Criminal and Juvenile Law

Criminal Defense

Being charged with a crime can be scary and being convicted of a crime can have life-long consequences. When hiring RW criminal defense attorneys, we strive to be understanding of your fears and vigorous in your defense. Our attorneys have firsthand experience guiding clients through investigations, jury trials, appeals, sentencing and collateral consequences such as driving and firearm restrictions. RW attorneys can effectively advocate for you, regardless of the allegations and are always prepared to take a case to trial when necessary.

If you think you need legal counsel, don’t wait to contact us. Let us inform you of your options and ensure your rights are protected from the earliest point. There is no point that is too early to get advice from a criminal defense attorney to protect yourself.

Areas of Criminal Defense Practice:

  • Operating Under the Influence
  • Driving Offenses
  • Probation Violations or Modifications
  • Domestic Violence Defense
  • Drug Possession & Trafficking
  • Misdemeanors & Felonies

Juvenile Law

A juvenile case starts with a complaint filed by the police and review of the complaint by a Juvenile Community Corrections Officer (JCCO). The JCCO reviews the complaint and makes a recommendation to the District Attorney to press charges against the juvenile or to have the juvenile engage in an “informal adjustment.” An informal adjustment does not make its way into Court if the juvenile engages with the JCCO, follows recommendations of the JCCO, and is successful. However, this determination could change or be modified by the JCCO.

Juvenile cases in Maine differ immensely from adult cases and often involve a restorative element as well as developing a defense and a readiness to proceed to trial when necessary. RW attorneys are thoughtful in their approach to juvenile cases, familiar with resources available to juveniles and their families and prepared to litigate complex motions. RW attorneys are both methodical in settlement negotiations and well versed in trial strategy. We understand the dynamics between juvenile law and educational consequences and can assist in navigating those challenges.

Any time a juvenile has contact with law enforcement, the risks of being charged with a juvenile crime increase. Don’t second guess whether your child needs representation, call us immediately to mitigate the risks at the earliest opportunity.

Juvenile Rights in School

A juvenile case, even at the onset, can have significant educational consequences. In certain situations, a school may choose to pursue disciplinary action on their own for juvenile conduct that occurred on or off school grounds. Disciplinary action could range from suspension to expulsion.

In Maine, school boards have authority to suspend and expel students. However, suspensions and expulsions must follow State and Federal law, as well as the United States constitution. A hearing in front of a school board is serious and students have important constitutional rights and are guaranteed due process throughout disciplinary proceedings.

  • The student must be advised of the charges against him or her;
  • The student must be informed of the nature of the evidence against him or her;
  • The student must be given an opportunity to be heard in his or her own defense;
  • The student must not be punished except on the basis of substantial evidence;
  • The student must be permitted the assistance of a lawyer;
  • The student must be permitted to confront and cross-examine the witnesses against him or her; and
  • The student has the right to a hearing before an impartial tribunal.

When faced with a disciplinary proceeding, the consequences can have serious repercussions. RW attorneys are experienced in juvenile law, criminal law, and school disciplinary proceedings—a unique combination that aids in our approach to handling juvenile representation.

Areas of Juvenile Practice:

  • Juvenile Misdemeanors and Felonies
  • Juvenile Driving Offenses
  • Informal Adjustment Management and Risk Reduction
  • School Disciplinary Proceedings