What forms do I need to fill out to begin a court case?
You can get fillable forms online, except for the Summons. You must get the Summons form from the Court Clerk. The Court charges $5.00 for a signed Summons form.
Get the other forms you need here:
Maine Divorce with Children forms
Maine Parental Rights & Responsibilities forms
Or you can go to your local District Court and ask the clerk for a forms packet. Tell the clerk if you are married, if you own property (a house or land), and if you have mutual children. The clerk will give you the right set of court forms. The packet also has a page of instructions telling you what to do with the forms and how to "serve" the other party with the forms.
Again, here are the typical costs of getting a divorce:
- Summons form: $5
- Filing fee: $120
- Service fee: $8-$50 (Cost varies depending on which method of service you use.)
- Mediation fee: $80 (per party; $160 total for two mediation sessions)
If you have a very low income and cannot pay these costs, you can ask the court to pay them for you. Go here to get the forms online. Or ask the clerk for the forms: an Application to Proceed Without Payment of Fees (fee waiver form) and a Financial Affidavit. Check all of the boxes near the top of the fee waiver form to show that you need all costs waived. On the affidavit form, list all of your income and expenses. If you get TANF, SSI, or general assistance, the court should waive the fees. (Contact Pine Tree Legal Assistance if you are denied). If your income is higher, the court will look at your income and expenses and decide whether you qualify for the waiver.