Maine § 996. - Distraint before tax due to prevent loss

Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 996. — Distraint before tax due to prevent loss, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 996.. Distraint before tax due to prevent loss

When a tax collector has reason to believe that there is danger of losing, by delay, a tax assessed upon any taxpayer, at any time after commitment:  

1.  Warrant issued.  The tax collector may issue the warrant provided for in section 994 prior to the expiration of the 3-month period;

2.  When served.  The tax collector may in the warrant authorized by section 994, or in subsection 1, direct the law enforcement officer to demand immediate payment, and, if not paid, the officer shall serve such warrant without further notice;

3.  When notice period unexpired.  The tax collector may, after the issuance of the warrant pursuant to subsection 1, in writing direct the law enforcement officer to whom the warrant has been issued to demand immediate payment, and, if not paid, to serve such warrant without further notice notwithstanding any unexpired portion of the 10-day notice period required by section 995; or

4.  Distrain or arrest.  The tax collector may personally demand immediate payment and upon failure may distrain the property or arrest the person of such taxpayer.

Source: official Maine text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 996.

What does Maine Revised Statutes § 996. cover?

Section 996. ("Distraint before tax due to prevent loss") is part of the Maine Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Maine. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Maine § 996.?

A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 996." (Maine). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Maine law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maine official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maine attorney.

How does Maine § 996. apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maine can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maine.