Best Custody & Visitation in Maine — 2 resources

About Custody & Visitation

Custody and visitation cases are handled at the state and county level, typically through each state's family court or unified family division. Every state follows some version of the 'best interest of the child' standard, but the specifics — how judges weigh parental fitness, how parenting time is structured, how modifications are granted — vary widely. Most states have free self-help centers inside their main courthouses where fathers can get forms, file paperwork, and receive guidance without hiring an attorney. National organizations like the ABA, Cordell & Cordell, and various fathers' rights groups supplement local resources. This directory combines official state court self-help portals, county-level family law facilitators, private family law firms that represent fathers, and fatherhood advocacy organizations — all up to date.

2 Resources

1. Pine Tree Legal Assistance – Family Law — Free

Free legal help for low-income Maine residents handling custody, visitation, parentage, and related family law matters. Fathers can call the Portland office at 207-774-8211 or apply online at ptla.org for an intake screening. Bring photo ID, proof of income, existing court orders, and any paperwork already filed. Services are statewide with walk-in hours Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm.

207-774-8211 · 88 Federal St, Portland, ME 04101 · Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm · Visit Website

2. Maine State Bar – Lawyer Referral

Connects Maine residents with vetted family law attorneys who handle custody, divorce, child support, and paternity cases. Call 207-622-7523 during Mon-Fri 8am-5pm hours to describe your situation and receive a referral. Paid consultations with participating attorneys are typically offered at a reduced initial rate. Fathers statewide can use this service to find local counsel before filing or responding to a motion.

207-622-7523 · 124 State St, Augusta, ME 04330 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

Frequently Asked

How many custody & visitation resources are in Maine?
Men's Corner tracks 2 custody & visitation resources for men and fathers in Maine.
Are custody & visitation resources in Maine free?
1 of the 2 listed custody & visitation resources in Maine are explicitly free or low-cost.
Which cities in Maine have custody & visitation resources?
Listings span cities including Portland, Augusta.
What are some examples of custody & visitation resources in Maine?
Featured entries include Pine Tree Legal Assistance – Family Law, Maine State Bar – Lawyer Referral.
Do these listings include phone numbers?
2 of 2 Maine custody & visitation listings include phone numbers.
Do I need a lawyer to file for custody?
No. Every state has self-represented (pro se) filing options, and most county courthouses have a Family Law Facilitator or Self-Help Center that provides forms and guidance at no cost. A lawyer is strongly recommended if the case is contested, involves abuse allegations, or requires relocation or interstate issues.
How is 'best interest of the child' actually decided?
Judges weigh factors including each parent's ability to provide stability, the child's relationship with each parent, any history of violence or substance abuse, the child's preference (usually after a certain age), work schedules, and each parent's willingness to support the other's relationship with the child. Specific factors are listed in each state's custody statute.
Can I get 50/50 custody as a father?
Yes. Most states now have a presumption of — or strong preference for — joint legal and joint physical custody when both parents are fit and engaged. Fathers who show consistent involvement, stable housing, and willingness to coordinate with the mother have strong odds of receiving substantial parenting time, up to 50/50.
What if my ex violates the custody order?
File a Motion for Contempt or a Motion to Enforce with the court. Document every missed exchange, refused visit, or violation with dates, times, messages, and witnesses. Most courts treat repeated violations seriously, with remedies ranging from make-up time to modification of custody to sanctions.