Child Abuse and Neglect in Maine: DHHS Substantiation and Indication
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:
LGBTQ Family Law Guide
Introduction
This guide covers many family law topics with information specific to LGBTQ people and families. We also link to other helpful resources.
Contents
Maine Parentage Act: Who can be a parent?
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
The Tax Consequences of Divorce or Separation
Divorce or separation can mean big changes on your taxes. Spousal support, also called alimony, and a name change are just a few things you may need to consider. Here are some tax tips to keep in mind if you are recently divorced or separated.
Do you owe $500 or more to your electric company?
If you're more than $500 in debt on your electric bill, this program may be able to help you. You pay just your current monthly electric bill, each month and on time. For each month that you pay your current bill, your electric utility company will wipe out 1/12 of what you owe them on your back bill. Learn about how to enroll!
How to remove 'revenge porn' or non-consensual pornography
Non-consensual pornography, also called revenge porn, is a fast growing area of sexual abuse. A new Maine law makes posting revenge porn illegal. Learn how to protect yourself if you become a victim.
Same-sex marriage: How does the Social Security Administration look at my marriage?
Updated information about how the Social Security Administration treats same-sex marriages.
What Concerned Adults Can Do to Protect an Endangered Child
You can file a Three-Person Petition (also called a Three-Party Petition) in District Court. Under the Maine Child Protection laws, three or more people can file a Child Protection petition, asking the Court to order DHHS or a third party like a relative to take custody of and provide services to a youth...
How to File a Civil Appeal
The Maine Courts post basic instructions about how you can appeal to a higher court if you believe that the lower court"
Get a Refund on Your Property Taxes or Rent
Tax credits for people with low incomes who own their own homes or pay rent.