Maine Family Lawyers

Family lawyers Helping With Complex Legal Issues

When your family is facing a legal issue, finding the right family lawyer near you isn’t just a convenience—it’s essential. Family law in Maine covers a wide range of deeply personal matters, from divorce and custody to child support, protective orders, and adoption. Each case is unique, and the outcome can shape your life for years to come.

Compassionately guiding families in Southern Maine

That’s why it’s so important to work with a skilled and compassionate family law attorney who understands both the emotional complexity and the legal strategy needed to protect your rights.

At The Maine Divorce Group, our attorneys are known for delivering thoughtful, practical solutions to even the most difficult family disputes. Whether you’re navigating a contested divorce or negotiating a child custody agreement, we bring a balanced approach—protecting your interests while helping to reduce conflict where possible.

Clients across Maine turn to us when they need responsive, experienced legal counsel they can count on. If you’re searching for one of the best family law firms in Maine, we’re ready to help guide you forward with clarity, compassion, and results.

At The Maine Divorce Group, we’re best known for our divorce and separation representation—but our family law practice goes much deeper. Whether you’re navigating a divorce, adjusting custody after separation, or protecting your parental rights, our attorneys offer skilled, strategic legal support tailored to Maine’s unique laws and court procedures.

We represent individuals and families across Maine in all types of family law matters, combining legal precision with personal compassion. Clients come to us when they need a family lawyer who listens, understands, and delivers results—especially in emotionally charged or high-stakes situations.

Whether you’re married, divorced, or never married, our family law attorneys can help you protect what matters most: your children, your finances, your safety, and your future.

Every case is different. That’s why we take the time to understand your family dynamics, your goals, and the legal issues involved. Our attorneys will provide you with a clear plan, honest expectations, and strong advocacy—whether you’re working toward a peaceful agreement or preparing for trial.

If you’re looking for a family lawyer in Maine who puts your needs first, reach out to The Maine Divorce Group today for a confidential consultation.

Legal Support for Unmarried Couples in Maine

Protecting Parental Rights, Property, and Family Stability Outside of Marriage

In Maine, unmarried couples who separate often face the same emotional and financial challenges as divorcing spouses—but without the same legal protections. At The Maine Divorce Group, we help individuals in non-marital relationships resolve disputes involving children, property, and support with experienced legal guidance.

While Maine law does not recognize common-law marriage, you still have legal options—especially when parenting or shared assets are involved. Our family law attorneys assist with:

• Establishing paternity and protecting fathers’ rights
• Creating child custody and parenting time agreements
• Pursuing or defending child support orders
• Resolving shared property and financial disputes

Whether you’re ending a long-term relationship or planning ahead to protect your rights, our attorneys will help you understand your legal standing and advocate for fair, lasting solutions.

If you’re in need of a family lawyer who understands the complexities faced by unmarried couples in Maine, The Maine Divorce Group is here to help.

Prenuptial Agreements in Maine: Protect What Matters Most

Plan for the Future with Confidence and Clarity

Prenuptial agreements are no longer just for the wealthy—they’re a practical tool for any couple entering marriage with assets, children from a prior relationship, or business interests. In Maine, a valid prenup can help prevent future disputes and ensure both partners understand their rights and responsibilities.

At The Maine Divorce Group, our family law attorneys work closely with individuals and couples to draft, negotiate, or review prenuptial agreements that are fair, enforceable, and tailored to your needs.

Our prenuptial agreements can address:

• Property and asset division
• Business ownership and inheritance protection
• Spousal support (alimony) provisions
• Debt responsibility and financial transparency

While child custody and child support cannot be predetermined in a prenup, most other financial matters can be resolved in advance—helping to avoid uncertainty or conflict later.

If you’re looking for a trusted family lawyer in Maine to help protect your future through a prenuptial agreement, The Maine Divorce Group is here to guide you every step of the way.

Legal Guidance for Marriage in Maine

Marriage is not just an emotional commitment—it’s a legal partnership with important rights and responsibilities under Maine law. While common-law marriage is not recognized here, formal marriage opens the door to protections related to property, finances, and family decision-making.

At The Maine Divorce Group, our family law attorneys help couples plan for marriage with clarity and legal foresight. Whether you’re preparing to tie the knot or need help navigating the legal side of your relationship, we provide the personalized guidance you need.

We can assist with:

• Marriage license requirements and legal logistics
• Understanding spousal rights and responsibilities under Maine law
• Post-marital agreements and financial planning
• Estate planning for married couples

From pre-wedding legal preparation to long-term planning, our goal is to help you protect your future and enter marriage with confidence.

If you’re seeking experienced family law attorneys in Maine to support your marriage legally and strategically, The Maine Divorce Group is here to help.

Annulments, Legal Separation, and Divorce in Maine

Not every relationship ends the same way, and in Maine, there are multiple legal options for couples who are ready to part ways. Whether you’re seeking to dissolve a marriage, separate while remaining legally married, or challenge the validity of a marriage entirely, The Maine Divorce Group offers compassionate, results-driven legal guidance.

We help clients across Maine understand their options and make informed decisions about which legal path is right for them.

Annulment in Maine

An annulment is a legal declaration that a marriage was never valid in the first place. Unlike divorce, which ends a legally recognized marriage, an annulment erases it as though it never occurred.

To be granted an annulment in Maine, one of the following legal grounds must be proven:

• Fraud or misrepresentation
• One or both parties were underage
• One party was already legally married
• The marriage involved close blood relatives
• Impotence or inability to consummate the marriage
• Temporary insanity or lack of capacity at the time of marriage

Annulments can be complex and require experienced legal counsel. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, a family law attorney near you can help assess your case.

Legal Separation in Maine

A legal separation allows spouses to live apart while remaining legally married. This option may be preferable for couples who have religious, financial, or personal reasons to avoid divorce—but still need court-ordered arrangements for property, finances, or child custody.

During a legal separation, Maine courts can issue binding decisions regarding:

• Division of marital assets and debts
• Child custody and parenting time
• Child support or spousal support (alimony)

Our attorneys can help draft a comprehensive separation agreement that protects your rights and sets clear expectations for both parties.

Divorce Representation in Maine: Guidance Through Every Step

Divorce is one of the most emotionally and financially significant events a person can face—and having the right legal advocate can make all the difference. At The Maine Divorce Group, our experienced family lawyers help clients across Maine navigate divorce with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

Whether your divorce is amicable or contested, we provide personalized legal support through every phase, including:

• Division of marital property and debt
• Spousal support (alimony) negotiations and enforcement
• Child custody, parental responsibilities, and visitation schedules
• Child support calculations and modifications

We take time to understand your goals, protect your rights, and develop a clear strategy that prioritizes your family’s well-being—both during and after divorce.

No-Fault and Fault-Based Divorce in Maine

Maine allows for both no-fault and fault-based divorce filings. Most couples file for divorce under no-fault grounds, citing “irreconcilable marital differences,” which can help reduce conflict and encourage cooperation.

However, fault-based grounds—such as adultery, abuse, or substance misuse—may still be relevant. In some cases, these claims can impact decisions on alimony, child custody, or asset division.

If you’re searching for a knowledgeable divorce lawyer in Maine who will advocate for your interests and guide you through the process step by step, The Maine Divorce Group is here to help.

Family law issues in Maine

Family law in Maine covers a wide range of emotionally sensitive and legally complex matters—from divorce and custody to financial support and paternity. At The Maine Divorce Group, our experienced family lawyers help individuals and families resolve these issues with care, clarity, and strategic focus.

Most family law cases in Maine—whether involving divorce, parenting, or support—are settled outside of court through negotiation, mediation, or attorney-led collaboration. These out-of-court solutions can save time, reduce stress, and give families more control over the outcome.

That said, if a fair resolution isn’t possible, our team is fully prepared to litigate on your behalf. Whether your case is uncontested or high-conflict, we offer experienced legal representation every step of the way.

Divorce Representation in Maine

Divorce is one of the most complex and emotionally charged areas of family law—and no two divorces are alike. At The Maine Divorce Group, our family law attorneys provide comprehensive support to individuals throughout Maine who are navigating the legal, financial, and personal challenges of divorce.

Whether your divorce is uncontested or highly contested, we help you resolve key issues such as:

• Division of marital property and debts
• Spousal support (alimony)
• Parental rights and responsibilities (child custody)
• Child support and parenting time schedules

We also help clients understand the difference between no-fault divorce, the most common type filed in Maine, and fault-based divorce, which may still be relevant when misconduct affects financial or custody outcomes.

Our role is to protect your interests, provide clear legal strategies, and ensure you’re fully informed every step of the way—whether your case is settled through negotiation or decided in court.

If you’re seeking a Maine family lawyer with deep experience in divorce law, The Maine Divorce Group is here to help you take the next step with confidence.

Property Division in a Maine Divorce

Maine follows equitable distribution, meaning marital property is divided fairly—but not always equally. Determining what qualifies as marital vs. separate property can be complex, especially when retirement accounts, business interests, or debt are involved.

Our attorneys help clients:

• Identify and classify assets and liabilities
• Value complex financial holdings
• Negotiate fair property settlements
• Protect long-term financial security

Spousal Support (Alimony) in Maine

Spousal support—commonly referred to as alimony—may be awarded in a Maine divorce to help one spouse transition financially after separation. The court may award support based on several factors, including:

• The length of the marriage
• The financial need and ability of each spouse
• Each party’s income, education, and future earning potential
• Contributions made during the marriage (career, homemaking, etc.)

Whether you’re seeking support or being asked to pay it, our family law attorneys can help you calculate fair amounts, prepare the proper documentation, and advocate for a just result.

Parental Rights & Responsibilities (Child Custody) and Child Support in Maine

Protecting Your Child’s Best Interests in Every Decision

In Maine, what’s often called child custody in other states is legally referred to as parental rights and responsibilities. This includes decisions about where a child lives, how time is shared between parents, and who makes major decisions regarding health, education, and welfare.

Maine family courts prioritize the best interests of the child in every child support and custody case. Parents are encouraged to develop a mutually agreeable parenting plan. If that’s not possible, the court will decide based on factors such as the child’s emotional needs, each parent’s ability to provide care, and the overall family dynamic.

We help parents across Maine with:

• Drafting and negotiating parenting plans
• Establishing or modifying parental rights and responsibilities
• Resolving child custody and visitation disputes
• Accurate child support calculation and enforcement
• Filing for modifications when circumstances change

Whether you are preparing for a separation, facing a custody challenge, or seeking to update an existing agreement, our experienced family law attorneys will help protect your parental rights and secure a stable future for your child.

Relocation with Children in Maine

After divorce or separation, life circumstances often change—whether due to a new job, remarriage, education, or family needs. But in Maine, if you share parental rights and responsibilities (child custody), relocating with your child requires strict legal compliance.

Maine courts focus on the best interests of the child, and relocating without court approval or the other parent’s consent can lead to serious legal consequences—including loss of custody or modification of your current parenting plan.

At The Maine Divorce Group, our family law attorneys help parents:

• Understand relocation laws and notification requirements
• Petition the court for relocation approval
• Present strong arguments for or against a proposed move
• Modify custody or parenting time agreements accordingly

Whether you’re seeking a fresh start or trying to maintain an existing custody arrangement, our team provides strategic, compassionate representation to ensure your rights—and your child’s stability—are protected.

If you’re considering relocating with your child or need to respond to a relocation request, consult with a knowledgeable Maine family lawyer before taking action.

Establishing Paternity in Maine

When a child is born to unmarried parents in Maine, paternity must be legally established before custody, visitation, or child support can be addressed.

Paternity can be established in two ways:

1. By mutual consent – when both parents sign an Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP)
2. By court order – typically through a paternity suit and DNA testing

Paternity cases often arise when:

• Parents separate after having a child together
• A parent seeks to establish legal rights or responsibilities
• The Maine Office for Family Independence (DSER) initiates action in public assistance cases

Our family law attorneys help clients file, respond to, and resolve paternity actions—so you can move forward with confidence in your parental rights and obligations.

Domestic Violence and Protection from Abuse in Maine

Family law isn’t always about separation and support—it’s also about protecting the safety and well-being of those at risk. Unfortunately, domestic violence can occur within intimate relationships or family households, requiring immediate legal intervention.

At The Maine Divorce Group, we help individuals facing domestic abuse or threats of violence obtain court-ordered protection. If you’re searching for a trusted family lawyer near you in Maine to help you stay safe, we’re ready to act quickly and effectively on your behalf.

Domestic Violence: Your Safety Comes First

Domestic violence is a serious offense in Maine, and the courts have clear procedures to protect victims of abuse. Whether it involves physical violence, verbal threats, stalking, emotional abuse, or coercive control, help is available—and fast legal action may be necessary to prevent further harm.

Our Maine family law attorneys are experienced in working with individuals in high-stress, high-risk situations. We handle these cases with urgency, compassion, and discretion, and can help you:

• File for emergency protection
• Gather the documentation and evidence needed
• Represent you in court for a protection order hearing
• Navigate custody and support issues related to domestic abuse

If you’re unsure where to turn, our team is here to stand beside you and prioritize your safety.

Protection From Abuse (PFA) Orders in Maine

A Protection from Abuse (PFA) order is a legal tool issued by Maine courts to protect individuals from harassment, threats, or violence by a family member, partner, or former partner.

This court order may prohibit the abuser from:

• Contacting or approaching the protected person
• Entering the home, workplace, or school
• Possessing firearms
• Harassing, stalking, or causing harm

Violating a PFA order is a criminal offense and can lead to arrest, fines, or jail time.

To obtain a PFA, you typically file in the District Court where you or the alleged abuser resides. Our attorneys can help you with every step of the process—from filing the petition to appearing at the final hearing. If you’re facing false accusations or need to respond to a PFA petition, we also represent clients in contested proceedings to protect their rights.

Contact Our Maine Family Lawyers For Help

No matter what your family is facing—whether you’re navigating divorce, seeking custody, preparing for remarriage, or escaping an abusive situation—you don’t have to face it alone. At The Maine Divorce Group, our experienced family law attorneys provide the compassionate, strategic legal support you need to move forward with confidence.

If you’re searching for a reliable family lawyer near you in Maine, we’re here to help. From your first consultation to the final resolution, we work to protect your rights, your children, and your future.

Contact us today to schedule a confidential case evaluation and learn how we can help with your unique family law matter.