If you’ve been arrested for operating under the influence (OUI) in Maine, you’re likely facing uncertainty, fear, and serious consequences. At Shaheen & Gordon, a Maine OUI attorney is here to guide you through this stressful time and aggressively defend your legal rights. With decades of combined experience, our team has built a reputation for relentless advocacy, legal precision, and a deep understanding of Maine’s criminal justice system.
We know your driver’s license isn’t just a convenience—it’s essential to your livelihood, family responsibilities, and independence. A conviction for OUI can create a criminal record, license suspension, fines, and possible jail time. That’s why we act fast, fight hard, and tailor our defense strategy to your specific case. Call us now at (800) 451-1002.
Why choose our Maine OUI defense team?
At Shaheen & Gordon, we’re not just experienced in criminal law—we’re also specifically experienced in OUI defense. Our team understands the science and strategies behind police investigations and use that insight to challenge the allegations against you.
What makes us different?
- Field sobriety test training: We know the procedures law enforcement uses and the steps they often overlook. This helps us undermine the reliability of the field sobriety tests the State will try to use against you.
- Challenging BAC evidence: We review the evidence to identify errors in breath (BrAC) and blood alcohol content (BAC) testing and challenge unreliable or improperly administered tests.
- Defending drug-related OUIs: Impaired driving isn’t always about alcohol. We have the legal and scientific knowledge to fight OUI cases involving prescription drugs or recreational substances.
- Commercial & underage OUI defense: We have experience defending drivers of all ages—including those under the age of 21, as well as commercial drivers with more at stake.
We have handled hundreds of OUI cases across Maine, and we know how to negotiate with prosecutors, challenge the state’s evidence, and present a compelling case in court.
See what past clients have to say about our firm’s defense attorneys
“I cannot begin to describe how much stress and anxiety you [Attorney Breda] saved me from knowing that I had someone qualified, in my corner fighting for me. I really appreciate the effort on your end and am so thankful with how things ultimately played out. My thanks to Heather as well!”
“[We] are both deeply grateful to you [Attorney Joe Cherniske] for representing our son in his recent legal trouble. The result was significantly better than imagined, and we do not minimize the effort and skill that went into such a favorable outcome. You have the ability to make your work appear effortless, yet there was clearly a significant amount being done behind the scenes. I remember saying to you in our initial conversation that we needed a lawyer who could be both compassionate and tough when necessary, and you assured me you could be that person. We found this to be true in our interactions with you.”
“Tim [Harrington] was always accessible, professional and easy to deal with. This would otherwise have been arduous for me as I had never set foot in a court room. His experience as a defense attorney and prior experience as a County Prosecutor ensured that all procedures were followed and that all discovery evidence was obtained and reviewed […] I am forever grateful for having my reputation saved. A+”
What is classified as an OUI in Maine?
In Maine, operating under the influence (OUI) is the legal term for what many other states call DUI or DWI. You can be charged if a police officer believes you were driving while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both.
- For drivers age 21 and over, a BAC of 0.08% or higher typically results in an OUI charge.
- For drivers under 21, Maine has a special administrative Zero Tolerance Law that prohibits having any measurable amount of alcohol in your body. This results in a one-year license suspension. If you refuse a test, you will lose your license for at least 18 months. If you have a passenger that is under 21 years of age, an additional 180 day suspension will be imposed. If you take a test that shows a BAC of .08 or more, you can be prosecuted in court for the criminal OUI offense.
OUI penalties in Maine
A conviction for OUI in Maine can trigger both criminal and administrative penalties. That includes action from the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) and the court system. Penalties increase with prior convictions or if the case involves aggravating factors.
Potential consequences (minimum court-imposed penalties):
- First Offense:$500 fine + court assessment, and 150 -day license suspension
- Second Offense:7 days in jail, $700 fine + court assessment, and a 3-year license suspension
- Third Offense: 30 days in jail, $1,100 fine + court assessment, and a 6-year suspension
- Fourth Offense: 6 months in jail, $2100 fine + court assessment, and an 8-year license suspension
Aggravating factors can include:
- BAC of .15% or higher
- Exceeding the speed limit by 30 miles per hour or more
- Having a passenger under 21 years of age
- Refusal to submit to chemical testing
- Eluding or attempting to elude an officer
Each of these elements can elevate a standard misdemeanor to a more serious offense—and increase your need for a dui defense team that understands Maine’s OUI laws inside and out.
Taking you through the OUI legal process
If you’ve been arrested for OUI, you may be overwhelmed by the complexity of the legal process. Here’s a brief look at what how things usually go—and how our attorneys can help:
- Initial arrest & booking: Often based on a traffic stop and field sobriety tests, sometimes followed by a breath or blood test.
- BMV license suspension: The BMV may suspend your license immediately unless you request a hearing within 10 days.
- Arraignment: Your first court appearance, where charges are formally presented.
- Discovery & pretrial motions: We obtain and review the evidence and may file motions to suppress unlawfully obtained proof.
- Trial or negotiated plea: If necessary, we go to trial and present your defense before a judge or jury.
Throughout this process, your OUI defense attorney from Shaheen & Gordon will be at your side—challenging the evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, and fighting for your rights.
Schedule a consultation and let us protect your rights
If you’ve been arrested for operating under the influence, every moment counts. Let our experienced criminal defense lawyers take immediate action to protect your future.
Call (800) 451-1002 now or contact us online to schedule a free, confidential consultation with a dedicated Maine OUI attorney.
We answer commonly asked questions about OUIs in Maine
Can I get my license back before my case is resolved?
In some cases, yes. If your license has been suspended by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, you may be eligible for a hardship license or work-restricted license during the suspension period. A Maine OUI attorney can help you petition for reinstatement or defend your right to drive at a BMV hearing.
Do I have to take a breath or blood test if I’m pulled over?
Under Maine’s implied consent law, drivers are required to submit to chemical testing—like a breath or blood test—if a police officer suspects you of impaired driving. Refusing can result in an automatic license suspension and may be used as evidence in court. However, refusal does not guarantee a conviction, and our attorneys can often challenge the circumstances of the refusal.
What happens if I was charged with OUI while taking prescription drugs?
You can still face an OUI charge even if the medication was legally prescribed. The key issue is whether your ability to drive was impaired. Prescription drug OUIs are increasingly common and require a defense attorney who understands both the science and the law behind these complex cases.
Will an OUI conviction affect my insurance rates?
Yes. A conviction for drunk driving or impaired driving can significantly increase your auto insurance premiums—or even lead to policy cancellation. This financial impact is one reason it’s critical to consult an experienced OUI defense attorney before pleading guilty or accepting a deal.
