Maine has four classes of felony offenses. Murder, Class A felony, Class B felony, and Class C felony.
Murder charges in Maine are a felony class of their own. Maine does not distinguish between premeditated (1st degree) or non-premeditated (2nd degree murder. A murder conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison. Maine does not have the death penalty. Murder sentences are not eligible for probation.
Class A felony charges generally carry a maximum penalty of up to 30 years in prison, $50,000 fine, and 4 years of probation. Some Class A charges, such as gross sexual assault on a child under 12 years of age, or aggravated attempt murder, have a maximum sentence of life in prison. Longer periods of probation are also available for sex offense and domestic convictions.
Class B felony charges have a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison, $20,000 fine, and 3 years of probation, except for certain domestic and sexual assault convictions which can carry a longer period of probation..
Class C felony charges are the lowest level felony charges in Maine. The maximum sentences for these offenses are up to 5 years in prison, a $5000 fine and 2 years of probation, except for domestic and sexual assault convictions which can carry a longer period of probation.
A felony conviction carries a life-time prohibition on owning or possessing a firearm under federal law. Other collateral consequences exist for felony convictions, which can include loss of government benefits, and travel to other countries (such as Canada) to name a few.