Kennebunk Maine Divorce Lawyers

Divorce & Family Law Lawyers in Kennebunk, Maine

Divorce often brings overwhelming emotional and financial challenges. At The Maine Divorce Group, our experienced divorce lawyers in Kennebunk, Maine provide strategic, compassionate legal support to help individuals and families navigate these difficult transitions with confidence. Whether you’re initiating divorce proceedings or responding to one, our team is here to guide you through each step of the process.

Every divorce case is unique. Some involve complex property or business interests, while others center on child custody or financial support. Our Kennebunk family law attorneys tailor every strategy to your goals, whether your matter is contested, amicable, or somewhere in between.

We assist clients in Kennebunk and surrounding communities with the full spectrum of Maine family law, including:

• Divorce and legal separation
• Child custody and parenting plans
• Spousal support and alimony
• Child support calculation and enforcement
• Division of marital, business, and retirement assets

At The Maine Divorce Group, we work to resolve family law matters through negotiation or mediation whenever possible, but we are fully prepared to litigate when necessary. No matter how complex your situation may be, we’re committed to protecting your rights and helping you move forward with clarity and peace of mind.

Kennebunk Law Firm Location

Family Law Services in Kennebunk, Maine

At The Maine Divorce Group, we provide experienced legal guidance to clients in Kennebunk and surrounding areas across a wide range of family law matters. Whether you’re going through a traditional divorce, ending a civil union, or navigating a domestic partnership separation, our attorneys are here to help you make informed, confident decisions.

Divorce

A divorce in Kennebunk is not just the end of a marriage—it’s the beginning of a complex legal process involving critical decisions about finances, property, and parenting. Maine law requires specific procedures for filing and finalizing a divorce, and each case may involve negotiation or litigation around shared assets, debt, or parental rights. Our Kennebunk divorce lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way with strategic, compassionate representation.

Divorce Mediation

Divorce mediation in Kennebunk offers a structured, cost-effective alternative to traditional litigation. It allows both spouses to work collaboratively toward solutions on property division, custody, and financial support. Mediation often leads to faster outcomes, reduced stress, and more control over the final agreement. Our attorneys regularly assist clients in mediation as a preferred method of resolving divorce and family disputes.

Parental Rights and Responsibilities

In Maine, child custody is legally referred to as parental rights and responsibilities. These responsibilities include decision-making, physical residence, and communication with the child. Our Kennebunk family lawyers help parents craft parenting plans that prioritize the best interests of the child while protecting parental rights and ensuring long-term stability after divorce or separation.

Child Support

Child support in Kennebunk is governed by Maine’s legal guidelines, which take into account each parent’s income, parenting time, and the child’s needs. A support order is typically issued alongside decisions about parental rights. Our attorneys help parents calculate fair support obligations, seek modifications, and enforce existing child support agreements when necessary.

Spousal Support

Spousal support in Kennebunk, also known as alimony, may be awarded depending on the length of the marriage, income disparity, and financial need. Whether you are seeking support or may be required to pay it, our divorce lawyers will assess your situation and advocate for a result that reflects your rights under Maine law.

Property Division

Property division in a Kennebunk divorce follows Maine’s equitable distribution rules. This means marital property is divided fairly—but not always equally—based on several legal factors. We assist clients with identifying marital vs. non-marital property, evaluating business or investment assets, and negotiating or litigating for a just division of the marital estate.

Child Relocation

When a parent with primary residence wishes to move, child relocation in Kennebunk becomes a legal issue requiring court involvement. Any move that significantly affects the current parenting plan must be reviewed to ensure it serves the child’s best interests. Our attorneys provide guidance to parents seeking or contesting relocation, ensuring compliance with Maine custody laws.

Post-Judgment Modifications

Even after a divorce is finalized, life changes. If circumstances shift, post-judgment modifications in Kennebunk may be necessary. These include changes to parenting plans, support orders, or property enforcement. Our team assists clients with filing modification requests or enforcing court orders, while ensuring compliance with Maine family law procedures.

What to do before filing for divorce in Kennebunk, Maine

Filing for divorce is a serious and life-changing decision—and being prepared can make a significant difference in the outcome. Before initiating the divorce process in Kennebunk, Maine, it’s essential to take deliberate steps to protect your financial interests, your parental rights, and your long-term well-being.

Many people begin by consulting with an experienced Kennebunk divorce lawyer who can help clarify which steps are necessary before filing. This preparation can prevent mistakes, reduce conflict, and lead to more favorable results during the divorce process.

Here are some important considerations to address before filing for divorce in Kennebunk:

• Review shared assets, including real estate, vehicles, retirement accounts, and digital property
• Identify marital and non-marital property that may be subject to division
• Plan for business ownership, if either spouse owns a company or holds equity
• Prepare for child-related issues, such as creating a parenting plan or understanding Maine’s child support guidelines
• Evaluate potential spousal support, based on income, financial need, and length of the marriage

Pre-Divorce Checklist for Kennebunk Residents:

• Collect financial records, including tax returns, bank and investment statements, insurance policies, and prenuptial agreements
• Create a detailed property inventory, including physical, real, and digital assets
• Consult a family law attorney before moving out of the marital home, as this can affect property and custody considerations
• Secure access to digital accounts, and update passwords for financial and personal data
• Consider your children’s needs, both emotional and practical, during the transition
• Open individual financial accounts if appropriate, but speak with your attorney before transferring any funds from joint accounts

Preparing for divorce is not about rushing into conflict. It’s about making informed decisions that protect your future. Our divorce lawyers in Kennebunk are here to guide you through the pre-filing process with care, clarity, and experience.

What are the grounds for divorce in Maine?

In Maine, divorce is a legal process that can be initiated on different grounds, and the choice of grounds can significantly impact the divorce proceedings. Maine recognizes both no-fault and fault-based grounds for divorce, offering couples flexibility in how they approach the dissolution of their marriage.

Here are the key points:

• No-Fault Grounds: In Maine, the primary and often simpler way to pursue a divorce is on no-fault grounds. This means couples can file for divorce without having to prove wrongdoing by either party. A common no-fault reason cited is “irreconcilable differences,” where both spouses agree that the marriage has broken down and there is no reasonable chance of reconciliation.
• Fault-Based Grounds: Maine also allows for fault-based grounds for divorce. These include specific reasons, such as adultery, cruelty, desertion, impotence, substance abuse, and incarceration. In fault-based divorces, one spouse claims that the other’s actions or behavior are the cause of the marital breakdown.
• Choosing the Grounds: Couples have the flexibility to select the grounds that best fit their situation. The choice between no-fault and fault-based grounds can depend on various factors, including the complexity of the case, the desire for a quicker resolution, and the specific circumstances surrounding the divorce.
• Legal Guidance: Given the legal complexities and emotional challenges associated with divorce, seeking legal counsel is advisable. An experienced divorce attorney can provide guidance on the grounds, help navigate the legal process, and work to protect the client’s best interests throughout the divorce proceedings.

Ultimately, the choice of grounds for divorce in Maine may depend on individual circumstances and the specific goals of the divorcing couple. Consulting with an attorney can help ensure that the most suitable approach is taken to address their unique situation.

What you are entitled to in a divorce in Maine?

Divorce in Maine involves various aspects that determine what each party is entitled to. The entitlements during divorce can cover several factors, and understanding these rights is crucial for those going through this legal process in the state.

Here are key entitlements in a Maine divorce:

• Division of Marital Property: In Maine, marital property is typically divided equitably, but not always equally. This division includes assets, real estate, bank accounts, investments, and personal property acquired during the marriage. Property owned before the marriage or received through gift or inheritance may be considered separate property and is generally not subject to division.
• Spousal Support (Alimony): Spousal support, also known as alimony, may be awarded to one spouse if it’s deemed necessary for their financial well-being. Factors such as the duration of the marriage, each spouse’s financial situation, and contributions to the marriage are considered when determining spousal support.
• Child Custody and Support: For couples with children, decisions about child custody and child support are vital. In Maine, the best interests of the child are the primary consideration when determining custody arrangements. Child support is calculated based on state guidelines, considering the financial situations of both parents and the needs of the child.
• Debts and Liabilities: Debts and liabilities acquired during the marriage must also be addressed. These may include mortgages, loans, and credit card debt. In divorce, they are typically divided between the spouses in an equitable manner.
• Legal Representation: Both parties have the right to legal representation during divorce proceedings. Having an experienced divorce attorney is essential to protect one’s interests and ensure that the legal process is followed correctly.
• Prenuptial Agreements: If a couple has a valid prenuptial agreement in place, its terms may impact the division of property, alimony, and other aspects of the divorce. A prenup outlines how assets and debts are to be divided in case of divorce.

Navigating divorce entitlements in Maine can be complex, and outcomes may vary based on individual circumstances.

When your marriage ends, you, your spouse, & your children are about to face one of the most stressful events in your life, wrought with emotions. The number of changes can range from new living spaces, changes in expenses, new parenting plans and schedules, new schools, and maybe even new cities.

These high emotions can impair decision-making so it is important to consider reviewing our tips before starting the process of filing for divorce.

Often divorcing spouses have goals that are completely unreasonable or inconsistent with the law but emotions can weigh heavy and decision making can become difficult.

If you want your divorce or family matter resolved quickly and timely, you need to understand how divorce laws apply in Maine to your case and have a reasonable expectation about the outcome.

This is why it is important to consult an experienced divorce lawyer. Call us at (207) 618-6220 or contact us directly online. We are here to assist your family.

Where do I file for divorce in Location, Maine?

Divorce Courts in York County, Maine

Maine District Court – Biddeford, Maine

Clerk Name: Kathy Jones
Court Address: 25 Adams, Biddeford, Maine 04005
Phone: 207-283-1147
Fax: 207-284-2977

Clerk Hours: 8AM – 4PM

Parking information: Street parking in front of courthouse. Parking lot behind building.