The ACLU of Maine seeks to end excessively harsh criminal law policies that disproportionately affect poor people and people of color and stand in the way of a just and equal society. We are working to reform police practices, the indigent defense system, disproportionate sentencing and government abuse of authority in the name of fighting crime, as well as drug laws that have failed to improve public safety and health and have put an unprecedented number of people behind bars.
Criminal Legal Reform
Smith v. Aroostook County
November 5, 2018Smith v. Fitzpatrick, et al.
July 26, 2018Ali v. Long Creek, et al.
March 14, 2018
Threatening the Right to Assemble
January 3, 2024Expunging Past Cannabis Possession Charges
January 3, 2024Requiring Police Patrols Without Reason
January 3, 2024
Imprisoning People Who Qualify for Medical Care
January 3, 2024Implementing Alternatives to Youth Incarceration
January 3, 2024Banning Property Ownership Based on National Origin and Expanding Police Powers
January 3, 2024
The Latest

Weekly Highlights: March 17 – 21
March 21, 2025
ACT: Ask Lawmakers to Uphold the Right to a Speedy Trial

What a Landmark Ruling Means for Public Defense in Maine
March 7, 2025
Court Orders Maine to Provide Counsel and Create Plan to End...
March 7, 2025
Weekly Highlights: March 3 – 7
March 7, 2025
ACLU Urges Lawmakers to Support Speedy Trial Protections
March 3, 2025
Want to be a Good Samaritan in Maine? Be Careful What Words You Use.
February 28, 2025
Know Your Rights: 100 Mile Border Zone
February 20, 2025