As of 2025, Maine does not have a “Stand Your Ground” law. Instead, the state’s legal framework imposes a duty to retreat before using deadly force in public, which is different from the “Stand Your Ground” laws found in other states.
In Maine, individuals are required to attempt to safely retreat from a threatening situation if possible, before resorting to deadly force. This law is designed to minimize the use of force and encourage nonviolent resolutions when confronted with danger.
What is the Duty to Retreat?
The duty to retreat means that in Maine, you must make an effort to avoid using deadly force if there is an opportunity to safely leave the situation. If you’re confronted by a threat, you have an obligation to try and retreat, as long as doing so does not put you in further harm.
This contrasts with “Stand Your Ground” laws, which allow individuals to use deadly force without retreating, as long as they believe it is necessary to prevent death or serious injury.
The Castle Doctrine: Self-Defense in Your Home
Maine does have the “castle doctrine,” which allows individuals to use deadly force without a duty to retreat when they are inside their home or other property under their control. If you’re attacked in your home or another place you have a right to be, you do not have to attempt to retreat before using deadly force.
This is considered an exception to the general duty to retreat rule.
Proposed Changes and Legislative Efforts
A bill to remove the duty to retreat and expand self-defense rights, similar to “Stand Your Ground” laws in other states, has been introduced in Maine. However, this bill has not passed and faces significant opposition.
Critics of the bill argue that eliminating the duty to retreat could lead to an increase in violence and contribute to racial disparities in the use of force. As of now, the law remains unchanged.
Maine requires a duty to retreat before using deadly force in public situations, meaning you must attempt to safely leave if possible.
There is no “Stand Your Ground” law in Maine, and the right to use deadly force outside of the home or property is not unrestricted.
The “castle doctrine” applies inside the home or property, meaning no retreat is required if you are defending yourself in your home.
Legislative changes to remove the duty to retreat have been proposed but have not been enacted as of 2025.
For more detailed legal advice regarding self-defense laws in Maine, it is best to consult a local criminal defense attorney who can provide tailored guidance based on your situation.
[1] https://www.notguiltyattorneys.com/self-defense-and-standing-your-ground-in-maine/
[2] https://www.themainewire.com/2025/03/republican-bill-would-expand-the-right-to-self-defense-by-removing-duty-to-retreat/
[3] https://www.justia.com/criminal/defenses/stand-your-ground-laws-50-state-survey/
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stand-your-ground_law
