Residency Requirements

Before filing for divorce in Maine, the spouse filing for divorce must have been a resident of the state for six months.

Grounds

Maine’s no-fault ground for divorce is irreconcilable marital differences.
Maine’s fault-based grounds for divorce include, but are not limited to, adultery, impotence, alcoholism or substance abuse, cruel and inhuman treatment, and desertion for three years.

Child Custody

In an effort to preserve the best interests of the child, custody should be awarded to one parent or to both parents. Joint legal custody is usually granted to the parents, although most often one parent is awarded primary physical custody. Joint physical custody can be agreed upon by the parties or awarded by the court. The child's wishes as to custody shall be considered and given due weight by the court, if the child is sufficiently mature.

Venue

In Maine, an action for divorce may be brought in the division where either the petitioner or the respondent resides.

Mediation

The court will order mediation of issues related to the children in any contested case involving minor children. The court may refer the parties to mediation on any issue, in any case involving domestic relations whether or not children are involved. The parties may voluntarily choose to mediate their disputed issues prior to the initiation of divorce proceedings. By resolving all issues in mediation, the case shall proceed in court on an uncontested basis.

Filing Fees

Court filing fees are in addition to the cost of using CompleteCase.com. This cost may vary by county. Please check with your local courthouse to determine the exact amount.