Divorce in Maine
Divorce is never easy — but understanding the process shouldn’t be hard.
At Maine Divorce Guide, we’re here to help you navigate divorce in Maine with confidence, compassion, and clarity. Whether you’re just starting to consider divorce or already in the middle of the process, our easy-to-follow guides explain every step, from filing to final decree.
Your Guide to Divorce in Maine
Maine’s divorce laws are designed to ensure fairness, but the paperwork, forms, and procedures can feel confusing. We simplify the process so you know what to expect — and what to do next.
Explore our step-by-step resources to learn about:
- Filing for Divorce in Maine: Residency rules, forms, fees, and how to serve your spouse.
- Maine Divorce Process: Timelines, mediation, hearings, and what happens in court.
- Property Division: How Maine’s equitable distribution laws affect your assets and debts.
- Child Custody & Support: Understanding Maine’s “best interests of the child” standard.
- Spousal Support (Alimony): When courts award support and how it’s calculated.
- LGBT Divorce in Maine: Equal rights, unique challenges, and family protections.
- High Net Worth Divorce: Handling complex assets, business interests, and tax issues.
Why Choose Maine Divorce Guide?
- Maine-Specific Expertise: Every article focuses on the laws, forms, and courts that apply here — not generic national advice.
- Plain-Language Explanations: We translate complex legal topics into clear, easy-to-understand information.
- Free and Accessible: Our resources are 100% free to use — no memberships, no paywalls.
- Empathetic Guidance: We understand how emotional this process can be. Our goal is to help you move forward with knowledge and confidence.
Moving Forward After Divorce
Divorce marks an ending — but also a new beginning. Our guides don’t stop at court procedures. We also share insights on:
- Co-parenting peacefully and protecting your children’s well-being
- Managing post-divorce finances and rebuilding independence
- Finding emotional support, counseling, and community resources across Maine
Do I Need My Spouse’s Permission to File?
No. You can file for divorce in Maine even if your spouse doesn’t agree or refuses to participate. Once served, they have 30 days to respond — and if they don’t, you can request a default judgment to finalize the divorce without their involvement.
How Long Does a Maine Divorce Take?
The timeline depends on your situation. Uncontested divorces where both spouses agree on all terms can be finalized in a few weeks to a few months. Contested cases that involve disputes over finances, custody, or property may take six months to two years.
Maine has no mandatory separation period, but at least one spouse must have lived in the state for 180 days (six months) before filing.
I Just Moved to Maine. Can I File Right Away?
Not yet. You or your spouse must meet the 180-day residency requirement before filing for divorce in Maine. Once that’s met, you can file in the district court of your county of residence.
Legal Process in Maine
Step 1: Start the Case
File a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the district court and pay the filing fee (about $400).
Step 2: Notify Your Spouse
Serve your spouse with divorce papers through a third party or the sheriff’s office, and file an Affidavit of Service to confirm delivery.
Step 3: Financial Disclosures
Both spouses must provide full financial information — including assets, debts, income, and expenses — to ensure fair property and support decisions.
Step 4: Settle or Go to Court
If you and your spouse agree on all terms, submit a Joint Petition or Stipulation for court approval. If not, the case proceeds through mediation, hearings, or trial for a judge to decide.
Step 5: Finalize the Divorce
Once all issues are resolved, the court issues a Judgment and Decree, officially ending your marriage. This document outlines final orders on property, custody, and support.
🕊️ We’re Here to Help
Whether your divorce is simple or complex, Maine Divorce Guide gives you the knowledge you need to make informed, confident decisions.