Self Help Tools

Starting in June, 2020, Maine courts will allow video or telephone mediation in your Family Matter cases through video or telephone. There are no in-person mediations in court because of COVID-19. What is Zoom? Zoom is a program that allows you to have virtual video meetings on your computer, phone, or tablet.

Posted and up-to-date on 10/1/2020

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.

What is this information and how will it help me? This information is for parents who are being pursued by DHHS for payment of child support. We also have pages on these related topics:

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.

Note: This article is about guardian ad litems in the state of Maine. This role, and the process around a guardian ad litem may be different in other states.

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