Berman & Simmons Plays Key Role in Recent Legislative Updates

For more than 100 years, Berman & Simmons has represented seriously injured plaintiffs in the Maine court system. As part of our century-old commitment to civil justice, we have a proud tradition of advocacy before the Maine Legislature on behalf of the rights of injured Mainers. We are honored to have played a key role in helping to pass many important laws that, in turn, have helped ensure access to justice for all Maine people.

LD 589: An Act to Provide Access to Justice for Victims of Childhood Sexual Abuse

On June 21, 2021, Governor Janet Mills signed into law a bill that lifted the statute of limitations on all claims arising out of sexual acts towards minors. This law, which retroactively lifts already-expired limitations on sex abuse claims occurring prior to 1987, takes effect on October 18, 2021. Attorney Michael Bigos, who specializes in litigation related to child sex abuse, testified before a legislative committee in support of this change in the law.

LD 737: An Act to Increase the Value of Property Exempt from Attachment and Execution

Beginning on October 18, 2021, the limits for certain amounts of property exempt from attachment and execution will increase. For example, the exemption of aggregate interest for a debtor’s residence increases from $95,000 to $160,000 if the debtor has minor dependents. See 14 M.R.S. § 4422 for complete changes.

LD 841: An Act to Amend the Laws Governing Damages Awarded for Wrongful Death

In 2019, the Maine Legislature passed a law increasing the statutory cap that can be collected for non-economic damages in wrongful death claims by 50 percent, from $500K to $750K.

LD 492: An Act to Extend from Six Months to One Year the Notice Period Required under the Maine Tort Claims Act

This 2019 bill doubles the notice period for Maine Tort Claims Act claims from six months to one year.