Quick ExitThe Maine Attorney General's Office is responsible for prosecuting murder and non-vehicular manslaughter cases. Victim Witness Advocates (VWA) assist surviving loved ones and witnesses throughout the criminal process and connect families with resources and support.
Information for Loved Ones of Homicide Victims
By law, the Office of the Attorney General directs and controls the investigation and prosecution of homicides.
When a homicide occurs, Assistant Attorneys General assigned to the Homicide Unit of the Criminal Division respond and advise detectives from the investigating agency. The Maine State Police and Portland and Bangor police departments are the three agencies state-wide charged with the responsibility of investigating homicides. The prosecutors work closely with detectives, forensic scientists from the Crime Laboratory and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner during the course of the investigation. This collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach is utilized throughout the investigation and trial of the defendant. When an individual is convicted of murder or manslaughter, the Office of the Attorney General handles all appeal and post-conviction litigation.
