If you’ve been charged with a crime in Florida, one of the first formal steps in your case is the arraignment. It may sound intimidating, but an arraignment is simply a hearing where the court officially informs you of the charges against you and asks how you wish to plead. It’s a crucial step, and knowing what to expect can help you approach it with clarity and confidence.

What Is an Arraignment?

In Florida, the arraignment typically takes place shortly after your arrest and initial appearance, usually within a few weeks. It’s not a trial. No witnesses are called, and no evidence is presented. The purpose is procedural: to ensure you understand the charges and to enter your plea.

What to Expect at the Arraignment

At the arraignment, the judge formally begins the criminal court process. Although it may seem procedural, this hearing plays a critical role in setting the stage for how your case will move forward. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what typically happens:

1. The Court Confirms Your Identity

The judge will begin by confirming who you are. This includes asking your name, checking your information against court records, and ensuring that you’re the person named in the criminal complaint or charging document. This step may seem routine, but it’s essential for procedural accuracy.

2. Formal Reading of the Charges

Next, the prosecutor or the judge will read out the formal criminal charges being filed against you. This could be anything from a misdemeanor, like petty theft, to a felony, such as aggravated assault. The charges come from the arrest report and any investigation that followed.

In some cases, the charges may differ slightly from those listed at the time of arrest. This happens if the prosecutor decides to modify them after reviewing the evidence.

3. Notification of Your Rights

The judge will then explain your constitutional rights. This includes your right to:

• Remain silent
• Have an attorney (and have one appointed if you cannot afford one)
• A speedy trial
• Be presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt

This ensures you are fully aware of your legal protections before entering any plea.

4. Entry of a Plea

After you’re informed of the charges and your rights, the judge will ask how you wish to plead. You generally have three options:

• Not Guilty: This means you deny the charges and want to move forward to trial or further legal proceedings.
• Guilty: You admit to the offense. The case can then proceed directly to sentencing, sometimes that same day.
• No Contest (Nolo Contendere): You don’t admit guilt, but also do not dispute the charges. This plea can still result in a conviction, but in some cases, it may not be used against you in a civil lawsuit related to the same incident.

Important: Your plea should never be made lightly. An experienced attorney can evaluate the strength of the case against you and help determine the best course of action, especially if the prosecution is open to negotiations or diversion programs.

5. Setting Future Dates

If you plead not guilty, the court will then set future dates for upcoming proceedings, such as a pretrial conference, motion hearings, or even a trial date. Bail or bond conditions may also be reviewed or adjusted during this hearing, depending on the circumstances.

In felony cases, the arraignment often follows a prior “first appearance” (usually within 24 hours of arrest), where initial bail is set. However, the arraignment remains a key point for entering your plea and beginning the formal defense process.

Should You Have an Attorney at Your Arraignment?

Absolutely. While an arraignment may seem routine, having a criminal defense attorney by your side can make a significant difference. Your lawyer can:

• Advise you on how to plead based on the specifics of your case.
• Challenge the legality of the charges, if appropriate.
• Negotiate with the prosecutor beforehand; sometimes charges can even be reduced or dismissed before arraignment.
• Waive your appearance, in certain misdemeanor cases, allowing your attorney to appear on your behalf so you don’t have to attend in person. 

What If You Miss Your Arraignment?

Failing to appear at your arraignment can have serious consequences. The judge may issue a bench warrant for your arrest, and it could hurt your chances for bail or leniency later in the process. If something comes up that prevents you from attending, your attorney may be able to reschedule or appear on your behalf, but this must be handled in advance.

Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Today

An arraignment might seem like just a formality, but it sets the tone for your entire case. It’s your first official appearance in the courtroom as a defendant, and what happens there can influence everything that follows. Having experienced legal representation ensures that your rights are protected and that your defense begins on a strong footing from day one.

If you’ve been arrested or received a notice to appear in court, don’t wait. Criminal defense lawyer Russell A. Spatz of the Spatz Law Firm, P.L., in Miami, Florida, has decades of experience handling serious criminal cases. Contact him at 305-442-0200 to discuss your case and ensure you have the protection and vigorous representation you need.

Many people are unaware that it is a criminal offense in Maine to make a false report of an emergency that causes public alarm. Even those who are aware of the offense are sometimes surprised by the severity of the consequences of a conviction.

If found guilty of the offense of “false public alarm or report,” not only will you carry a criminal record for the rest of your life but you can also face lengthy jail terms and hefty fines.

Let’s take a closer look at what constitutes this offense, including some recent examples in Maine, along with an overview of the defenses that can be used to fight charges.

What is Considered a False Public Alarm or Report in Maine?

Knowingly providing false information to law enforcement or emergency services with the intent to induce them to believe a crime has been committed is a criminal offense in Maine.

The Maine Criminal Code says that a person is guilty of the offense of false public alarm or report if the person knowingly gives or causes to be given false information:

• To a law enforcement officer or an emergency communications center with the intent of inducing the officer or the emergency communications center, or any other emergency services personnel, to believe that a crime has been committed, knowing the information to be false.
• To a law enforcement officer, a member of a firefighting agency, including a volunteer fire department, an emergency communications center, or any other person knowing that the other person is likely to communicate the information to any of the above l concerning a fire, explosive, or other similar substance that is capable of endangering the safety of persons, knowing that the information is false, or knowing that the person has no information relating to the fire, explosive, or other similar substance.
• Concerning an emergency to an ambulance service, or any other emergency services personnel or a government agency or public utility that deals with emergencies involving danger to life or property, with the intent of inducing the service, personnel, agency, or utility to respond to the reported emergency, knowing the information to be false.  

Note that an “emergency communications center” means a state, county, or municipal government entity that receives calls by 9-1-1, business lines, radio, or other methods.

What is an aggravated false public alarm or report?

An aggravated false public alarm or report offense occurs when the person commits the above-described offenses while causing the evacuation, shutdown, or lockdown of a building, school, public square, park, place of assembly, or public transportation facility.

Penalties for Making a False Public Alarm or Report in Maine

The offense of making a false public alarm or report is currently a Class D (misdemeanor-level) crime in Maine, resulting in maximum penalties of:

• Up to 364 days of jail, and
• A fine of up to $2,000.

In aggravated cases, the offense is elevated to a Class C (felony-level) crime, which results in:

• Up to five years in prison, and
• A fine of up to $5,000.

With such life-changing penalties possible, it is essential to seek experienced criminal defense representation if you are charged with these offenses.

Examples of False Alarm Offenses: Swatting and School Threats

One of the most prominent examples of false alarm offenses in recent years in Maine has been false active shooter threats at schools.

On these occasions, false reports have triggered a lockdown, evacuation, or shutdown at a school or public place, with emergency personnel called to the scene and widespread panic created in the local community.

Ten schools received a fake active shooter report on one day alone in November 2022, triggering a massive police and emergency services response in several towns, from Sanford and Portland to Gardiner.

“Swatting” offenses, as they are known, may also involve a prank call about a hostage situation, with the intention of law enforcement sending a SWAT team or other officers to a targeted location.

Because of a spate of such “hoax” incidents, there were many calls for state lawmakers to increase the penalties for offenders, notably to raise Class D offenses to Class C. This prompted law changes in 2023 that introduced the aggravated version of the crime described above, which is a felony offense.

Legal Defenses Against False Public Alarm Charges in Maine

Public reaction against swatting offenses in Maine has helped to shape law enforcement responses to false public alarm charges. However, sometimes people are wrongly accused of the offense and make calls to emergency services in good faith, believing they are doing the right thing.

Criminal defense lawyers employ several legal strategies to contest such charges, including:

A mistake of fact

Intent must be proven by the prosecution for a conviction for a false public alarm or report offense. If the defendant did not have the intent to commit a crime because he/she misunderstood a particular fact—for instance, the defendant held a reasonable, good faith belief that an emergency was occurring—this defense can work.

There was a real emergency

If the prosecution asserts that the report of a false or fake emergency was made but the defense can show that there was a real emergency in progress when the call was made, this may be an effective defense.

The report did not claim an “emergency”

The understanding of an “emergency” can change from one individual or department to the next. If the defendant made a report but did not class the situation as an emergency, but it was interpreted as such by law enforcement, this may be a valid defense.

For experienced legal help and support with a charge of false public alarm or report, call the Maine Criminal Defense Group or contact us directly online for an initial case evaluation.

Blog Article

Defendants in criminal cases typically have four options for resolving their case if the charges are not dismissed:

1. Plea negotiation, where the defendant agrees to plead guilty (or no contest) to one or more charges in exchange for a concession from the prosecution.
2. Plead guilty/no contest with an agreed-upon disposition (outcome).
3. Plead guilty/no contest without an agreed-upon disposition. The State and the defense present arguments for the appropriate sentence, which the court will decide upon.
4. Proceed to a trial, where a judge or jury will decide guilt or innocence and, if convicted, a sentence will be imposed.

In Maine, a fifth option is deferred disposition. Let’s take a look at what this is, who it may be available to, and how it works in practice across the state.

How Deferred Disposition Works in Maine

Deferred disposition is an alternative sentencing option available to some defendants in Maine. As with plea bargaining, this option requires agreement from the State before it can proceed.

With deferred disposition, the prosecutor and the defendant sign a legally binding deferred disposition agreement, which acts like a contract outlining the responsibilities of each party.

The defendant then enters a guilty plea but the court does not impose a sentence. Consequently, this is not regarded as a conviction. In Maine, a conviction is registered after the sentence is imposed.

After the guilty plea is entered, the court postpones the final disposition of the case for a predetermined period, typically six months to one year, but sometimes longer.

If the defendant successfully meets all obligations, as stated in the deferred disposition agreement, the charges against the defendant will be dismissed or reduced at the end of the designated period. In most cases, successful compliance with the conditions results in the defendant having no conviction or criminal record.

However, with deferred disposition, the State can find defendants guilty of the original charges if they fail to comply with the conditions. This guilty verdict cannot be appealed.

Who Qualifies for Deferred Disposition?

Deferred disposition is more likely to be an option for first-time offenders or young people accused of certain misdemeanor offenses, such as shoplifting, trespassing, low-level domestic violence cases, underage possession of alcohol, low-level drug offenses, prostitution, or the destruction of property.

This type of alternative sentence may also be an option where the State’s case is particularly weak or the defendant has taken active steps to address the underlying issue that led to the alleged criminal behavior.

Many times, deferred disposition is an option for people with mental health problems or addiction issues that would not be resolved by spending time in jail.

What is the Difference Between Probation and Deferred Disposition in Maine?

At first glance, deferred disposition and probation are almost identical. Indeed, deferred disposition can be considered a form of probation.

The main difference is that deferred disposition is a plea agreement offered to a defendant before a criminal case is resolved, while probation is a criminal penalty imposed after a conviction, preventing imprisonment.

There are also key differences with the conditions imposed.

Conditions of Deferred Disposition vs Probation

Below is an overview of the types of conditions imposed in deferred disposition agreements compared with those imposed by a judge for probation.

Conditions of Deferred Disposition

Typically, the defendant is required to perform community service, maintain employment or schooling, attend counseling, complete a substance abuse evaluation, receive appropriate treatment like anger management, pay restitution to the victim, pay monthly court fees, etc. These conditions vary based on the charges filed.

Conditions of Probation

With probation, a judge can order a wide range of requirements, including:

• Regular meetings with the probation officer.
• Maintaining adequate employment.
• Refraining from alcohol or drugs.
• Not possessing firearms.
• Not committing any other criminal offense.
• Remaining within state lines unless prior permission is sought and received.
• Submitting to random alcohol and drug testing.
• Paying restitution to the victims of the crime.
• Attending court hearings.

Modification of Deferred Disposition Requirements

According to the Maine Legislature, deferred disposition agreements may be modified during the period of deferment if the person granted deferred disposition applies for a modification or by court motion.

A hearing may be held, after which the court may modify the conditions imposed on the defendant, either adding further requirements or relieving any conditions that, in the court’s opinion, impose an unreasonable burden on the individual.

Deferred Disposition May be an Option Depending on Where You Live

The judicial system in Maine exhibits several disparities between counties—and the handling of deferred disposition cases is a good example of inconsistencies in the system from one county to another.

Some counties put greater resources into supporting people who are prepared to admit to a crime for a chance to avoid a criminal record, especially young people and first-time offenders who have committed relatively minor crimes. With the Maine courts overloaded with cases and the prisons dealing with high populations, the benefits of this for the State, as well as the accused, are clear.

Cumberland County, for example, has handled many thousands of deferred disposition cases in the past 20 years since they began the practice, with over 80 percent of cases complying with the conditions imposed.

However, in other counties, deferred dispositions are much less common, highlighting an inconsistency in how criminal cases are handled statewide. Much of the lower uptake of deferred disposition cases is due to a lack of funding in some counties to adequately monitor, track, and support the offender during the deferred disposition period.

Your chances of being offered deferred disposition vary according not only to your age, criminal record, and the charges you face, but also where in Maine you live or are charged. This should be discussed with a qualified criminal defense lawyer as part of your defense strategy.

For experienced legal help and support with any criminal charge, call The Maine Criminal Defense Group or contact us directly online for an initial case evaluation.

Blog Article

If you’ve been charged with a crime in Florida, one of the first questions you may ask is: “Can these charges be dropped before I even go to trial?” The short answer is yes, criminal charges can be dropped before trial, but whether they will be dropped depends on a number of legal and procedural factors.

Who Has the Power to Drop Charges?

In Florida and in most jurisdictions, only the prosecutor (also known as the State Attorney) has the authority to drop criminal charges. Contrary to popular belief, the victim of the alleged crime cannot unilaterally decide to “press” or “drop” charges.

That said, a victim’s wishes can carry weight, especially in cases like domestic violence or battery. But ultimately, it is the prosecution that makes the final decision, based on the strength of the evidence and the interests of justice.

Common Reasons Why Charges May Be Dropped Before Trial

Criminal charges don’t always move forward to trial. In fact, many are resolved or dismissed long before a jury is ever selected. Here are some of the most common reasons prosecutors choose to drop charges:

1. Lack of Evidence

If the evidence is too weak to support a conviction, the State may decide not to pursue the case. This can happen when:

• Key witnesses recant or are unavailable
• Surveillance footage contradicts the allegations
• Physical evidence is missing or was never collected
• The arresting officer made errors in procedure 

It’s important to investigate aggressively to expose these weaknesses and bring them to the prosecutor’s attention early.

2. Violation of Constitutional Rights

If your rights were violated during the arrest or investigation such as an illegal search, a coerced confession, or failure to Mirandize you, the evidence obtained could be suppressed. If key evidence is thrown out, the prosecution may be forced to drop the case.

3. Witness Credibility Issues

The prosecution relies heavily on witness testimony, especially in cases involving assault, theft, or domestic disputes. If a witness has credibility issues, changes their story, or refuses to cooperate, the case may no longer be viable.

4. Victim Refuses to Cooperate

While victims don’t control whether charges move forward, their cooperation can be crucial. If a victim refuses to testify, provides inconsistent statements, or expresses a desire not to proceed, the prosecution may decide to drop the charges, particularly in misdemeanor or first-time offender cases.

5. Pretrial Diversion or Intervention Programs

For certain offenses, especially non-violent or first-time charges, Florida offers diversion programs. If you’re accepted into such a program and meet its conditions (like community service or counseling), the charges may be dropped upon successful completion.

6. Plea Negotiations

Sometimes, the defense and prosecution reach an agreement before trial that results in charges being dropped or reduced. For example, a felony might be reduced to a misdemeanor, or certain counts might be dismissed in exchange for a plea on another.

How a Defense Attorney Can Help Get Charges Dropped

Having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side early in the process can significantly improve your chances of getting charges dropped. Here’s how we advocate for our clients:

• They review the evidence thoroughly and look for flaws, inconsistencies, or legal violations.
• They negotiate directly with prosecutors, presenting mitigating factors and pushing for dismissal when appropriate.
• They file pretrial motions, such as motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges, to pressure the State to reconsider the case.

In many cases, what happens in the first 30–60 days after an arrest can shape the entire trajectory of a case. Acting quickly can make all the difference.

What If Charges Aren’t Dropped?

Even if the State doesn’t dismiss the case before trial, all hope isn’t lost. Many cases are still resolved favorably through:

• Pretrial negotiations
• Filing motions to exclude evidence
• Plea deals that avoid jail time
• A trial defense that leads to an acquittal

A strong, early legal strategy puts you in the best position for any outcome.

Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Today

Yes, criminal charges can be dropped before trial in Florida, but it doesn’t happen automatically. It takes legal knowledge, strategic action, and often persistent negotiation to make it happen.

If you’ve been arrested in Miami or anywhere in South Florida, don’t wait to take action. Criminal defense lawyer Russell A. Spatz of the Spatz Law Firm, P.L., in Miami, Florida, has decades of experience handling serious criminal cases. Contact him at 305-442-0200 to discuss your case and ensure you have the protection and vigorous representation you need.

Few laws in Florida have generated as much public attention, legal debate, and widespread misunderstanding as the Stand Your Ground statute. Originally designed to reinforce an individual’s right to self-defense, it has become one of the most controversial legal doctrines in the state, frequently at the center of high-profile cases and legal commentary. 

Despite its prominence, many people remain unclear about when the law applies and what protections it truly offers. For Florida residents, especially those facing criminal charges involving claims of self-defense, a clear understanding of how this law works is essential in building an effective legal strategy.

What Is the Stand Your Ground Law?

Florida’s Stand Your Ground law allows individuals to use deadly force to defend themselves without a duty to retreat when they reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm. In simpler terms, if someone threatens you with serious violence and you genuinely fear for your life or safety, you don’t have to try to escape before defending yourself even with deadly force. 

This principle is outlined in Florida Statute § 776.012, which states that a person is justified in using deadly force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent death or serious injury to themselves or another, or to prevent the commission of a forcible felony such as robbery, kidnapping, or sexual assault.

Key Features of Florida’s Stand Your Ground Law

Here’s what makes Florida’s law unique, and sometimes controversial:

No Duty to Retreat

• In many other states, a person must try to escape the situation (if safely possible) before using deadly force. In Florida, you are not required to retreat if you’re somewhere you have a legal right to be.

Applies Outside the Home

• The law applies not only in your home (which falls under the “Castle Doctrine”) but also in public places like a parking lot, street, or business if you’re lawfully present there.

Civil and Criminal Immunity

• If you successfully invoke Stand Your Ground, you may be immune from criminal prosecution and civil lawsuits. In other words, if a judge agrees that the law applies, your case could be dismissed before ever going to trial.

When Stand Your Ground Does Not Apply

Despite popular belief, Stand Your Ground isn’t a “get out of jail free” card. There are specific circumstances where it does not apply:

• If you were the aggressor in the situation (e.g., you started the physical altercation).
• If your fear wasn’t reasonable, even if you personally felt threatened.
• If the use of force was disproportionate to the perceived threat.
• If the other person was retreating or no longer posed a danger.

Also, if you were engaged in unlawful activity at the time (such as trespassing or drug trafficking), your right to claim Stand Your Ground could be severely limited.

Stand Your Ground Case Example

One of the most widely known and controversial cases involving Stand Your Ground was the 2012 Trayvon Martin shooting, when a shooting of an unarmed teenager triggered a national conversation. 

The defendant in that case was ultimately found not guilty after self-defense was argued, sparking widespread debate about how this law is interpreted and applied. In the years since Florida courts have continued to refine the legal standards for invoking Stand Your Ground immunity. For example, in Volusia County last year, charges were dismissed for a homeowner accused of fatally shooting a neighbor, after a judge concluded the claimant met the criteria for self-defense under the law.

Why Legal Representation Is Critical

Invoking Stand Your Ground successfully requires more than just claiming self-defense. Judges and prosecutors carefully scrutinize the timeline of events, the perceived threat, witness testimony, physical and forensic evidence, and your actions before, during, and after the incident. 

That’s why working with an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential, an attorney can help assess whether the law applies to your situation, build a compelling narrative backed by evidence, and protect your rights from the very first hearing.

Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Today

Florida’s Stand Your Ground law can offer powerful protections, but it’s not as simple as many believe. It’s a legal defense with strict requirements and serious consequences if misapplied.

If you or someone you love is facing charges involving self-defense or use of force, don’t take chances. Contact the Spatz Law Firm, PL, at 305-442-0200. We’ll walk you through your options and start building a defense that protects your future.

OUI cases in Maine usually start when a law enforcement officer pulls over a vehicle. From that point, many things can happen but if the officer even has a slight suspicion that a driver has been drinking, the likely outcome is field sobriety tests, breath tests, and possibly other chemical tests.

Depending on the results of these tests, license suspensions may result and criminal charges may be filed.

For these reasons, OUI stops should be taken very seriously. It helps to understand the driving patterns that officers look for as signs of intoxication before deciding to stop a vehicle, the signs they look for during field tests, and how to challenge results that lead to an OUI charge.

Here’s what you need to know.

Driving conduct associated with impaired driving

Police officers on patrol in Maine, like everywhere in the U.S., look for particular types of driver conduct to establish the “reasonable suspicion” usually necessary for an OUI stop. They cannot simply pull over a vehicle on a whim but, instead, look for certain driving patterns, especially at nighttime and on weekends/holidays.

An infraction such as speeding, running a red light or failing to signal at a turn usually provides the reason to stop the vehicle. If the driver has not been drinking, a traffic ticket may result. If the officer suspects the driver has consumed any alcohol, a series of field tests will likely be performed to check if the driver is under the influence or impaired.

Many studies have been conducted to identify the type of “reckless” driving behavior indicating impairment. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) has identified the following driver actions as particularly indicative of impairment:

• Making wide-radius turns
• Straddling lane dividers or road demarcations
• Extensive weaving or swerving
• Driving under the speed limit by 10 mph or more
• Driving at erratic speeds

Speeding does not correlate closely with impaired driving

Surprisingly, for some people, the NHTSA does not include speeding in its list of actions that correlate closely with impaired driving. Despite this, law enforcement officers in OUI cases often cite speeding as the reason for pulling a driver over.

Regardless of any signs of intoxication observed by a law enforcement officer after the stop, if the stop itself was unlawful, a defendant cannot be found guilty of OUI. So, if speeding is cited in an OUI case as the reason for stopping a vehicle, the defense may be able to challenge the charge based on this.

Speak to an OUI defense lawyer if you do not believe an officer had reasonable suspicion to pull you over. However, bear in mind that defending someone who drove excessively over the speed limit using the “unlawful stop” argument is far more challenging.

Signs and symptoms of drunk driving

After the vehicle has stopped, a law enforcement officer will question the driver, look for any evidence of being under the influence, and try to establish “probable cause” for an arrest to be made if necessary.

Typically, officers have been trained to detect the following signs of intoxication:

• Slurred or incoherent speech
• Bloodshot and watery eyes
• Alcohol odors on or around the driver
• Inconsistencies in the driver’s “story”
• Slow responses to questioning
• Unsteadiness on the feet or stumbling out of the vehicle
• Poor motor skills
• Fumbling with a wallet/driver’s license

The officer may request that the driver participate in field sobriety testing or provide a breath sample. The driver can refuse these processes but will likely then be asked to perform a chemical test. A refusal will result in a license suspension and a potential criminal charge under Maine’s “implied consent” laws.

Challenging an OUI traffic stop in Maine

Pleading guilty in an OUI case is rarely (if ever) the best option, due to the harsh long-term consequences that accompany a conviction.

The evidence against defendants is often not as “watertight” as the prosecution claims. Several arguments may be used to challenge the evidence against almost anyone charged with an OUI offense—especially if the driver is only slightly over the legal limit.

Most defenses relate to sobriety test results, such as chemical tests like breathalyzers or blood tests, or field sobriety assessments. These are all subject to human error, faulty equipment, and improper administration.

Challenging a blood test

Blood tests are generally regarded as a reliable way to measure blood alcohol concentration (BAC) because they are conducted in labs. However, because it takes time for the test to be administered, one possible defense may be that the driver was under the limit when stopped but the BAC later rose when the blood was taken.

Challenging a breath test

Roadside breath tests using “breathalyzers” are often used as key evidence in OUI cases in Maine. An experienced OUI defense lawyer can often challenge the accuracy of these test results due to an incorrectly administered test or poorly calibrated equipment.

Challenging a field sobriety test

Field sobriety tests include HGN testing (horizontal gaze nystagmus), the walk and turn, and the one-leg stand. In each of these tests, there is considerable room for human error, especially if the police officer failed to provide clear instructions.

Are OUI checkpoints legal in Maine?

Despite the police usually requiring reasonable suspicion to initiate a traffic stop, the Supreme Court has ruled that sobriety checkpoints or OUI roadblocks are legal under federal law. This is because they are regarded as serving a significant public safety interest and involve only minimal intrusion on drivers.

To be lawful, checkpoints must follow a predetermined, neutral plan for stopping vehicles, use proper signage and visible authority presence, keep the stops brief and non-discriminatory, and avoid extending the detention without further cause.

For experienced legal help with any OUI charge, call the Maine Criminal Defense Group at 207-571-8146 for an initial case evaluation.

OUI Blog Articles

A criminal conviction usually appears on criminal records for life in Maine, potentially impacting the individual’s employment, education, travel, housing, immigration status, and more.

However, certain low-level misdemeanor convictions can be sealed, meaning that they do not show up on most background checks. For instance, those convicted of marijuana-related offenses have the right to apply to the Maine courts to seal the records related to their convictions, as marijuana was decriminalized in the state in 2017.

Law changes made in Maine in August 2024 amended the eligibility criteria for sealing convictions, making it easier for those convicted of certain offenses, and reducing the impact on their futures.

The changes amended two main elements of the laws:

• Removal of the age-related prerequisite for sealing criminal history.
• Allowing people to apply to get their criminal histories sealed for marijuana crimes that are now no longer criminal offenses.

Other proposals exist to adjust criminal record sealing eligibility in Maine and potentially allow automatic record sealing for convictions for decriminalized acts. Let’s look at the relevant laws as they stand now and how sealing criminal convictions works.

Difference Between Sealing and Expunging Criminal Records in Maine

In Maine, criminal records cannot generally be expunged or completely erased from the record, as in some states. However, if the court grants a pardon, as it may in exceptional cases, the conviction records are erased, so that no entity or agency can access them (similar to an expungement).

Limited court powers also exist to seal some adult criminal records and erase them from public view if:

• The person is aged 18-21 and convicted of a Class E crime or selected Class D crimes (the least severe misdemeanor offenses).
• A valid petition for conviction record sealing has been received.

Each criminal record may contain both “public criminal history record information” and “confidential criminal history information”. This can only be accessed by specific agencies and entities. The type of information visible on criminal records that have not been sealed includes:

• All summons and arrest information.
• Records that detail the prosecution process.
• Records that show that the court postponed or dismissed proceedings due to the mental state of the defendant.
• Dismissed charges.
• Acquittals, not including insanity pleas.

Do Sealed Records Show Up in Maine Background Checks?

If a record is sealed, it usually means that the record is not visible to the public, such as in employer background checks. However, it is usually still available to law enforcement agencies and some professional licensing agencies.

In other words, the court will remove all information considered non-conviction data to make the personal information unavailable upon public records requests, but authorized personnel within law enforcement agencies will still be able to view the conviction data.

How to Seal a Criminal Record in Maine

In Maine, the State Bureau of Identification (“SBI”) keeps track of criminal records. To check whether you have a criminal record, you can apply here to download a report.

When we refer to “removing” criminal records in Maine, it is the same as sealing records. Eligible candidates can fill out a Petition for Executive Clemency form and file a motion requesting that the court seal parts of the record.

To be eligible for record sealing, the individual must have waited four years since finishing any sentence imposed, received no new criminal convictions since that time, and have no convictions pending.

Generally, applicants also need a valid reason for sealing the record, as well as meeting all of the eligibility criteria. Once a record is sealed, the individuals concerned can indicate they do not have a criminal record to employers, etc.

The only other way to remove a criminal record from the Maine SBI database is through a pardon by the Governor. However, pardons are extremely rare and, if you think you are eligible, it is best to check with a criminal defense lawyer before venturing too far down this route.

What types of criminal offenses can be sealed in Maine?

Only Class E crimes and certain Class D crimes are eligible for record sealing in Maine. Examples of eligible Class E crimes that may be subject to record sealing include:

• Operating on a suspended license
• Theft of less than $1,000
• Prostitution
• Disorderly conduct
• Criminal trespass
• Public intoxication
• Driving to endanger
• Online harassment

These non-violent, low-level misdemeanors can still result in up to six months’ incarceration and a $1,000 fine. Some Class E sexual assault convictions are excluded from this list and cannot be sealed.

Depending on the date of the conviction, some Class D marijuana-related crimes listed under Title 17-A, section 1105-D of the Maine Statutes may also qualify for record sealing. The eligibility for record sealing only applies if the crime was committed before January 30, 2017 (when marijuana was decriminalized in Maine).

Aggravated trafficking, furnishing or cultivation of scheduled drugs, as well as aggravated cultivation of marijuana and unlawful possession of a scheduled drug (marijuana) are examples of Class D offenses that have become eligible for record sealing with the law changes. No Class A, B, or C crimes (classified as felonies in Maine) are eligible for record sealing in Maine.

Given the limited options available for sealing criminal conviction records in Maine, the best strategy is to avoid a conviction altogether by working with a seasoned criminal defense lawyer as soon as you are aware of the charges against you. This will increase your chances of having the charges dismissed or downgraded, or securing an acquittal.

For experienced legal help and support with a petition for sealing a criminal conviction or a pardon, call the Maine Criminal Defense Group at 207-571-8146 for an initial case evaluation.

Blog Posts

Many times, people misunderstand what a criminal trial actually looks like. They often assume it’s like the dramatic scenes they see in movies, filled with surprises and last-minute confessions. But in reality, the movies show us a version of the process that’s far removed from what actually happens.

Let’s dive into some of the biggest misunderstandings about how criminal trials actually work, and what you can expect if you’re ever in that position.

Misconception #1: “If I’m innocent, I don’t need a lawyer.”

It’s a common and dangerous belief that being innocent automatically protects you from conviction. Unfortunately, the justice system is not perfect, and even innocent people can get caught up in criminal charges. Having a skilled criminal defense attorney is critical because:

• They protect your constitutional rights: Without a lawyer, you might unknowingly waive important rights or say something that can be used against you, even if you didn’t do anything wrong.
  
• They challenge questionable evidence: Sometimes, police or prosecutors rely on weak evidence like unreliable witness statements, flawed lineups, or questionable lab results. A defense lawyer knows how to investigate and challenge that evidence effectively.
  
• They build a strategic defense: Even if you’re innocent, the way your defense is presented matters. An experienced attorney gathers witnesses, experts, and documentation that can show the full picture of what happened.

Misconception #2: “Trials always happen quickly.”

In movies, it seems like someone gets arrested, and the next day they’re in court facing a jury. In real life, the process is usually much longer and sometimes feels frustratingly slow. Here’s why cases take time to reach trial:

• Investigations can take weeks or months: Police and prosecutors gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build their case. Meanwhile, your defense team also needs time to investigate and prepare.
  
• Pretrial motions are common: These are legal requests made to the judge like asking to exclude certain evidence or to dismiss charges altogether. These motions are crucial to shaping what the jury actually sees and hears.
  
• Scheduling conflicts often arise: Courts handle many cases at once, so your trial might be delayed due to other cases on the docket.
  
• Discovery must be completed: Both sides need to share evidence before the trial, which can involve reviewing documents, videos, expert reports, and more. This process is time-consuming but essential to a fair trial.

Misconception #3: “The jury always decides the case.”

Many people think that every criminal case ends with a jury deliberating and reading a verdict. In reality, most cases are resolved without a jury trial. Here’s what actually happens most of the time:

• Plea bargains are very common: Prosecutors often offer reduced charges or lighter sentences in exchange for a guilty plea. This can avoid the risk of a harsher sentence at trial.
  
• Some cases are dismissed: If the defense can show that the evidence is weak, improperly obtained, or insufficient, the judge may dismiss the charges before trial.
  
• Bench trials are an option: In certain cases, a defendant may choose to have a judge (rather than a jury) decide the case. This is called a bench trial and can be quicker and more focused on legal issues rather than emotions.

Misconception #4: “The prosecution has to prove the defendant is guilty beyond any doubt.”

The legal standard in a criminal trial is beyond a reasonable doubt, but that’s not the same as beyond all doubt. This is a subtle but important distinction. Reasonable doubt means that if a juror has any reasonable uncertainty about the defendant’s guilt, they must acquit. However, it does not mean that the juror has to be 100% certain or that every single doubt, no matter how unrealistic, must be eliminated. Jurors are instructed to use their common sense and life experiences to decide whether the evidence proves guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Understanding this standard is key for both the defense and the prosecution in shaping their arguments and presenting their case.

Misconception #5: “If the police didn’t read me my rights, my case gets thrown out.”

This is a common myth, thanks again to TV. Miranda rights only apply when you’re in custody and being interrogated. If police fail to read you your rights, statements you made in response to police questioning after arrest may be excluded from evidence, but the case itself usually doesn’t get dismissed. Other evidence, like physical evidence seized legally or statements you made voluntarily before being arrested can still be used against you. 

Miranda rights also do not apply to spontaneous, unprompted statements, meaning if you blurt something out without being asked, that can still be used. So while Miranda rights are important, not reading them doesn’t automatically end the case.

Misconception #6: “A trial is just about telling your side of the story.”

A trial is not a free-for-all where you can tell the jury anything you want. It’s a carefully controlled process governed by strict rules of evidence and procedure.

• Only certain evidence is allowed: Judges decide what’s relevant and admissible. Some statements might not be allowed at all.
• Witnesses must be properly vetted: The defense and prosecution both have the right to challenge the credibility of witnesses before they testify.
• The defense attorney’s job is to guide your story: They know how to present your side in a way that meets legal standards and connects with the jury.

Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges, don’t let TV myths cloud your understanding. This should be handled by an attorney who has the experience and knowledge to protect your rights and your freedom no matter what type of charge you are facing.

Criminal defense lawyer Russell A. Spatz of the Spatz Law Firm, PL, in Miami, Florida, has decades of experience handling serious criminal cases. Contact him at 305-442-0200 to discuss your case and ensure you have the protection and vigorous representation you need.