Printable Word Version of this Guide
This guide is here to help you through the Maine Court's family law process. We hope that this will help you feel more confident about dealing with the legal system.
You may use this guide if:
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.
A “guardian ad litem” (GAL) is a neutral person the court appoints to investigate what solutions would be in the “best interests of a child.” Here, we are talking about a GAL in a divorce or parental rights and responsibilities case. The GAL will look into the family situation and advise the court on things like:
Posted and up-to-date 8/2022
Starting in June, 2020, Maine courts began allowing video or telephone mediation in Family Matter cases through video or telephone. As of August 2022, some courts have begun in-person mediations again although most mediations will still be over zoom. Check your mediation scheduling notice from the court for information about your mediation. If you are still unsure, call the district court presiding over your case to ask whether your mediation will be in person or online.
Posted and up-to-date on 9/19/2022
Many COVID-19 pandemic safety rules have been changed or lifted, but some court meetings are still being held remotely. When in doubt, you should always check the notice you get for your court date. Here are some common things to be aware of as we transition out of the pandemic.
This is Maine court form for ordering the payment of child support
