Maine Concealed Weapon Charges

Maine is a “shall-issue” state, which means concealed weapons permits can be issued to qualified residents and non-residents. An application must be submitted to the municipal officers, the town councilors, or the Chief of Police. Before a permit will be issued, the individual must be able to pass a federal background check and be deemed to be of good moral character. All carry permits will be valid for a period of four years, and license holders are allowed to have a handgun concealed in their motor vehicle.

Maine Weapons Laws

Individuals who have a concealed weapons permit in Maine are still prohibited from carrying a handgun in the following areas:

• Onto the premises of any licensed establishment that posts a sign prohibiting firearms
• On any public school property or a community college that has a policy prohibiting weapons
• Any place where a strike is in progress or a labor dispute is underway
• Any courthouse facility
• Any place prohibited by federal law

New legislation concerning concealed weapons has been introduced by Representative Dale Crafts as of March 2011. If the bill gets passed, it would allow people to carry a concealed weapon without a permit except in certain designated places.

Maine Concealed Weapons Violations

It is legal in Maine to openly carry a handgun, but the following are the penalties for concealed weapons violations:

Plea Options When Facing Criminal Charges

An individual charged with a misdemeanor offense is entitled to a trial by either a judge or jury. However, the defendant is not eligible for a public defender if he or she cannot afford legal counsel. The majority of criminal cases end up with the defendant accepting a plea bargain in exchange for a lesser punishment. Individuals who truly believe the charges are unjust should enter a plea of “not guilty” and prepare for a trial.

Consult a Maine Criminal Defense Attorney

Being arrested and charged with a crime can be overwhelming. Most people unfamiliar with the criminal justice system may not be aware of their rights. This is why it’s important to hire a criminal defense lawyer who can provide expert legal advice and defend you against these charges.