As an established firm with a team of diverse attorneys, we have the knowledge and experience to successfully represent a wide variety of legal matters. Some of our most common cases involve criminal defense, divorce and family law issues, injury claims, and commercial law. However, you’ll also find that our team has specialized knowledge of many less common legal matters, like Attorney Smith’s extensive experience with federal endangered species litigation.
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Maine Trial Lawyers
STANDING UP FOR YOU
“Steve is no-nonsense with a lot of experience who tells you like it is and does not waste time or your money.” John H.
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Areas Of Practice
From business formation to contract disputes, our attorneys help business owners protect and grow their companies through comprehensive legal services. Whether you are a one-person sole proprietorship or a multi-location corporation, we can handle your legal needs.
Hiring the right lawyer is critical to the outcome of any criminal case. Our team has considerable experience defending against criminal charges, including federal crimes, and we will negotiate aggressively with the prosecutor to reduce or eliminate the charges against you.
Violations of the Endangered Species Act, including keeping federally protected animals as pets, can carry serious consequences. Attorney Steve Smith is one of very few lawyers nationwide with experience defending against criminal charges under this statute.
A well-designed estate plan does more than protect your property and assets after your passing. It also helps ensure that your medical and financial needs are handled according to your wishes while you’re still alive. We’re honored to help families plan for a more secure future.
Divorce and child custody issues are often highly emotional, and you need a knowledgeable, compassionate advocate to guide you through the process with a clear, focused approach that protects your children and your ability to move on successfully.
The pain of being seriously injured is often followed by anger when you realize that your injuries were caused by negligent, reckless behavior, and your pain could have been prevented. When this happens, we help hold the responsible party accountable for their actions.
We assist clients with all manner of real estate and property transactions. From complex residential property to developing subdivisions, condominiums, and retail spaces, we have the experience to handle all legal issues related to buying or selling real estate in Maine.
Being accused of a sex crime can impact your life in many ways. Our lawyers are highly experienced in sex crime litigation, including accusations that arise from family law cases. We will help you navigate this sensitive issue and build the best case possible.
I Need Legal Help WHAT SHOULD
I DO NOW ?
Legal challenges can be stressful and frightening. Our team is here for you at every step.
Call Us NOW
No matter what type of legal issue you are facing, seeking professional assistance right away is important for achieving the best possible outcome. An attorney can help you preserve potential evidence, ensure that you meet all deadlines, and help you prepare for any court appearances.
Investigate
Our attorneys will explore every reasonable option to resolve your case quickly and to your satisfaction. We draw on our diverse experience and deep knowledge of Maine and federal laws to negotiate favorable settlements and help keep our clients out of court, or worse, jail.
Stand Firm
We do not shy away from difficult or controversial cases. While we prefer to settle through negotiations, we will not hesitate to defend your rights and best interests in court if necessary. Our trial attorneys are highly experienced in successfully representing cases before state, federal, and appellate courts.
Previous Case Outcomes
GROSS SEXUAL ASSAULT
Result: Case Dismissed Due to Testimony
Our client was a 16-year-old boy accused by his 16-year-old girlfriend of gross sexual assault. Although the authorities had not expressed an interest, she, through her mother, brought a protection order in state court apparently in an effort by the parents to sue the parents of our client civilly. Testimony showed that the encounter between them was entirely consensual and contrary to her sworn statement was not the first time that these two kids had engaged in sexual activity. The case against our client was dismissed.
PROTECTION ORDER FOR STALKING
Result: Case Dismissed Due to Plaintiff’s Credibility
Our client was accused in a protection order case of stalking a woman for no apparent reason. The sworn affidavit of the Plaintiff made disturbing allegations that our client was following her, pounding on her door, and screaming at her for no apparent reason. Steve Smith, through cross-examination, was able to show that the Plaintiff left out of her story that our client was accompanying her adult son and that the Plaintiff was attempting to deny her child’s father his rightfully court-ordered contact. Her credibility was thus impeached, and the case was dismissed.
GROSS SEXUAL ASSAULT
Result: Favorable Plea Bargain with Short Sentence
Because of his expertise in sex crime defense and statewide practice, Steve Smith was asked to defend a client who was accused of gross sexual assault in Machias. Although the Defendant was a repeat offender with a prior conviction for child pornography, Steve took the case to the day of jury selection. After learning that certain key witnesses of the State were having previously undisclosed problems, Steve struck a favorable plea bargain which allowed the Defendant to be released within a few months.
SEXUAL ASSAULT
Result: Probation with No Jail Time
Defendant was charged with 40 counts of sexual assault against two minors which took place over 30 years ago. Of note was that one of the victims was a convicted murderer. After over a year of litigating the case and demonstrating the weaknesses of the case to the prosecution, Steve was able to obtain a result in which the client served no jail time and was able to return to his home state subject only to probation.
GROSS SEXUAL ASSAULT & UNLAWFUL SEXUAL CONTACT
Result: Under Advisement of the Law Court
On September 11, 2018, Steve argued before the Law Court in the case of State v. AJ. Steve tried AJ’s case in 2017 and although AJ was charged with both gross sexual assault and unlawful sexual contact, after a 3-day long jury trial, AJ was acquitted of the most serious charges. However, the jury found him guilty of simple assault and unlawful sexual contact. Steve appealed the case to the Maine Supreme Judicial Court and argued that the admission of a sexual assault kit, otherwise known as a SANE Kit, generated by the hospital was a report generated for police purposes, as opposed to medical purposes. This is a case of first impression in Maine, the Law Court has taken the matter under advisement.
Steps of the LEGAL PROCESS
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01
Demand Letter
The first step in most business or commercial law actions is to clearly communicate and document the dispute with the other party, often through a demand letter. If needed, our attorneys can help you prepare and send a demand letter.
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02
Complaint
If the demand letter does not work in resolving the dispute to your satisfaction, filing a complaint with the appropriate court is usually the next step. Our team can help you determine where and how to file.
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03
Answer Or Default
In most cases, the defendant has 20 days to file an answer to your complaint, which may include the defendant’s alleged defense to your claims. If no answer is filed, you will likely receive a default judgment.
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04
Discovery
Our team will work to collect all information and evidence relevant to your case, a process called discovery. This begins as soon as we take on your case but moves into high gear once the answer and any possible defenses have been filed.
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05
Negotiation Or Mediation
Armed with the facts, our skilled attorneys will negotiate with the defendant and their legal team to reach a favorable settlement on your behalf. In some situations, mediation may be appropriate or possibly required by the court.
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06
Settlement Or Trial
Most business law cases are able to settle outside of court, avoiding the time and cost of a trial. However, if going to court is necessary to defend your interests, our experienced litigators are ready to fight for you at every step.
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07
Enforcement Or Appeal
All parties must comply with the terms of the settlement or court order. If the defendant does not comply, we can help you explore legal options for enforcement. When necessary, we can also help appeal unfavorable decisions.
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01
Pre-Arrest
When police believe illegal activity has occurred, they begin an investigation. This involves collecting evidence, obtaining search warrants, and interviewing witnesses. For some allegations, blood or urine samples may be requested.
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Arrest
If police think enough evidence exists to make an arrest, they may ask a judge to issue an arrest warrant or simply take the suspect into custody. Police must have probable cause, as determined by evidence from the investigation, to make an arrest.
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03
Arraignment
The defendant’s first appearance in front of a judge is often called an arraignment, though the exact process will depend on the type of charges. During this first appearance, the defendant is made aware of the charges and enters their plea.
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04
Pre-Trial
During the discovery, or pre-trial phase, your attorney and the opposing counsel will exchange information about the case. Pre-trial motions may also be entered, like requesting that charges are dropped, or evidence is excluded.
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05
Trial
We work hard to settle clients’ cases without going to trial. But if a trial is necessary to defend you, our team will not shy away from a fight. After each side presents its case at trial, a judge or jury will decide if the defendant is guilty.
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06
Sentencing
Defendants who plead guilty or are found guilty will be given a sentence that the court feels is appropriate based on the circumstances of the crime and the defendant’s criminal history, among other factors.
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Appeals
A guilty verdict isn’t necessarily the end of your case. In many situations, our defense attorneys can help you appeal your conviction or sentence if there is evidence that the police, court, or jury acted inappropriately.
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01
Assign Health Care Agent
If you become incapacitated and cannot make healthcare decisions for yourself, your health care agent, usually a loved one or close friend, will have the authority to make decisions on your behalf.
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02
Select Financial Agent
Your financial agent can make certain financial and legal decisions on your behalf if you are unable to handle these matters. Powers given to the financial agent vary but may include overseeing bank accounts, a business, or legal claims.
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03
Inventory Assets
Creating a complete and detailed list of your property, assets, and accounts can help you make decisions about how to handle these items after your passing. This list will also help your attorney determine the best options for your estate.
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04
Identify Beneficiaries
The individuals who will receive your assets are known as beneficiaries. By leaving clear and specific instructions for how to divide your property, you can help avoid confusion or conflict among your loved ones.
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05
Formalize Estate Plan
To make your final wishes legally binding, you must create an estate transfer plan, usually a will or trust, using estate planning documents that adhere to Maine’s requirements, and have these documents notarized.
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06
Secure Documents
It is critical to keep the original copies of your estate plan in a safe and secure place. It can also be helpful to give copies to your beneficiaries and make sure they know where to find the original when needed.
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07
Update Plan as Needed
An estate plan is not something you can “set and forget.” As your relationships and property change over time, it may be necessary to revise your estate plan with an attorney. This is common after a divorce, for example.
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01
File or Receive Complaint
The divorce process officially begins when one spouse completes, serves, and files the appropriate forms. The spouse receiving the forms (being served) will have an opportunity to respond to any claims made.
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02
Financial Disclosure
Both parties are required to file financial disclosure affidavits detailing their assets and debts in order to help the court and the other party make equitable decisions about support and property division issues.
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03
Initial Conference
The parties come together in court for the first time at the Case Management Conference (or, for couples without children, a Pre-Trial Conference). This is a chance for the court to understand what issues, if any, are contested.
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04
Mediation
In Maine, divorcing couples with minor children are required to attend mediation if they cannot agree on parenting and support issues. While participating in mediation is required, reaching an agreement through these talks is not mandatory.
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05
Interim Orders
For contested matters that need to be addressed quickly, like where the children will live or who gets to drive which car, the court may issue interim orders if no agreement is reached in mediation. These apply until the divorce is final.
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06
Hearing
Negotiations will continue, and we will advocate for a fair settlement. But, if necessary, our experienced litigators are prepared to defend your best interests in a divorce hearing, in which the remaining disputes will be decided by a judge.
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Final Order
Once a settlement or divorce decree is reached, a final order is entered in court, which officially ends the marriage. Maine requires a minimum of 60 days from initial filing before a final divorce order can be issued.
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01
Injury Occurs
Not all injuries justify a personal injury claim. If you were hurt by the reckless or negligent actions of another person, organization, or product, you should discuss the possibility of filing an injury claim with a skilled attorney.
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02
Complaint
Injury claims begin by filing a complaint against the responsible party, or defendant. The complaint states the nature of your injuries, why you believe the defendant is liable, and the damages (or compensation) you are seeking.
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03
Discovery
After the defendant replies to the complaint, your lawyer will begin gathering evidence to support your claim, a process called discovery. This may involve requesting and sharing evidence with the opposition, taking statements, or consulting experts.
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04
Pretrial Litigation
Before a trial begins, your attorney may request court orders known as pretrial motions to help move the case along. These can be used to force the other party to share evidence or to request summary judgment to resolve a case quickly.
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05
Negotiations
Your attorney will continue to work with the defendant and their legal team to negotiate a favorable resolution to your claim. We advocate aggressively for the compensation you and your family deserve.
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06
Settlement or Trial
Our goal is to settle claims in the most efficient and favorable way, and often we achieve this through negotiations. However, if no agreement is reached, our experienced litigators will defend your interests in court at a trial.
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07
Collection or Appeal
If you are awarded damages, your attorney will assist you in collecting and distributing the compensation. When appropriate, our attorneys can also help you appeal an unfavorable court settlement.
The process a real estate case follows can vary widely depending on the nature of the issue.
Here are some of the common property issues we handle.
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01
Purchase & Sale
Our firm often represents clients involved in complex or non-standard commercial and residential property transactions in Maine. These can include anything from residential beachfront property to factories and industrial facilities.
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02
Commercial Development
We assist stakeholders in acquiring, managing, and developing commercial property for projects of all sizes and uses. We also work with investors interested in forming a limited liability company for real estate development.
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03
Litigation
When real estate disputes require litigation, our team of aggressive and experienced attorneys is ready to defend your interests, including requesting emergency injunctive relief to prevent the obstruction or destruction of property.
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04
Easement & Boundary Disputes
Disputes may arise over the exact boundary of a property or how shared property may be used. Our lawyers handle a wide variety of boundary and easement matters, from utility access issues to the development of subdivisions.
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05
Financing
With experience in both real estate and commercial law, our firm is well-positioned to represent borrowers and lenders in property transactions, including the coordination of permitting, land-use compliance, and document preparation.
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Condominiums
Our firm assists condominium and homeowners’ association boards, as well as developers and investors, with the legal requirements of condominium formation and management, including financing, by-law issues, and property development.
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Zoning & Permitting
When real estate projects require zoning changes, our attorneys will effectively represent you before the appropriate governing body. We can also assist with acquiring permits and defending clients against permit challenges.
Trusted Attorneys on Your Side
When legal issues complicate your personal or professional life, your top priority is getting help you can rely on, and quickly. If you’re not sure where to turn, contacting a highly respected Maine law firm is a good place to start.
From the first consultation, STEVE SMITH Trial Lawyers will work to ease your stress by providing clear, no-nonsense answers and guidance. Then, we dig deep into the facts and build an iron-clad case that will produce the best outcome possible.
We work with clients of all sizes on a wide range of cases, and many of the people we meet with have never needed an attorney before. We realize how intimidating and stressful it can be to face an unfamiliar and complex process with potentially serious consequences. But you don’t have to do it alone. Our knowledge and experience will give you the confidence to face any legal matter that stands in your way.
Don’t live with uncertainty any longer. Reach out to our office today by phone or using our online contact form to request a case assessment.
Accolades & Awards
“I wish I had retained him sooner, his help has been immeasurable.” – Tim
Stephen “Steve” C. Smith, Esq.
“I am incredibly pleased I hired Steve Smith and Jack Baldacci. They made sure the same thing that happened to us wouldn’t happen to someone else. I highly recommend them.” – Scott
John “Jack” E. Baldacci, Jr., Esq.
“We hired Leah for a family law case and she was so extremely helpful and got me through my case. She’s very professional and takes the time to listen to her clients.” – Carlton
Leah M. Baldacci, Esq.
“Ian was great. Very personable, helpful and informative. I would totally use him again in the future if needed!” – Jen
Ian M. L’Heureux, Esq.
“You guys have been great. All my questions were answered, and everything turned out perfectly in the end. Thank you for all you did.” – Linda
Carl E. Woock, Esq.
What Our Clients Say
I received a copy of my son's appeal prepared by Carl E. Woock. I cannot tell you how relieved I am to read this appeal.…
Has a ton of experience. Knows the court and the other attorney which should be helpful.
He is a wonderful attorney, and I definitely recommend him. Thank you very much for your help & support, Steve!
Contacted me promptly & provided professional & extremely useful info which allowed me to have a better understanding of the legal context of the issue.
A+, very helpful & understanding. I'm sure he could've charged much more. I will go to him again if I ever have a legal issue.
Defending YOUR RIGHTS
For The Outcome You Need
We know that what you want is an attorney who will provide real solutions. Our team’s experience spans nearly all facets of law, including criminal charges, divorce, business disputes, real estate, and more. We are tenacious at overcoming tough legal disputes, and we love a challenge.
To learn more about our services please view our Practice Areas.
Information FAQ | NEWS
Will I Have To Appear In Court For A Criminal Charge?
For criminal matters, Maine allows defendants in many misdemeanor cases to waive their right to appear in court if an attorney appears on their behalf. This can be particularly useful for defendants who live out of state, like those charged with OUI while traveling or attending college. If you’re charged with a felony, you will likely need to appear in court.
Should I Hire An Attorney To Start A Business?
If you’re forming a sole proprietorship and don’t plan to have any employees, you likely won’t need to hire a lawyer. However, if you plan to create a partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation, then the agreements and contracts you create should be reviewed by an attorney to ensure that your interests and rights are protected.
How Long Is The Statute Of Limitations For Injury Cases In Maine?
In Maine, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is six years from the time the injury occurred. After this time has passed, you will most likely lose the right to pursue compensation for your injuries. There are also some important exceptions in which the time limit is shorter, like medical malpractice claims and claims against government entities or employees. This is one of many reasons why it’s best to consult a personal injury attorney as quickly as possible after a preventable injury.
How We CAN HELP
Selecting a law firm to represent you is a decision with serious consequences. So why choose STEVE SMITH Trial Lawyers? We understand the importance of trust.
When you trust us with your legal challenge, you are putting your future in our hands, and we never take that responsibility lightly. We take the time to get to know our clients in order to serve them better, and you will never be treated like just another case.
We live out our commitment to each client through reliable communication, regular case updates, and fierce, compassionate representation. Your goals become our goals. We will investigate, negotiate, and fight back on your behalf so you can get back to doing what matters most.
Our team is ready to listen to your story, lighten your burden, and guide you through any challenge.
CONTACT US
STEVE SMITH Trial Lawyers
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Attorney Advertising. This information is designed for general information only. The information presented should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Past results and testimonials are not a guarantee, warranty, or prediction of the outcome of your case, and should not be construed as such. Past results cannot guarantee future performance. Any result in a single case is not meant to create an expectation of similar results in future matters because each case involves many different factors, therefore, results will differ on a case-by-case basis. By providing certain contact information here in, you are expressly authorizing the recipient of this message to contact you via the methods of communication provided.
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