Maine is among the states that take a hard line against fake identification, and anyone caught using or possessing a fake ID may face severe consequences. The state has various laws that criminalize the production, distribution, sale, possession, and use of fake IDs.

If you are caught using a fake ID in Maine, you may end up with a criminal record that could harm your future prospects, including employment, education, and housing opportunities. In this article, we will discuss the Maine fake ID charges and penalties and what to do if you are charged.

Maine Laws on Fake ID

Maine Revised Statute Title 29-A, section 2412 is the primary law that deals with the use of false identification in the state. The statute makes it illegal for anyone to:

• Possess a fake ID or any other false identification document.

• Use a fake ID with the intention of deceiving the police, a public official, or any other person.

• Allow another person to use your ID knowingly.

• Make, produce, distribute, sell, or transfer a fake ID with the intention of committing fraud or deceiving someone.

• Modify or alter a valid ID card to make it appear like a fake ID.

Maine law enforcement agencies and prosecutors take fake ID charges seriously, and they work extra hard to keep the state safe and secure. If you are caught using a fake ID or possessing one, you risk facing severe legal consequences.

Penalties for Fake ID in Maine

The penalties for using, possessing, or making a fake ID in Maine depend on the severity of the offense, the offender’s criminal history, and other factors such as the offender’s age. Some of the common punishments for fake ID offenses in Maine include:

• Civil Penalties: Under Maine law, individuals convicted of using a fake ID may face a civil fine of up to $500. The court may also order the offender to perform community service, attend alcohol and drug awareness programs, or participate in any other diversion program that the court deems fit.

• Criminal Penalties: If you are caught using a fake ID with the intent to deceive someone, you may face criminal charges in Maine. The offense is a Class E misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, up to 6 months in jail, or both.

• Felony Charges: If you make, produce, distribute, sell, or transfer a fake ID in Maine with the intent to deceive someone or commit fraud, you may face felony charges. The offense is a Class C felony, punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, up to 5 years in jail, or both.

In addition to these penalties, using a fake ID also carries social consequences that could stay with you long after you complete your sentence. You could lose your driving privileges, be barred from entering certain establishments, or be denied employment opportunities that require a clean criminal record.

Defenses for Fake ID Charges in Maine

If you are facing fake ID charges in Maine, it is crucial to seek legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney. Your lawyer will review your case and identify possible defenses that could either reduce your sentence or get the charges dismissed altogether. Some of the common defenses for fake ID charges in Maine include:

• Lack of Intent: The prosecution must prove that you knew you were using a fake ID or possessing one with the intent of deceiving someone. If your lawyer can show that you lacked the intent to commit fraud or deceive someone, you may have a viable defense against the charges.

• Entrapment: If the police or any other law enforcement officer coerced or lured you into using a fake ID, you could use the entrapment defense to get the charges dismissed.

• Mistaken Identity: If someone else used your ID without your knowledge, you could use the mistaken identity defense to challenge the charges. Your lawyer may use forensic evidence, such as DNA or fingerprints analysis, to prove that you were not involved in the crime.

• Duress: If someone threatened you or put you under duress to use a fake ID, you could use the defense in court. However, you must prove that the threats or coercion were severe enough to make it impossible for you to refuse to use the fake ID.

Final Thoughts

Maine fake ID charges should not be taken lightly, as they could have long-lasting impacts on your future prospects. Therefore, if you are facing any fake ID charges, you should contact a skilled criminal defense attorney immediately to review your case and prepare a defense strategy. Your lawyer will help you understand your legal options and work hard to help you avoid the harsh penalties that come with these charges.