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

What is a Power of Attorney? Where can I learn more about Powers of Attorney in Maine?

How do I know if my child’s sexualized behavior is normal or a sign of abuse? Some child sexualized behavior is normal. Other behavior may be a sign of abuse. Here are some resources that may help you know the difference: 

This is the second part of our guide to Child Protection proceedings in Maine. It covers what can happen when DHHS investigates a household because they believe that a child may be at risk of being harmed.

This guide is the first in a series about what happens when DHHS gets involved with families. This guide covers the very first steps in the Maine Child Protection process - our other guides cover later parts of this process. If you are in a situation where DHHS is becoming involved with your family, start here.

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

About DHHS and Child Abuse and Neglect DHHS Child Protective Services investigates reports of child abuse. There are 5 different things that DHHS can do:

Introduction This guide covers many family law topics with information specific to LGBTQ people and families. We also link to other helpful resources. Contents

In 2015 Maine updated its laws about families. This law is called the Maine Parentage Act. It took effect on July 1, 2016. “Parentage” is a legal word. It means the legal relationship between a child and a parent. So, to “establish parentage” means to prove that someone is the legal parent of a child. A child's parents have legal rights and… More