An Overview Of The Maine Judicial System Like other states, Maine’s judicial system has its own guidelines to handle various levels of crime. Divided into civil and criminal, Maine’s laws are divided into civil and criminal, then separated according to classes. Class A, B, and C crimes are considered felonies (Class A being the most severe), and Class D and E crimes are considered misdemeanors. The severity of the crime and punishment correspond with the class, however a judge may alter the punishment.
Prison/Jail Sentence
Fines
Class A
Up to 40 years
Up to $50,000
Class B
Up to 10 years
Up to $20,000
Class C
Up to 5 years
Up to $5,000
Class D
Up to 1 year
Up to $2,000
Class E
Up to 6 months
Up to $1,000
Felonies
Misdemeanors
If you have any questions or concerns about the types of cases that actually head into court in Maine, you should refer to the Judicial Branch Citizen’s Guide. This guide was published to help citizens and is available online and in the administrative offices at the courts.
Civil Violations Civil violations are not as severe and generally do not require jail time. Fines are considered compensation and not punishment and are measured in terms of money, property, or other sanctions (but if a person fails to pay the fine, additional fines, fees, and/or penalties may be applied). However, a civil matter may not keep its classification if it is brought to court with additional violations of the law. If a criminal law is found to have been violated, a conviction would carry the classification’s punishments. Maine does not impose the death penalty.