What is the maximum sentence for domestic violence in Maine?

Under 17-A M.R.S. § 207-A (Class D Crime (first); Class C Crime (prior conviction within 10 years)), Maine domestic violence carries a maximum sentence of 364 days (first); 5 years (second+) and a maximum fine of $2,000 (first); $5,000 (second+).

Does Maine have a mandatory minimum for domestic violence?

Maine does not impose a blanket mandatory minimum for simple domestic violence. Specific charges or enhancements may carry their own minimums.

What factors enhance a domestic violence charge in Maine?

In Maine, domestic violence penalties can be enhanced by: Prior DV conviction within 10 years (Class C Crime); Strangulation (§ 208-D, Class B Crime); Victim was pregnant.

Maine Domestic Violence Law

Maine Domestic Violence Defense

What you're facing under 17-A M.R.S. § 207-A, how the penalties scale, and the questions your attorney needs to answer, specific to Maine (ME) domestic violence law.

Offense Class

Class D Crime (first); Class C Crime (prior conviction within 10 years)

Maximum Penalty

364 days (first); 5 years (second+)

Maximum Fine

$2,000 (first); $5,000 (second+)

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Federal Firearms Prohibition (Lautenberg Amendment)

A conviction for misdemeanor domestic violence in Maine carries a federalfirearms-possession ban under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(9). This consequence is collateral to Maine state penalties and applies regardless of the state sentence imposed.

Penalty Range in Maine

Statute17-A M.R.S. § 207-A — Domestic Violence Assault

Minimum Penalty

Maximum Penalty364 days (first); 5 years (second+)

Maximum Fine$2,000 (first); $5,000 (second+)

Charge Enhancements

These factors can elevate the charge or penalty in Maine:

Prior DV conviction within 10 years (Class C Crime)
Strangulation (§ 208-D, Class B Crime)
Victim was pregnant

Maine-Specific Detail

Maine has mandatory arrest policy for DV crimes. Second offense within 10 years is elevated. Firearms prohibition upon conviction.

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Important: This page provides legal INFORMATION about Maine domestic violence law as of the date of publication. Laws change frequently. This is not legal advice. The analysis draws on methods developed by defense attorneys, applied to public data. Your attorney remains the final authority on defense direction.