Self Help Tools

How does domestic violence affect children? Violence and trauma can have long-lasting effects on children who witness or experience violent events.

Federal and State Law Federal and state law allow money from military retirement pay to be withheld to meet most child support and spousal support (alimony) obligations.

Your rights as a parent do not stop when you are in the military and called to active duty. There are many things to consider and plan for, especially if you are separated from your child’s other parent.  This is a summary of some of the relevant Maine laws that may help you understand your rights.

If you are starting a family law case (such as a divorce or setting parental rights and responsibilities), you must tell the other party that you are bringing a court action against them. You do this by "serving" the other party. This means that you give copies of your court papers to the other party. Court rules tell you how this must be done.

In Maine, some grandparents may ask a court to give them contact or visitation with their grandchildren.  But, children’s parents usually have the right to decide how to raise their children including if the grandparents can see their grandchildren.  Therefore, except in urgent cases or where the grandparents have actually acted like the parents… More

Lists resources for people who are separating or going through divorce: where to get legal and financial help, and other support services.