Law Office of Seth Berner - Portland, ME

Committed to Social Justice and Civil Rights ⚖️

The Law Office of Seth Berner is a unique legal practice in Portland, Maine, driven by a deep commitment to social justice, civil liberties, and the defense of individual rights. Founded in 1985, attorney Seth Berner has spent his career advocating for the underrepresented and challenging systemic inequalities. A graduate of the University of Maine School of Law (1983), Mr. Berner is not only a lawyer but also a well-known activist in the community. His practice is built on the belief that the legal system should serve everyone, not just the powerful, and he frequently takes on cases that involve significant constitutional questions or protection of the vulnerable 🛡️.

Criminal Defense and Civil Liberties

Seth Berner provides aggressive defense for individuals facing criminal charges, understanding that a conviction can have lifelong consequences. His work often intersects with civil rights activism, focusing on:

• Criminal Defense: Representing clients accused of various offenses, including drug crimes, OUI, and disorderly conduct, often involving political or free speech elements.
• Police Misconduct: Fighting against excessive force, illegal searches, and violations of constitutional rights.
• Appellate Practice: Handling appeals to higher courts to correct legal errors and set precedents that protect civil liberties 📜.

Tenant Rights and Housing

A fierce advocate for housing justice, Seth Berner is closely associated with the Portland Tenants Union and the fight for fair housing conditions.

• Eviction Defense: helping tenants facing unfair eviction proceedings to stay in their homes.
• Habitability Issues: forcing landlords to maintain safe and sanitary living conditions.
• Tenant Advocacy: counseling renters on their rights under Maine law to prevent exploitation.

Child Protection and Family Law

The firm also handles sensitive matters regarding family dynamics and state intervention:

• Child Protective Services: Representing parents in cases involving the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), working to keep families together whenever possible.
• Guardianships: assisting family members in securing legal authority to care for children or incapacitated adults.

Community Involvement

Seth Berner's legal work is inseparable from his community activism. He has been a candidate for the Maine Legislature and actively volunteers with organizations such as the NAACP and the Volunteer Lawyers Project. His dedication to the little guy makes him a distinct voice in the Portland legal landscape, offering representation that is both legally skilled and morally driven 🌍.