Stand Your Ground in Maine
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Maine has no explicit stand-your-ground statute but recognizes no duty to retreat in self-defense cases.
How Maine treats Stand Your Ground
Maine does not codify stand-your-ground as a named doctrine, but Maine common law and jury instructions recognize that a person has no duty to retreat before using reasonable force in self-defense. You may use force, including deadly force, if you reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent death or serious bodily harm. Maine courts apply this principle across all locations where you have a legal right to be.
The general definition of Stand Your Ground
A law allowing a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves without a duty to retreat.
Stand your ground laws permit a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves against a threat without first trying to escape or avoid the danger. These laws eliminate the traditional legal duty to retreat before using force. They apply in places where a person has a legal right to be, such as their home, workplace, or public spaces. Stand your ground laws are controversial because they expand when people can legally use deadly force, and they vary significantly by state.
Read the full Stand Your Ground entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Maine.