Self Help Tools

Divorce, Custody, & Family
Maine Sexual Assault Resources: Child Sexual Abuse & Normal Child Sexual Behavior
How do I know if my child’s sexualized behavior is normal or a sign of abuse?
Some child sexualized behavior is normal. Other behavior may be a sign of abuse. Here are some resources that may help you know the difference:
Healthcare Resources for Maine Children Who Have Experienced Violence
How does domestic violence affect children?
Violence and trauma can have long-lasting effects on children who witness or experience violent events.
Adoption, Guardianship of a Minor, Child Name Change and Maine's Home Court Act: When, where and how to file the Jurisdictional Affidavit
What is the Maine Home Court Act?
The Home Court Act is a Maine law passed in 2016. It is meant to prevent more than one case about the same child from happening in different courts. Courts use the Jurisdictional Affidavit to find out about all of the cases involving a child. They do this to make sure they are following the Act.
Guardianship of a Minor
How can a family member or other responsible adult become the legal guardian of a child whose parents are unable or unwilling to care for them?
Divorce and Separation: Where Can I Get Help?
Lists resources for people who are separating or going through divorce: where to get legal and financial help, and other support services.
COVID-19
Last Updated 9/14/2020
Is PTLA open? Can I still get help?
To protect our clients and staff, all PTLA offices are closed to the public. If you have a current case, please reach out to our staff by e-mail or phone.
PP 101(T) Petition for Appointment of Temporary Guardian for Minor
The Maine court form to petition for the appointment of a temporary guardian for minor
Probate Jurisdictional Affidavit
The Maine court form for determining the jurisdiction for certain family law and name change cases
PB-003 Jurisdictional Affidavit for Adoption, Minor Guardianship, and Minor Name Change
A fill-able .pdf of Maine court form PB-03, the Jurisdictional Affidavit that must be filed in District court with any adoption, minor guardianship, or minor name change case.
Sample Motion to Waive Adoption Home Study
This is a sample motion you can use to ask the court to waive the home study in an adoption case