A Complete List of Criminal Charges in Maine: Crimes, Classes, and Sentences

How Maine Classifies Criminal Charges

Maine organizes every criminal offense into a letter-class system that determines how severe the penalties can be. The classification framework is essential to understanding criminal charges in Maine. Maine groups crimes into five classes – Class A through Class E – plus civil violations that carry fines but no jail time. Class A is the most serious criminal classification. Class E is the least serious.

Unlike most states, Maine does not use the terms “felony” and “misdemeanor” in its criminal statutes. Instead, the classification system assigns each offense a letter class. In practice, Classes A, B, and C are commonly understood as felony-level offenses. These carry potential state prison sentences. Classes D and E function as misdemeanors. Penalties may include county jail time, fines, or both.

This distinction matters because the class of your charge shapes every aspect of your case. It determines where your case is heard. It affects what penalties you face. It influences how a conviction affects your future. The sections below break down the most common charges in each category.

List of Felony Charges in Maine

Felony-level offenses in Maine carry the heaviest consequences. Classes A, B, and C crimes can result in years of state prison time. They bring thousands of dollars in fines and lasting damage to your personal and professional life. Below is a categorized list of crimes and sentences that Maine courts handle most frequently at the felony level.

Violent Crimes

• Murder (Class A / special classification) – The most serious charge in Maine. Murder carries a sentence of 25 years to life in prison.
• Manslaughter (Class A) – Causing another person’s death without the premeditation required for murder. Penalties may include up to 30 years in prison.
• Aggravated Assault (Class B) – Intentionally or knowingly causing serious bodily injury. This includes using a dangerous weapon to cause injury. The offense is defined under aggravated assault.
• Robbery (Class A or B) – Taking property from another person through force or threat of force. Robbery with a dangerous weapon is a Class A crime.
• Gross Sexual Assault (Class A or B) – Maine’s most serious sexual offense. Convictions often carry mandatory minimum sentences.

Drug Crimes

• Aggravated Trafficking (Class A or B) – Selling or distributing large quantities of scheduled drugs. The class level depends on the drug type and quantity involved.
• Drug Manufacturing (Class B or C) – Operating a drug lab or growing marijuana beyond legal limits.
• Unlawful Trafficking in Scheduled Drugs (Class B or C) – Selling controlled substances in smaller quantities than required for the aggravated charge.

Property Crimes

• Arson (Class A or B) – Intentionally setting fire to a structure. Arson that endangers human life is a Class A crime.
• Burglary (Class B or C) – Entering or remaining in a structure with the intent to commit a crime inside. This offense is governed by burglary.
• Theft by Unauthorized Taking (Class B or C) – Stealing property valued above certain thresholds. Theft of property worth more than $10,000 is a Class B crime.

Other Serious Offenses

• Kidnapping (Class A) – Restraining another person with intent to hold them for ransom. This includes using them as a shield or causing serious harm.
• Elevated OUI Offenses (Class B or C) – A third or subsequent OUI conviction can be charged as a felony. An OUI causing serious bodily injury can also be charged as a felony.

Felony Sentences by Class

Maine’s sentencing ranges for felony-level crimes are established by law. Here is what each class carries:

• Class A – Up to 30 years in state prison and up to $50,000 in fines
• Class B – Up to 10 years in state prison and up to $20,000 in fines
• Class C – Up to 5 years in state prison and up to $5,000 in fines

Certain crimes carry mandatory minimum sentences that judges cannot waive. Gross sexual assault convictions often require a minimum period of incarceration. Some drug trafficking offenses also carry mandatory minimums based on the type and quantity of drugs involved.

Actual sentences depend on several factors. Judges consider criminal history. They weigh the severity of harm caused. They evaluate aggravating and mitigating circumstances. They consider the terms of any plea agreement. In our experience handling federal and state criminal defense cases across Maine’s superior courts, prosecutors weigh these factors heavily during plea negotiations.

List of Misdemeanor Charges in Maine

Classes D and E cover the offenses most people think of as misdemeanors. These charges are less severe than felonies. Still, they carry real consequences – including jail time and a permanent criminal record.

Assault and Domestic Offenses

• Simple Assault (Class D) – Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person.
• Domestic Violence Assault (Class D, elevated to C for prior convictions) – Assault against a family or household member.
• Violation of a Protective Order (Class D) – Knowingly violating the conditions of a protection from abuse order.

OUI / DUI Offenses

• OUI – First Offense (Class D) – Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• OUI – Second Offense (Class D) – This carries higher mandatory minimum penalties than a first offense.

Property Crimes

• Theft (Class D or E) – Stealing property valued below felony thresholds.
• Criminal Mischief (Class D or E) – Intentionally damaging another person’s property. More on this charge appears below.
• Criminal Trespass (Class D or E) – Entering or remaining on property without permission. Those facing related charges such as how to beat a trespassing charge should consult an attorney early.

Other Common Misdemeanors

• Disorderly Conduct (Class E) – Causing public inconvenience or alarm through fighting. This includes unreasonable noise or offensive behavior. A first-time disorderly conduct charge can potentially be resolved before trial with proper legal guidance.
• Minor Drug Possession (Class D or E) – Possessing small amounts of certain controlled substances for personal use.
• Operating After Suspension (Class E) – Driving with a suspended or revoked license.

Misdemeanor Sentences by Class

Misdemeanor sentences break down as follows:

• Class D – Up to 364 days in county jail and up to $2,000 in fines
• Class E – Up to 6 months in county jail and up to $1,000 in fines

We regularly see clients charged with Class D crimes. Many are surprised to learn the long-term consequences of a conviction on their record. Even a misdemeanor creates a permanent criminal record in Maine. That record can affect employment. It impacts housing applications. It influences professional licensing for years after you serve your sentence.

Some misdemeanors carry mandatory minimum jail time. A second-offense OUI requires a minimum of seven days in jail. Judges cannot reduce that minimum regardless of the circumstances.

What Is a Criminal Mischief Charge?

A criminal mischief charge in Maine covers the intentional or knowing damage to another person’s property. The offense is defined under criminal mischief. It is one of the most commonly charged property crimes in the state.

The classification depends on the extent of damage:

• Class D misdemeanor – Property damage under $2,000
• Class C felony – Damage between $2,000 and $10,000, or damage to certain protected property like public utilities or agricultural equipment
• Class B felony – Damage exceeding $10,000 or damage that creates a substantial risk of bodily injury

Common scenarios that lead to criminal mischief charges include vandalism. They include keying a vehicle or breaking windows during an argument. Property damage during a domestic incident often results in these charges. In our experience defending criminal mischief cases in Maine district courts, these charges often arise from heated moments rather than planned criminal behavior.

Can Criminal Mischief Charges Be Dropped?

Criminal mischief charges can potentially be dropped or reduced. However, the decision rests with the prosecutor, not the alleged victim. Even if the property owner does not want to press charges, the state can still move forward with the case.

Several paths may lead to getting charges dropped or reduced:

• Insufficient evidence – If the prosecution cannot prove you intentionally or knowingly caused the damage, the case may be dismissed.
• Restitution agreements – Prosecutors are often open to restitution negotiations for first-time offenders. This is especially true when the damage amount is low.
• Diversion programs – Some Maine courts offer diversion options that keep the charge off your record. You must complete certain conditions.
• Plea negotiations – Your attorney may negotiate a reduction to a civil violation or a lesser charge.
• Deferred disposition – The court may allow you to defer your case. If you complete all conditions within the set period, the charge can be dismissed.

Having a defense attorney negotiate with the prosecutor early in the process improves the chances of a favorable outcome. Every case is different. Results depend on the specific facts. They depend on the amount of damage, your criminal history, and the prosecutor’s priorities. No attorney can guarantee that charges will be dropped.

How Criminal Charges Affect Your Future in Maine

The consequences of a criminal charge extend far beyond fines and jail time. A conviction – even for a misdemeanor – can follow you for years.

Criminal Record and Background Checks – Most criminal convictions in Maine stay on your record permanently. Maine does not have a broad expungement statute. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards can access this information through background checks.

Employment – Many employers run criminal background checks during the hiring process. A conviction can disqualify you from jobs in healthcare, education, finance, and government. Professional licensing boards may deny or revoke licenses based on criminal history.

Housing – Landlords frequently screen applicants for criminal records. A conviction can make it harder to secure rental housing. This is particularly true in competitive markets.

Firearm Rights – A felony conviction in Maine strips your right to own or possess firearms under both state and federal law. Certain misdemeanor domestic violence convictions also trigger firearm restrictions.

Immigration Consequences – Non-citizens face additional stakes. Even a misdemeanor conviction can trigger deportation proceedings. It can cause denial of visa applications. It can bar naturalization.

Child Custody – Criminal charges affect custody and visitation decisions. This is especially true for domestic violence, drug crimes, or offenses against children. Courts consider a parent’s criminal history when determining what arrangement serves the child’s best interests.

Understanding these collateral consequences is critical when deciding how to handle your case. An experienced attorney can help you weigh the full impact of a conviction. They can help you evaluate the options available to you.

Talk to a Maine Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

Reading through a list of charges and penalties is a useful first step. But understanding the law and building an effective defense strategy are two very different things.

Webb Law Firm handles the full spectrum of criminal charges in Maine. We handle misdemeanor criminal mischief and OUI charges. We defend serious felonies like aggravated assault and drug trafficking. We know Maine’s criminal code inside and out. We understand how local prosecutors and courts operate across the state’s district and superior courts.

Early intervention gives your defense the most options. Before your arraignment, an attorney can review the evidence. They can identify weaknesses in the state’s case. They can begin negotiations with the prosecutor. The sooner you act, the more room your defense has to work.

Contact Webb Law Firm today to discuss your specific charges. Explore potential defenses with an experienced attorney. Get a realistic picture of what to expect. Every case is different. The best way to protect your future is to talk with an attorney who can evaluate your situation directly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Charges in Maine

What is the most serious criminal charge in Maine?

Murder is the most serious criminal charge in Maine. It carries a sentence of 25 years to life in prison. Other Class A crimes like gross sexual assault and aggravated trafficking also carry up to 30 years in prison.

What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Maine?

Maine classifies crimes by letter class rather than using the terms felony and misdemeanor in its statutes. Classes A, B, and C function as felonies. They carry potential state prison sentences of 5 to 30 years. Classes D and E function as misdemeanors. They carry up to 364 days or 6 months in county jail.

Can you go to jail for criminal mischief in Maine?

Yes, you can go to jail for criminal mischief in Maine. Criminal mischief is typically a Class D crime punishable by up to 364 days in jail. It can be elevated to a Class C or B crime based on the damage amount or type of property involved. First-time offenders may qualify for alternatives like deferred disposition or restitution agreements.

How long does a criminal charge stay on your record in Maine?

In most cases, a criminal conviction stays on your record permanently in Maine. The state does not have a broad expungement law. However, charges that were dismissed can be removed. So can charges that resulted in a not guilty verdict. Charges resolved through a completed deferred disposition may also be eligible for removal. An attorney can advise on your specific situation.