Self Help Tools

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: 

How does domestic violence affect children? Violence and trauma can have long-lasting effects on children who witness or experience violent events.

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.

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?

Lists resources for people who are separating or going through divorce: where to get legal and financial help, and other support services.

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.

The Maine court form to petition for the appointment of a temporary guardian for minor

The Maine court form for determining the jurisdiction for certain family law and name change cases

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.

This is a sample motion you can use to ask the court to waive the home study in an adoption case