The Hess Law Firm

For individuals in Lewiston, Maine, facing criminal charges, the need for experienced and aggressive legal representation is paramount. Within the "Lawyers Near Me" category, The Hess Law Firm stands as a distinguished and formidable presence, exclusively dedicated to criminal defense. Located at 217 Main St, Lewiston, ME 04240, USA, and readily accessible by phone at (207) 782-2072, The Hess Law Firm, under the leadership of Attorney George Hess, offers decades of specialized expertise to clients across Maine and in federal courts.

The Hess Law Firm is a premier criminal defense firm, with Attorney George Hess at its helm. George Hess brings over 30 years of experience to his practice, making him a highly seasoned and knowledgeable advocate in the complex world of criminal law. His extensive career as a trial attorney has honed his skills in both legal knowledge and courtroom strategy. He is not only admitted to practice in the District and Superior courts throughout Maine but also in the Federal courts in Portland and Bangor, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit in Boston. This broad jurisdictional reach allows The Hess Law Firm to provide comprehensive defense services for a wide range of criminal charges, regardless of their severity or the court in which they are heard.

The firm specializes in providing "high powered, full service defense" for clients accused of a crime. Their services encompass defending against all types of charges, from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Specific areas of expertise include, but are not limited to:

• OUI/DUI Defense: Representing individuals charged with Operating Under the Influence, a common yet complex area of criminal law in Maine.
• Assaults: Defending against various assault charges, from simple assault to aggravated assault.
• Drug Offenses: Handling cases involving possession, trafficking, and manufacturing of controlled substances.
• Sexual Offenses: Providing defense for sensitive and often highly complex cases involving sexual assault allegations, including computer sex crimes and child pornography.
• Theft and Robbery: Representing clients accused of property crimes.
• Arson: Defending against charges related to setting fires.
• Murder and Other Violent Crimes: Handling the most serious and high-stakes criminal cases, requiring extensive trial experience and strategic defense.

The Hess Law Firm is particularly known for its "effective criminal trial skills and strategies." They approach each case with meticulous investigation and a thorough analysis of both the prosecution's strengths and weaknesses. George Hess, as a trial attorney, and Celeste Daly, as a Trial Consultant, work collaboratively to develop persuasive case themes, gather crucial evidence, and identify witnesses to counteract the prosecution's arguments. They are adept at using experts in various fields, such as forensic science, and employ an excellent private investigator when necessary to build a robust defense. Their experience extends to developing jury questionnaires designed to identify and eliminate potential jurors whose biases might affect impartiality, as exemplified by a case where an entire jury pool was disqualified due to their questionnaire exposing biases.

A key feature of The Hess Law Firm is their commitment to providing honest and direct advice. They are known for telling clients "what you need to hear" rather than "what you want to hear," focusing on optimizing the client's position and minimizing damage. This straightforward approach, combined with a reputation for being thoroughly prepared, ethical, and willing to press a case to trial, often enables them to reach meaningful resolutions without the need for a full trial. However, if a trial is deemed the best defense strategy, clients can rely on George Hess's years of experience and "cutting edge trial strategies" to fight vigorously in the courtroom. His ability to think on the fly and connect with a jury are crucial assets in trial settings, particularly in complex cases like murder trials.

While specific customer reviews were not provided in the prompt, the firm's website and general professional reputation, as indicated by the detailed description of their practices, suggest a highly professional and client-focused environment. Their emphasis on being "nimble and without tunnel vision," capable of interpreting and adapting to new information even on the eve of trial, speaks to a dynamic and proactive approach to defense. The firm's working relationship with prosecutors and their reputation for thorough preparation and ethical conduct are significant advantages in negotiations and courtroom proceedings. They offer complimentary consultations, providing an opportunity for potential clients to discuss their situation and understand how The Hess Law Firm can assist them, emphasizing that "Experience Matters."

In terms of promotional information, The Hess Law Firm prominently features George Hess's extensive experience of over 30 years and his track record as a trial lawyer. They highlight his membership in prestigious organizations like the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) and the Maine Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (MACDL), where he is a former board member. His service on the Maine Supreme Judicial Court Advisory Committee on the Rules of Criminal Procedure further underscores his standing and influence within the legal community. The firm's commitment to "professional negotiating skills and cutting edge trial strategies" is a core part of their promotional message, assuring clients of a robust defense. Their broad practice area coverage across Maine's District, Superior, and Federal courts, particularly in Androscoggin, Cumberland, Oxford, and Kennebec Counties, also makes them a widely accessible option for those in need of criminal defense. The Hess Law Firm aims to be the go-to choice for anyone charged with a crime in Maine, emphasizing their preparedness, experience, and unwavering dedication to achieving the best possible outcome for their clients.