight for you.
Webb Law Firm represents clients in Portland, Saco, Augusta, Auburn, Brunswick, Waterville, Ellsworth, and courts across southern and central Maine. Our four attorneys focus exclusively on criminal defense. We bring more than 30 years of combined experience to every case.
Your consultation is free – no obligation, no pressure. We are available by phone or in person. Call 207-283-6400 now to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney and start building your defense today.