You Need a Great Lawyer on Your Side

Our lawyers have successfully represented clients charged with everything from the most serious felonies, like Murder and Elevated Aggravated Assault, to misdemeanors, like Domestic Violence (DV) Assault. We listen to our client's side of the story and carefully review the evidence gathered by police. In addition, we routinely employ a private investigator to gather evidence that the police may have missed and to interview any witnesses, including the alleged victim. These interviews may reveal new information, inconsistencies in a witness's statements, or a change in the alleged victim's attitude (e.g., alleged victim no longer wants to "press charges"). 

Charges of DV Assault sometimes intersect with other family law issues such as divorce cases, parental-rights-and-responsibilities cases, and protection-from-abuse cases. If you are facing such a dilemma, then call on the experience and knowledge of the Law Offices of Dylan Boyd.

Whatever sort of assault case you are dealing with, you need a great lawyer on your side. From case investigation and preparation to plea negotiation to jury trial and beyond, we can help you turn the page on this unfortunate chapter of your life. For more information about your case, contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Examples of Violent Crimes in Maine

Sometimes referred to as offenses against the person, violent crimes include conduct ranging from Assault to Murder. Examples of violent crimes include:

• Assault;
• Aggravated Assault;
• Kidnapping;
• Robbery;
• Aggravated Robbery;
• Sexual Assault;
• Domestic Violence; and
• Murder and Manslaughter.

Domestic Violence in Maine

What you think is just an argument can turn into something much more. Who knows what happened? A neighbor may hear raised voices and call the police. The police arrive and decide an argument ensued and so someone must be arrested for domestic violence. Domestic violence crimes in Maine carry serious consequences. If you have been charged in Portland or anywhere in Maine with a domestic violence or related offense, it is imperative to contact a defense attorney as soon as possible. 

Domestic violence describes a range of harm committed in the context of a relationship between family or household members, usually between spouses or intimate partners. Examples of physical acts that can arise from domestic violence include punching, hitting, slapping, or shoving. However, it could extend to other patterns of abusive behavior, like threats of violence. 

When a defendant is charged with a domestic violence offense, the bail commissioner and/or the court has the power to impose restrictive bail conditions, including:

1. Restricting a defendant's contact with the alleged victim and
2. Requiring the defendant to leave the family home.

People subject to bail conditions in these cases are also often prohibited from owning or possessing firearms and dangerous weapons and/or using or possessing alcohol. However, our lawyers can file motions to redetermine or amend those bail conditions, if appropriate.

Domestic violence charges can be dropped. However, it is important to understand that the charges will not be dropped only because the alleged victim no longer wants to "press charges." Charges are brought by the prosecution, not by the alleged victim. That said, if the alleged victim recants, then that may create doubt about the original allegations and prove helpful to the defense.

A person can defend against a domestic violence charge in Maine. However, the specific defenses available to a defendant will depend on the circumstances of their case. Please read on for more information about these defenses.

Potential Penalties for Violent Crimes in Maine

The classification of a violent crime as a felony or misdemeanor usually depends on the level of injury caused to the alleged victim or the defendant's prior convictions for similar conduct. The penalties for violent crimes include but are not limited to:

• Imprisonment;
• Probation;
• Fines; and
• Rehabilitation or treatment classes.

Offenders can also be required to pay restitution to the victim. Given the repercussions of violent crimes and the need for general deterrence, a conviction for a violent crime can often result in a lengthy period of imprisonment.

More consequences, however, flow from a conviction aside from the sentence. These are known as "collateral consequences," which can include the loss of the right to own and use a firearm. A conviction for a domestic violence offense, in particular, can have a long-lasting impact on many aspects of a defendant's personal life, including their personal relationships and parental rights.

A skilled criminal defense lawyer in Maine can help you defend against violent crime charges. Depending on your circumstances, this could mean dismissal, reduced charges, a plea deal, or an acquittal. If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can also help you minimize the sentence and manage the collateral consequences of a conviction.

Defenses in Maine to a Violent Crime Charge

The defenses available to a defendant will depend on the circumstances of their case. 

• Self-defense or defense of others: This defense is used when a defendant assaults or kills another person in defense of themselves or someone else. The circumstances may legally justify the defendant's use of force, if it was reasonable and proportionate. 
• Lack of evidence: The prosecution may fail to present sufficient evidence to prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
• False allegations: The victim may have lied about what happened.
• Lack of intent: Some violent crimes require the prosecution to establish that the defendant intended to commit the act. In the absence of criminal intent, a defendant may be able to defend against a violent crime allegation. For example, if a defendant was intoxicated or mentally incapacitated at the time of the offense, or accidentally caused the injury, they could argue that the case lacks the intent needed for criminal conviction. 

3 Reasons Why You Need a Defense Attorney

Getting charged with a violent crime can turn your life upside down. Here are three important reasons you need a violent crimes defense attorney in Maine:

1. Plea Deals. Many alleged violent crimes offenders may be tempted to take the first plea deal, but if you are doing this on your own or with an inexperienced lawyer, that plea deal may actually work against you. You want a plea deal that benefits you. As it is, plea deals are not always your best option. So, you need a lawyer who can negotiate and pursue the best course of action for you.
2. Honest Advice. Violent crimes are serious accusations. A conviction can really impact your life. Your reputation, personal relationships, job, and quite possibly your freedom are on the line. You need someone who will be candid and help you make smart moves as opposed to knee-jerk reactions.
3. Full Picture. A prosecutor will not give you the whole scoop of what could or will happen, especially if you take a plea deal without representation. Also, the prosecutor will not tell you the extent and quality of the evidence they have against you, and you may not even know to ask. A lawyer gets the information and lays out the whole picture for you, identifying and explaining everything you need to know and how all options could potentially impact your life. And often, a defense lawyer will work with a private investigator to gather information that the police neglected.

Contact Our Defense Lawyers Today

Given their potentially catastrophic consequences, violent crimes, including domestic violence, attract some of the harshest consequences. If you have been accused of committing a violent crime, you should speak to a defense attorney at the Law Offices of Dylan Boyd. 

Our experienced attorneys will review your case and explain your options, including any legal defenses that may be available to you. They can also help you prepare a strong defense and ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process. Call (207) 536-7147 or submit an online form today to schedule a consultation about your case.