Proven results: Securing justice and maximum compensation for our clients

To give you an idea of our commitment, here are some of our case results:

• $15 million in a fatal trucking accident case
• $6 million in a fatal auto accident case
• $1.5 million in a second-floor fall accident case
• $1.05 million in a dangerous drug case

We work tirelessly to secure maximum compensation for our clients and hold negligent parties accountable.

Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Each case is different and case results referred to in this website are not intended to be, nor should they be understood as, a representation that equivalent results will be achieved in any given case.

We use our local knowledge of Maine courts to your advantage

Our attorneys bring decades of combined experience representing injury victims throughout Maine, giving us deep familiarity with the state’s laws, court system, and claims process. Personal injury cases are shaped by Maine-specific legal rules—from filing deadlines under the state’s statute of limitations to the way fault is evaluated under Maine’s comparative negligence law. Our team understands how these laws affect your case and builds strategies that protect your right to pursue compensation.

We also have extensive experience navigating Maine’s state court system. From local district courts to the Maine Superior Court, we know the procedures, expectations, and timelines that can influence how a case moves forward. Our familiarity with court personnel, filing requirements, and local practices allows us to move cases efficiently while avoiding unnecessary delays.

In addition to litigation, we guide clients through the statewide injury claim process from start to finish. Whether your case involves negotiating with insurance companies, gathering evidence to support your claim, or preparing for trial if necessary, we handle every stage with a strategic approach. Our goal is to make the legal process clearer and less stressful while positioning your case for the strongest possible outcome.

What kind of personal injury claims can we handle in Maine?

At Shaheen & Gordon, we have experience representing clients in a wide range of personal injury claims, including:

• Car accidents: From rural roads to busy highways, we secure justice for victims of negligent drivers.
• Bicycle and pedestrian accidents: We advocate for cyclists and pedestrians injured due to reckless drivers.
• Slip-and-fall accidents: When property hazards cause injuries, we hold negligent property owners accountable.
• Construction accidents: From falling debris to unsafe scaffolding, we represent injured workers.
• Medical malpractice: We help victims of substandard care recover damages for their injuries.
• Wrongful death: We support families seeking justice after losing a loved one due to negligence.
• Nursing home abuse: We protect vulnerable seniors and hold negligent facilities accountable for neglect, mistreatment, and abuse.

Understanding the types of damages available in Maine personal injury cases

In Maine, personal injury victims may recover two main types of damages:

1. Economic damages

Tangible losses with measurable value, including:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning potential
• Property damage
• Travel and in-home care expenses

2. Non-economic damages

Compensation for intangible losses, such as:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress (e.g., anxiety, PTSD)
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Scarring and disfigurement

How the Maine personal injury claim process works

After an accident, many people are unsure what happens next or how a personal injury claim actually moves forward. While every case is unique, most personal injury claims in Maine follow a similar process. Understanding these steps can help you feel more prepared and confident as your case progresses.

1. Investigation and case evaluation

The process typically begins with a thorough investigation of the accident. Your attorney gathers evidence such as police reports, medical records, witness statements, photographs, and any available video footage. This stage is critical for determining who was responsible for the accident and establishing how the injury has affected your life.

In Maine, fault plays an important role in personal injury cases because the state follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the accident. Building strong evidence early helps protect your claim and clearly establish liability.

2. Filing an insurance claim

Most personal injury cases begin with an insurance claim. Your attorney will notify the appropriate insurance company and submit documentation supporting your claim, including proof of medical treatment, lost wages, and other damages.

Insurance companies often conduct their own investigation and may attempt to minimize the value of your claim. Having an attorney manage communication with insurers helps ensure that statements or documents provided do not harm your case.

3. Negotiation and settlement discussions

Once the full extent of your damages is understood, your attorney will present a demand for compensation to the insurance company. Negotiations may take place over weeks or months as both sides work toward a fair settlement.

Many personal injury claims in Maine are resolved at this stage. A settlement can allow you to receive compensation without the time and uncertainty of a trial. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount, further legal action may be necessary.

4. Filing a lawsuit if necessary

If negotiations do not lead to a reasonable settlement, your attorney may file a personal injury lawsuit in Maine’s court system. Depending on the circumstances and the amount of damages involved, the case may be filed in Maine District Court or Superior Court.

It is important to note that Maine law generally provides a six-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Filing within this timeframe is essential to preserving your right to seek compensation.

5. Discovery and Case Preparation

After a lawsuit is filed, both sides enter a stage called discovery. During this phase, attorneys exchange information, request documents, and take depositions from witnesses, medical professionals, and others involved in the case.

This process allows both sides to evaluate the strength of the evidence and often leads to additional settlement discussions before trial.

6. Settlement or Trial

Many cases settle before reaching the courtroom. However, if a fair agreement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial, which an experienced personal injury attorney in Maine will be able to guide you through. At trial, a judge or jury will hear the evidence and determine whether the defendant is liable and what compensation should be awarded.

Throughout the entire process, having an experienced personal injury attorney can make a significant difference. A lawyer can guide you through each step, handle complex legal procedures, and advocate for the compensation you deserve under Maine law.

Shaheen & Gordon is dedicated to your recovery and committed to justice

An experienced Maine accident attorney can offer unparalleled legal representation paired with a personalized approach. We understand the challenges injury victims face and are dedicated to helping you recover physically, emotionally, and financially.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, contact Shaheen & Gordon today for a free consultation. Together, we’ll fight for your rights and the justice you deserve.

We answer common questions about personal injury accidents in Maine

How much does hiring a Maine personal injury attorney cost?

At Shaheen & Gordon, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay legal fees unless we win your case. We also offer free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your options and help you feel confident moving forward.

What should I do immediately after an accident?

1. Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a professional.
2. Document the scene: Take photos, gather contact information, and report the incident to local authorities.
3. Contact an attorney: Speak with a Maine personal injury lawyer from Shaheen & Gordon to protect your rights and understand your options.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim?

In Maine, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is six years (Title 14 § 752). However, certain circumstances, such as claims involving minors or government entities, may have different deadlines. Contact us as soon as possible to ensure you meet all necessary filing requirements.

Do I have to go to court for a personal injury case?

Not necessarily. In some cases, a personal injury claim may be resolved through negotiations between the parties involved without the need for a formal lawsuit. However, if an agreement cannot be reached, or if the other party disputes liability or the extent of damages, a lawsuit may be necessary. Starting a lawsuit requires a visit to the court to file it, but even that does not guarantee that the case will go to trial.

What if I was partially at fault for my personal injury accident?

Maine follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can recover damages as long as you’re less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.