OUI Rights in Maine: Two Secrets
Whether this is your first arrest or your fiftieth, being detained for OUI in Maine can be a nerve-racking mess. You have the right to a preliminary hearing, and this is important if ever you’re arrested for OUI in Maine or any other state. This hearing should take place within ten days of your arrest.
Here are some other secrets:
The officer has the right to order you out of your car, but not the right to search it
Do not consent to any searches, and if you’re ordered out of your car, it is important that you lock the doors behind you. Also, you should respectfully refuse to answer any questions. You will only raise suspicion and push the police officer to probe or question you further if you answer some questions, but not others.
Always check with a lawyer before pleading guilty or agreeing to a plea bargain
There may be some legal options that your lawyer can pursue. Keep in mind that if you were arrested at a sobriety checkpoint, the court generally permits the evidence, but only if conducted properly. The police closely monitor vehicles approaching the checkpoint, so you won’t have much success trying to evade it.
When it comes to OUI in Maine, knowing and applying your rights when pulled over can enhance your odds of avoiding being taken into custody and also give your lawyer a much easier case to work with if you are charged.