Ben Tucker has been very helpful handling my case. Very responsive and always willing to answer any questions I have. Going out of his way above and beyond. I would recommend him 100x over. He worked out a payment plan that worked for me. Kris at the front desk was always very polite and helpful as well!
J.D.
My experience with Matt Nichols and Kris could not have been any better. Hiring Matt Nichols after a first time OUI charge is one of the best and most impactful decisions I have ever made in my life. I am eternally grateful for his help and guidance through what was a very difficult situation. From the beginning, he clearly explained and laid out the process and the steps that I needed to take and that he would take. Matt is extremely knowledgeable and experienced, communicates directly and clearly, is responsive, and he is a thoughtful and caring man. From the first phone call through the entire process, it was obvious that Matt genuinely cared about me. He communicated clearly what was within my control given the situation and he helped me focus on that and create positive change and growth out of the situation and in my overall life. He was always available to answer my questions, provide clarification, and provide insight and guidance. At the end of the day, I ended up with the best possible result and learned valuable life lessons along the way. I am so grateful to Matt and Kris for their guidance and help through my entire process. I would highly recommend Matt and his team.
A Satisfied And Thankful Client
Matt was fantastic. I always felt like a person he was trying to help, and never just a number. His professionalism and knowledge saved my life as I knew it and he took extra time to connect and guide me through my options. I will always be grateful to Matt for his help and expert guidance. Thank you, Matt!
Dan Merhalski
Ben and Joanne were incredible. They were immediately responsive to my email request. Ben and I had a long discussion about my case even before I officially retained his services. They both communicated clearly throughout the process. He communicated clearly all the various options, and took the time to answer all of my questions. He also took the time to make sure I understood the various steps that would occur, and gave me sound advice on being proactive ahead of my various appearances. I truly appreciate everything they did for me, and I would recommend the without any hesitation.
CK
Having Matt work on my case was the best choice I made.
A Very Satisfied Client
I have never seen a case like yours with an outcome and a decision by the Judge, D.A. & Law Enforcement all in favor of you…” the Clerk of Court said. After crashing and totaling my Audi convertible 1 year after the death of my Mom, I was arrested for OUI. After several breathalyzer tests and a failed field sobriety test, I blew a .28 (at only weighing 148lbs). THANKFULLY I did not hurt anyone in the crash or myself. Hiring Matt Nicholas was my saving grace. He understood the Law better than the law enforcement. My OUI was dismissed thanks to his knowledge of the law. No record on my license other than driving to endanger. I only had to relinquish my license for 30 days. UNBELIEVABLE. I owe everything to him for helping me with getting through this scary situation. One that I have absolutely learned from!
T.S.
Experience can’t be taught and goes a long way in determining what approach may be best. Matt Nichols asked the right questions, listened, understood and worked with the DA’s office to negotiate an appropriate outcome for my case. I am so grateful to have worked with him through such a challenging emotional and legal situation.
A Very Happy Client
Matt provided fantastic insightful knowledge to assist me in my case. He was concise and weighted out various options with one end goal. I would recommend Matt to anyone in a time of need or crisis when a bump in the road pops up for legal consult.
Very Greatful Client
Very attentive and skillful. I had no idea what could have been ahead of me without the years of experience and wise council.
Happy Client
Effective communication, ‘ownership’ of the case, and the subsequent strong advocacy for the client.
Satisfied Client
Matt was a dream to work with, the outcome was fantastic and would recommend to anyone in a similar situation.
A Happy Client
Nobody wants to find themselves in a position where there need a defense attorney. I’m grateful that I went with Matt Nichols. Throughout the whole process, he was always available to answer questions and provide clarification. It’s heartening to see that, even after years of experience, he can see the person and not just the client. Overall, the experience seemed very organized, structured, and seamless. In the end, we got the best results possible. Nobody could have done better, and I believe very few could have done as well for me as he did. Thank you, Matt!
A Very Satisfied Client
I knew the first time I talked with Attorney Tucker I was dealing with somebody who had a lot of experience. Along with knowledge and integrity to help their clients, you’re also getting an attorney who has great relationships with many people in the state of Maine legal system. This helps a ton with working with prosecutors to give you better plea deals. Attorney Tucker was awesome.
A Very Happy Client
The expert advice and knowledge. The communication between us was excellent and everything was handled in a timely manner. You were honest and straight forward nothing misleading. The outcome of my case couldn’t have come out any better.
A Greatful Client
Ben Tucker was absolutely fantastic. From his professionalism with the case to his personable conversation skills, it was an utmost pleasure having Ben as my lawyer. Highly recommend this firm!
A Satisfied Client
Matt and Joanne are kind and caring. They have guided me skillfully through my Legal process and have been so receptive to all my many questions. Initially I felt ashamed and criminalized by my offense and Matt and Joanne encouraged me and made me realize this is a great opportunity for growth and positive change. Matt has made me feel so supported and truly cared for, which was a huge surprise from an attorney. He is a kind caring man and his compassion has prevailed in every interaction we have had.
A Very Happy Client
First of all, Joanne is just amazing. She always makes me feel welcome and is just so competent at everything. What a pleasure. And what can I say about Matt, thank you for believing in me and fighting for me. You really are the best.
A Very Satisfied Client
I thought that I had no hope, but Matt and Joanne took care of me and my case. Phone calls with Matt always left me feeling so much better. You can tell he cares deeply about his clients. In the end, I received the best result possible, and I could not thank them enough. They will always be my first referral.
Happy Client
Matt was on target from day one right through the trial .. never wasted 1 minute of my time… kept everything succinct and informative … and was a rock start in the trial … Amazing experience
Josef
Very responsive. Answered my questions timely. Appreciate all you did for me. Thank you.
Happy Client
Great service, caring staff, always available to help. Quick turn around to questions.
A Satisfied Client
Matt was an absolute professional from start to finish, as was Joanne! Before we even scheduled a free consultation, I was asked to give a narrative. I was very impressed by this because their priority was me the client. I always felt that my voice was being heard. The phone free consult was scheduled for an hour, but Matt gave me two hours of his time so that my every concern was addressed. He had such great intuition about my case. A sharp, quick and clever Attorney. He’s definitely the power in your corner that you want. He’s confident, quick thinking, intelligent and isn’t easily tripped up or taken off his game. He made the entire process smooth and painless. His confidence put me at ease and I knew he’d get me the best possible outcome. He was able to get my case dismissed before arraignment. I’m forever grateful to Matt and Joanne and will DEFINITELY recommend them to friends in Portland if they ever need an Attorney!
Toya Brennan
I find it difficult to put into words the gratitude I feel towards Matt Nichols and Joanne. My case was not an easy one. I was facing substantial jail time, and the outlook seemed bleak. Matt agreed to meet with my wife an I on a cold Saturday and spent the better of 2.5hrs going over my case and the potential defense and outcome. This was my 4th lifetime DUI. As you know, so many questions come up as the case goes forward through the courts. Every single concern was answered promptly and thoroughly. As my case progressed, I realized that Matt believed in me. That made such a difference in my life. He played and plays such an important part in my life now that I’m proud to say that today, I’m not drinking and I’ve found the confidence I lost while in the throws of my addiction to alcohol. I owe him, my parents and my wife a heartfelt thank you. Here are the cliff notes: I was charged with a 4th lifetime DUI. Matt negotiated it down to a 1st DUI charge. If your situation is anything similar to mine, and you feel overwhelmed with nowhere to turn and every lawyer sounds the same, SPEAK TO MATT. God Bless Matt.
Frederic Revah
Staff was professional and super helpful. I felt more like a friend of Matt than I did his client. He was easy to talk to…about almost anything. He lifted a lot of the stress from me that I was carrying regarding my case.
A Satisfied client
It was very clear from the beginning that Matt knows exactly what he’s doing when it comes to OUI defense. It was very helpful to get clear instructions on what to do, when, and who else to consult with. Seeing how he was greeted in court, and the respect he very obviously was given by the many people there who knew him and clearly thought highly of him, was also very comforting. People who retain him should do exactly what he says, to the letter, as quickly as possible. His services don’t come with any sugar-coating or a lot of hand-holding, but in the end the competence of the representation is what counts, and it was very much on display in my case.
Daniel Summers
Very professional, kept me informed throughout the whole process, and did what they said they would do. Highly recommend them.
Robert Mann
I was immensely pleased with my experience with Matt Nichols. His expertise of the Maine legal system and the prosecutorial staff was unparalleled. Mr. Nichols was professional and empathetic in all matters. Mr. Nichols was easy to communicate with and always returned calls and emails in a timely fashion. More than anything Matt cared about my case, my family and my life. His dedication of time and resources proved this and the outcome his services rendered was more favorable than any I could imagine. If you’re in search of an attorney in the state of Maine that will treat you with dignity, respect and kindness Nichols Churchill is your firm.
MS
I couldn’t be happier with the service Matt Nichols and his team at Nichols and Tucker provided for me. Due to the short notice of my court appearance, I had trouble finding an attorney that was willing to deal with my case due to the lack of time and nature of the case. Matt and Joanne had me in for a meeting two days after I reached out to them. They were very professional and honest about everything we discussed in our first meeting. I got all the ins and outs of how the case could go and felt very comfortable letting them take the reins. The team at Nichols and Tucker are very motivated, trustworthy and eager to help veterans.
KH
I was recently charged with an OUI in Scarborough Maine in late fall. I knew I wanted to retain an Attorney, but did not know who to call? I called a friend, a local auto dealer, told him my dilemma, and without hesitation he said Atty Matt Nichols, Nichols & Tucker, P.A. in Portland is the best attorney in Maine to represent you.
He was right. I called Matt’s office and made an appointment to meet him for No-Cost, No-Obligation Consultation immediately. I sat with Matt for over an hour discussing the events that led up to the arrest.
Very early in our meeting I knew Matt had my back and I was in good hands. Matt laid out the complete outline and recommended steps needed to be taken, in detail, going forward. I can say I never would have been where I am today, if it wasn’t for Matt and Joanne his assistant.
They lead me every step of the way and negotiated a better than fair finding for me. I would suggest and recommend that Atty Matt Nichols should be your first choice for any legal defense. I can’t begin to say how much I appreciate their continued support and kind considerations.
KW
Hi Matt,
As I write, I have almost 8.5 months in recovery…..probably the longest in my adult life, minus times that I was pregnant or nursing a newborn. I feel very solid with and am greatly supported in my recovery work.
I want to say thank you…..but the words don’t seem to make the impact I am going for. My life and the outcome of my complicated and shame-filled case would look so different, were it not for the time and energy you put in to it, your experience and expertise in the legal sphere, and your genuine concern and commitment to your clients and their emotional and physical well-being…specifically dealing with substance abuse. You are remarkable and unique…l never doubted that you were representing me and my case better than anyone out there could. This offered me a sense of comfort, even in my most scared and hopeless moments prior to July 14 (and there were many of those!). I’m so grateful.
You and Joanne are a powerful team. I would and will recommend you in a heartbeat to anyone looking for legal representation and guidance. I would write on your website if that is helpful also.
I am going to be making a donation on behalf of you (and Joanne) to the Wounded Warrior project. It is my intention to do this annually. It will be a good reminder of where I was and never want to be again…as well as, how far I have come and the places that I have yet to go.
With true gratitude and sincerity,
H.B.
…thank goodness I had Matt…
It is no surprise that when I was stopped and arrested I was scared to death. I was treated like a common criminal and made to feel like the worst human being on earth for making this terrible mistake of drinking and driving. A friend recommended that I contact Matt Nichols to look into my case. I was very apprehensive about everything including seeking out a lawyer. This was my first time dealing with law enforcement and really did not realize what kind of trouble I was in. If you have been through this process with the police then you will understand that they tell you all kind of scary things, which most turnout to be untrue. So back to my story, I entered Matt’s office having no real idea of what to expect. To my surprise Matt took the time to walk me through the whole legal process and patiently answered my questions. I had a lot of questions, remember I was scared to death. Matt listened and steered me back on course and talked about this being actually two cases. I found this confusing but I also found it interesting. Just so you know it didn’t seem right to me that you can be facing multiply penalties all along the process. Matt didn’t sugar coat it and told the truth which was refreshing after my dealing with the police.
You know it is so tempting to try your own case in your mind but thank goodness I had Matt there to steer me away from all of those foolish thoughts.
Matt was able to use to our advantage everywhere the police made mistakes (they didn’t make many but he caught them all). During the DMV hearing I did not lose my license which was a surprise and I think very much a surprise to the police. Always nice to win one now and then. Then the court date and even though I wanted to fight the case, the odds were way in the favor of the DA. I have no idea what was said but Matt somehow got the DA to actually settle in my favor. No I didn’t just walk away, I did end up with a DTE and still paid a nasty fine with the loss of my license for a month but the alternative would have been much more costly to me. Also it was knowing I was not alone and I had an excellent lawyer on my side no matter the outcome. Just as a note I called Matt on a Saturday and he was in his office going over my case by watching the police tapes. Things looked bad for me because like I said earlier, first time with the law and I was way to honest with the police, thus really making my case bad. Matt was upfront and told me so but it didn’t matter he was ready to fight. I think that part of knowing that this man had my back meant more to me than the actual outcome. It really stinks when you are treated like dirt, and each small victory was very important to me. I can’t guarantee that Matt will win your case and you’ll walk away, but what I can tell you from my experience you will have a lawyer who knows his stuff, will tell you the truth, will fight for you and most important have your back.
Ronald York
Best Attorney in State of ME
Posted by a client, December 13, 2017I cannot rave enough about this man!!!! If you’re hit with an OUI, please hire Matthew Nichols!!! I had 2 OUI’s as well as 2 VCR charges, I was looking at jail time, losing my license for 3 whole years, plus who knows how much of a fine. Matthew Nichols answered every question and concern I had quickly (a few hours later, max) and 2 of my 4 cases were dropped! Ended up with 0 jail time and only ended up being off the roads for a few months before earning my license back fully. I will forever be glad that my family found Matthew Nichols! Recommended x 1000000!!!
He got my OUI charges dropped
Posted by a client, June 2, 2017I hired Matt when I was charged with OUI in the spring of 2016. He was very professional and was able to meet me for a consultation less than a week after my arrest. He was able to identify problems with my case that I was unaware of and resulted in the charges against me being dropped. I would recommend hiring him, you will have a hard time finding better representation in Maine.
Dear Attorney Nichols,
I cannot thank you enough for the services you rendered on my behalf. Both you and Joanne were always available for questions and times you weren’t you got back to me with answers almost immediately. You were was always one step ahead and handled both the DMV and court case timely, professionally with ease….never missing a beat! I sincerely appreciate everything you did for me and my family!
Thank you!
Roger
Extremely knowledgeable representation…
Posted by ChrisI can’t imagine a better team to defend your OUI arrest…Very thorough in following all aspects of the arrest record. Attorney Matt Nichols and his team (particularly his incredibly helpful assistant, Joanne) are extremely responsive to your inquiries regarding the process of your defense, and keep you informed of deadlines and important dates along the way. I don’t believe there is anyone in the legal profession better versed in OUI law in Maine than Matt Nichols. Trust me, he is your best defense…
Spot-On Expertise and Guidance Every Step of the Process
Posted by ClientRight from the start during the initial consultation I knew I had made the right choice in selecting representation for my DUI. Matt’s approach in my case, expertise, and guidance proved to be very effective throughout a process that involved the BMV, the ADA and the Courts. Both Matt, and his extremely capable legal assistant, Joanne, were responsive in a timely manner to my questions along the way. Their knowledge and professionalism helped me to be well informed and patient with the system. Knowing exactly what to expect made it easier for me to cope with the process and prepare for what lay before me. And it all payed off….I couldn’t be more satisfied with the results.
Case Dismissed
Posted by Greg DayMatt, Sarah, and Joanne exceeded all of my expectations throughout the entire process of my second OUI charge. Because my case was my second within 10 years and it was a refusal I was facing severe penalties with life altering consequences as well as 2 weeks jail time minimum. Matt’s initial 1 hour free consultation went beyond the alotted time as he took extra time to describe each and every aspect of the process. Shortly after hiring the team I began to receive copies of all the paperwork, including requests for video evidence from the arresting police department. The heat was really getting turned up as the police reports and videos came rolling in. My behavior at the police station the day of my arrest was entirely unacceptable as Matt & I watched every painful second of the police station video footage twice from beginning to end looking for any lapse in protocol that would be to my benefit. Matt’s knowledge of OUI law became even more evident as we watched the video. Matt did not make any false promises or get ahead of me in terms of leading me to believe one thing or the other regarding an outcome, what he did do was focus on application of the law, and he made sure all of my rights were upheld at every point of the arrest. Sarah, in fact, represented me at the BMV hearing and was able to emerge victorious completely eliminating an 18 month license suspension (Not including Secretary of State suspension of 3 years concurrent to BMV). Joanne notified me immediately of my license being reinstated after being suspended only 9 days. In the interim leading up to my trial Matt made sure to keep me posted on exactly what to do and expect as my date drew closer. He was excellent at getting back to my phone calls and e-mails and typically did within an hour or two unless he was in the courtroom. He also kept me informed of any details that would help me achieve the best possible outcome that tend to get overlooked, including writing letters and arriving to court early on a busy day. I could not have asked for a better outcome as my OUI charge was dismissed due to Matt’s knowledge of OUI/refusal law. It is clear that Matt is highly respected in this field but also respected in the courtroom and by law enforcement. My endorsement is simple: Don’t drink and drive, ever. It is foolish, stressful, and costly. On the other hand, good people make mistakes. Having Sarah, Matt and Joanne on your side is the only silver lining to a first, or second OUI charge. And, the more complicated and unsavory your case may be, the more I would recommend them.
Great Attorney
Posted by ClientI had never been in trouble before my OUI arrest. I went to Matt and he explained the process and ramifications in the initial conversation. He went way over the 1 hour that he does for free and answered all my questions. He is not the type of attorney that will hand hold you, and he is not exactly comforting. He explains what it is, how it is and what needs to be done. I appreciated all of that in him, but some people might want/need a little more emotional support. Even still, any time I had a question I would email him and if it took an hour to get a response that would have been a long time. So he is there for you but he just won’t devote a lot of energy to your feelings. Again, I appreciate this in people, so I don’t mean it as a slight towards him. I received a copy of everything filed with the court by both parties and at all times I was made aware of the next step. He was always prompt to meetings and was always prepared–to which I think a lot of credit is due to his office assistant as she is amazing. Contrary to the other reviewer, I was never lectured on alcohol use by Matt and he doesn’t come across as the lecturing type on such issue.
I did loose my license for 90 days as part of the DMV suspension but not for the criminal offense because my case was dismissed. The DMV part of an OUI is a separate issue from the criminal matter, it also starts very quickly after the arrest, and the scope of the hearing is very limited. Their real concern is the testing procedure of the breathalyzer and not much else matters. The hearing is painless and Matt did all the talking so in reality I spent more time worrying about the hearing than actually attending the hearing. He asked that I attend but I wasn’t required to be at the hearing.
Overall, Matt is a great attorney, he’s friendly, efficient and is a guy you want fighting for you. Just don’t expect him to call you up and ask how you’re feeling.
The best attorney money can buy.
Posted by a client, December 6, 2016Matt Nichols is, hands down, the best attorney money can buy. I have used his services (along with those of his associate, Sarah Churchill) on three different occasions concerning OUI charges, and have never been let down. Matt Nichols knows his way around the legal system, and he always makes sure you know exactly what to expect every step of the way. The last time I hired Matt to represent me, I was facing felony OUI charges that threatened to greatly derail my life; Matt was able to work out a deal with the D.A. that would greatly reduce my sentence. Both Matt and his legal assistant Joanne were quick to respond to any questions I had during the process, and also provided continued support in the aftermath.
The greatest thing about having Matt Nichols in your corner is that he genuinely cares about his clients. This is not just a job for Matt; I can earnestly say that his support went far beyond what you would expect from a typical attorney-client relationship. I had no doubt that he was truly fighting for me 100%, and I couldn’t have been more pleased with the results.
I can’t say enough good things about Matt Nichols; he is worth every penny!
Exactly the right man for the job!
Posted by a DUI client, Sept. 24, 2014– I recommend Matthew Nichols.
– I hired Matthew 1-6 months ago.
– Matthew handled my DUI / DWI matter.Matt was an ace in all hearings. We had the fortune of going head to head with a “loose cannon” of an officer, and Matt made sure to exploit that but never play the bad guy.
The facts he found in my defense could not be refuted, his angle of attack was dead on – at the time I would have preferred going after the officer more overtly, but Matt’s experience kept him on a line that didn’t jeopardize my case with the hearings officer (former police man) or the district attorney.
At times I second guessed the way the case was proceeding, but in the end Matt not only beat the refusal, but also the criminal charge. He knew what had to be done, tactfully made the conclusions for the hearings officer and district attorney, and fed them the answers.
It’s very clear that he has years of experience and volumes of knowledge in this field, and if you’re in a position where you need an expert in this field, then look no further!
The ONLY firm to hire when facing an OUI charge
Posted by a DUI client, Sept. 26, 2014Attorney Nichols and his Legal Assistant, Joanne, are consummate professionals and advocates for their clients. From the initial consultation onward I was impressed with Matt’s thoroughness and proactive approach for dealing with the charge. Throughout the process of the criminal procedure Matt and Joanne were always quick to reply with straightforward answers in a non-judgmental way. Attorney Nichols is exceptionally well versed and knowledgeable with respect to all matters DUI related: His reputation as a top-level criminal defense attorney is well deserved and earned with over 25 years defending clients.
Matt has a knack for communicating effectively and efficiently with the local District Attorney’s office which proved vital in significantly reducing the punitive portion of my charge. I would highly recommend the services of Matt and his firm should you ever be in the unfortunate situation of facing a criminal charge of OUI.
Matt, GOD Bless
Posted by Bill, a DUI client, 2 months ago– I recommend Matthew Nichols.
– I hired Matthew 1-6 months ago.
– Matthew handled my DUI / DWI matter.Matt was the ultimate professional. I would recommend him. He kept me informed on all that was going on at all times. He filled me in on how everything was going to take place, and what my options were at all times. I am not from Maine and not only did he keep me updated on what to expect in Maine, but also what to expect in my home state. He arranged it so I did not have to appear at my first hearing. The bottom line is that wile I pleaded guilty, it was to the lesser charge of driving to endanger and not D.U.I.
A Review for Matt Nichols
Posted by a DUI client, 2 months ago– I recommend Matthew Nichols.
– I hired Matthew 1-6 months ago.
– Matthew handled my DUI / DWI matter.I would recommend Matt to anyone who is in need of a DUI lawyer. This experience was not easy and Matt helped me through the entire process. Every step he was there to explain what I needed to do and why. Not only was this experience an awful one but it is extremely confusing and Matt was there to explain all steps, options and possible outcomes. Matt was also willing to meet on the weekend to accommodate my work schedule.
Not only was Matt great but his inside team, Joanne, was great too. She has worked in the system for years and if Matt was not around, she had the answers to all my questions. She is very knowledgeable and always followed up with me on appointments and forms I needed to send in.
I HIGHLY recommend sitting down with Matt for a consultation if you have been pulled over for DUI. You need to be educated and consulted throughout this process and Matt is person you want to talk to and represent you.
Wonderful Review for a Wonderful Lawyer
Posted by Amanda, 4 months ago– I recommend Matthew Nichols.
– I hired Matthew 6-12 months ago.I contacted Matthew in order to help me with a case where I was caught shoplifting. He not only charged me a reasonable price, but was quick to make contact with me and let me know what he could do for me. I am in school to be a teacher, and was very concerned about having such a bad choice affect my career. Matt was able to reassure me that such a juvenile choice was not going to stay on my record as far as he was concerned. I was scheduled for court on three separate occasions, and I was fortunate to not have to attend any of the hearings. Matt really took care of me. He was relatively good about answering emails, and was always available to talk on the phone when an appointment was made. He knew exactly what to do! My case was dropped completely, and I couldn’t be more lucky to have Matt perform such a task! I would certainly recommend this great lawyer to anyone and owe him a lot of gratitude for what he was able to do for me.
Happy choosing Matthew Nichols to help.
Posted by a DUI client, 4 months ago– I recommend Matthew Nichols.
– I hired Matthew 1-3 years ago.
– Matthew handled my DUI / DWI matter.I went to Mr. Nichols in search of someone that had the most obvious depth in knowledge of DUI cases. I felt as though he was friendly but informative. Although, in my particular case I had nothing much in my favor to get away with my actions, Mr. Nichols was able to get me the best possible outcome and avoid a much harsher punishment to which I am grateful. He has experience and knowledge and is prompt and thorough. He gets results.
I ENTHUSIASTICALLY RECOMMEND ATTORNEY MATTHEW NICHOLS!
Posted by Vincent, a DUI client, 4 months ago– I recommend Matthew Nichols.
– I hired Matthew 1-3 years ago.
– Matthew handled my DUI / DWI matter.I hired Attorney Matthew Nichols about one year ago, after I was arrested and charged with OUI while on vacation with friends and family in Maine. As an out of state resident, I was unfamiliar with the laws and procedures in the state of Maine. I spent a considerable amount of time researching both, and scheduled a number of consultations with local trial attorneys that specialized in criminal defense, specifically representing individuals charged with OUI. I spoke with five attorneys before my initial consultation with Attorney Nichols. From the first time that we spoke and every time thereafter, Attorney Nichols was professional, thoughtful and conveyed a level of expertise that distinguished himself from his peers. He anticipated, and precisely answered all of my questions. Additionally, Attorney Nichols identified and discussed all of the collateral consequences associated with the pending case and any potential outcomes. Most importantly, he was sensitive to my lack of familiarity the with the criminal justice process in the state of Maine, and took time to thoroughly explain, in terms that I could understand, everything that I could expect to encounter moving forward.
During this stressful and uncertain time, I took great comfort in the fact that Attorney Nichols was always accessible by both telephone and email, and he encouraged me to contact him with any questions or concerns that arose, regardless of the hour. In addition to accessibility, I appreciated Attorney Nichols’s candor and honesty. At every stage of the process, he explained both the “good and the bad,” leaving no room for surprises. Contrary to comments offered by a previous reviewer, Attorney Nichols never once lectured me or judged the questionable behavior that culminated in my arrest. Instead, he was thoughtful, professional and respectful at all times.
Attorney Nichols always arrived to court early and prepared, and his knowledge of the law and ability as a trial attorney was impressive to watch. I noticed that his colleagues, including the state prosecutor and the judge that presided over my case, addressed Attorney Nichols with a level of deference that could only have been earned though many years of ethical and zealous advocacy on behalf of his clients. In fact, I was not surprised at the conclusion of my trial when the judge returned a verdict of NOT GUILTY.
Great Attorney
Posted by a DUI client, 2 years ago– I recommend Matthew Nichols.
– I hired Matthew 1-3 years ago.
– Matthew handled my DUI / DWI matter.I had never been in trouble before my OUI arrest. I went to Matt and he explained the process and ramifications in the initial conversation. He went way over the 1 hour that he does for free and answered all my questions. He is not the type of attorney that will hand hold you, and he is not exactly comforting. He explains what it is, how it is and what needs to be done. I appreciated all of that in him, but some people might want/need a little more emotional support. Even still, any time I had a question I would email him and if it took an hour to get a response that would have been a long time. So he is there for you but he just won’t devote a lot of energy to your feelings. Again, I appreciate this in people, so I don’t mean it as a slight towards him. I received a copy of everything filed with the court by both parties and at all times I was made aware of the next step. He was always prompt to meetings and was always prepared–to which I think a lot of credit is due to his office assistant as she is amazing. Contrary to the other reviewer, I was never lectured on alcohol use by Matt and he doesn’t come across as the lecturing type on such issue.
I did loose my license for 90 days as part of the DMV suspension but not for the criminal offense because my case was dismissed. The DMV part of an OUI is a separate issue from the criminal matter, it also starts very quickly after the arrest, and the scope of the hearing is very limited. Their real concern is the testing procedure of the breathalyzer and not much else matters. The hearing is painless and Matt did all the talking so in reality I spent more time worrying about the hearing than actually attending the hearing. He asked that I attend but I wasn’t required to be at the hearing.
Overall, Matt is a great attorney, he’s friendly, efficient and is a guy you want fighting for you. Just don’t expect him to call you up and ask how you’re feeling.
