Police Law in a Nutshell
By Brian MacMaster
Welcome to Police Law in a Nutshell with Brian MacMaster!
Published here once a month, Brian breaks down complex and evolving topics in a straightforward, usable way for law enforcement professionals. Subjects range from qualified immunity and new Maine statutes to vehicle stops, searches, and the broader legal landscape officers face in the field.
The goal of this blog is simple: to provide timely, relevant, and practical information that helps officers stay informed, make sound decisions, and confidently navigate the challenges of modern policing.
Police Law in a Nutshell: Qualified Immunity for Law Enforcement
What It Is Qualified immunity is a legal doctrine established by the U.S. Supreme Court that shields government officials, including law enforcement officers, from personal lawsuits seeking monetary damages unless they violate “clearly established” constitutional or...
Police Law in a Nutshell: The New Law Limiting State and Local Support of Immigration Enforcement
Introduction LD 1971, “An Act to Protect Workers in This State by Clarifying the Relationship Between State and Local Law Enforcement Agencies and Federal Immigration Authorities,” takes effect in mid-July 2026 (specifically, 90 days after the current legislative...
Police Law in a Nutshell: Deadly Force Review Panel
By Brian MacMaster The creation of the Deadly Force Review Panel was the result of legislation passed in 2019. The original bill, introduced by Rep. Jeffrey Evangelos of Friendship, called for an independent board to review investigations of all officer-involved...
Police Law in a Nutshell: Some Retrospective Observations from Over 50 Years of Policing
While the tools and procedures have evolved, the principles of diligent, thoughtful policing and the importance of clear communication have remained constant. Having been in law enforcement for 55 years, I have often been asked about the differences in policing...
Police Law in a Nutshell: Vehicle Stops – When Does the Seizure End?
By Brian MacMaster Vehicle Stops Constitute Seizures Vehicle stops make up a significant part of any patrol officer’s duties. The law surrounding vehicle stops, especially the extent of an officer’s permissible actions and the authorized duration of a stop, is not...
Police Law in a Nutshell: Guidelines for Release of Information
GUIDELINES FOR THE PUBLIC RELEASE OF INFORMATION IN CONNECTION WITH AN INVESTIGATION, INCIDENT, OR CRIME The release of intelligence and investigative information is governed by the limitations outlined in 16 M.R.S. § 804. Releasing such information requires...
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