Criminal Defense in Maine

Maine ( ME)

Average: $7,000

Last Updated: Mar 2026

Low Estimate

$2,000

Simple / Uncontested Cases

Average Cost

                        $7,000                    
Typical
                        Criminal Defense Case
                    

High Estimate

$35,000

Complex / Contested Cases

Cost Component	Low	Average	High
Attorney Hourly Rate	$175/hr	$260/hr	$400/hr
Total Cost Estimate	$2,000	$7,000	$35,000
Court Filing Fee	$250

What to Know About Criminal Defense Costs in Maine

Maine classifies crimes as Classes A-E and does not use traditional felony/misdemeanor labels. Defense costs $2,000-$5,000 for lower-class crimes to $7,000-$35,000 for Class A crimes. Maine has relatively progressive criminal justice policies. Drug courts operate in several counties.

Sources: State criminal code, Clio Legal Trends 2025, State Bar Association (ME)