4 M.R.S. § 807-B — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 17 / Section 807-B
4 §807-B. Authorized immigration and nationality law assistance
Status: in_force

1. Short title. This section may be known and cited as "the Immigration and Nationality Law Assistance Act." [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).]

2. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Compensation" means money, property, the reciprocal exchange of services or anything else of value. [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).] B. "Federally authorized immigration representative" means an attorney who is admitted to and in good standing before the bar of a state of the United States other than Maine, or other person who is authorized to represent another in immigration and nationality law matters to the extent allowed under federal law or regulations, including 8 Code of Federal Regulations, Sections 292.1 and 1292.1 (1996), with such representation specifically limited to federal immigration and nationality law matters. [RR 2005, c. 2, §2 (COR).] C. "Immigration and nationality law assistance" means assistance on an immigration and nationality law matter. [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).] D. "Immigration form" means a form created by the United States Department of Homeland Security, the United States Department of Justice, the United States Department of Labor, the United States Department of State or other federal agency charged with implementing federal immigration and nationality laws for use in an immigration and nationality law matter. [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).] E. "Immigration and nationality law matter" means any application, proceeding, filing or other action before an agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security, the United States Department of Justice, the United States Department of Labor or the United States Department of State or other federal agency charged with implementing federal immigration and nationality laws regarding the nonimmigrant, immigrant or citizenship status of or the admission to or removal from the United States of a person that arises from the application of a federal immigration and nationality law, executive order or presidential proclamation. [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).] F. "Nonlegal immigration and nationality law assistance" is limited to: (1) Translating from English into a customer's primary language questions on an immigration form selected by the customer so that the customer can understand the questions and does not include advising the customer as to the appropriateness of the immigration form selected by the customer or suggesting which immigration form to use; (2) Translating from a customer's primary language into English and otherwise transcribing to an immigration form the customer's answers to questions on that form and does not include advising the customer as to the appropriateness of the immigration form selected by the customer or suggesting which immigration form to use or as to the customer's answers on that immigration form; (3) Securing or assisting the customer to secure supporting documents currently in existence, such as birth and marriage certificates, that may be needed for submission with immigration forms and does not include drafting of affidavits or other documents that may need to accompany immigration forms; and (4) Making referrals for legal representation with respect to an immigration and nationality law matter to an attorney admitted to and in good standing before the bar of the State or to a federally authorized immigration representative duly authorized by federal law and regulations to undertake such representation. [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).] [RR 2005, c. 2, §2 (COR).]

3. Nonlegal immigration and nationality law assistance authorized. A person offering immigration and nationality law assistance may offer or provide only nonlegal immigration and nationality law assistance, except, however, that an attorney admitted to and in good standing before the bar of the State or a federally authorized immigration representative may provide immigration and nationality law assistance in the form of representation to the extent authorized by federal laws and regulations in immigration proceedings before agencies of the United States Department of Homeland Security, the United States Department of Justice, the United States Department of Labor or the United States Department of State or other federal agency charged with carrying out the implementation of federal immigration and nationality laws. Nothing in this section is intended to nor does it authorize either an attorney who is not admitted to and in good standing before the bar of the State or a federally authorized immigration representative to offer legal opinions or general legal advice regarding state laws or to represent another before any state court, administrative agency or other forum charged with interpreting or implementing state laws. [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).]

4. Prohibited activities. In the course of dealing with customers or prospective customers, a provider of immigration and nationality law assistance may not: A. Make a statement that the provider of immigration and nationality law assistance can or will obtain special favors from or has special influence with an agency or a tribunal of the United States Government or of any state government; [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).] B. Retain compensation for services not performed; [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).] C. Refuse to return documents supplied by, prepared by, paid for by or obtained on behalf of the customer and requested by the customer, regardless of whether there is outstanding compensation owed to the provider of immigration and nationality law assistance by the customer or a fee dispute between the provider of immigration and nationality law assistance and the customer; [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).] D. Fail to complete and sign, in the space provided, an immigration form that requests the preparer's name, address, telephone number or signature, even if the provider of immigration and nationality law assistance has only provided nonlegal immigration and nationality law assistance in the preparation of the immigration form; [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).] E. Provide legal advice regarding immigration and nationality law matters, including selecting immigration forms for a customer or advising a customer as to the appropriateness of the forms the customer has selected or as to the customer's answers to the questions on the forms, unless the provider of immigration and nationality law assistance is an attorney admitted to and in good standing before the bar of the State or is a federally authorized immigration representative; or [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).] F. Represent or advertise or provide notice in any way or manner, including, but not limited to, the assertion of a title or credential such as "notario," "immigration consultant," "immigration agent," "immigration assistant" or "attorney," that could cause a customer to believe that the provider of immigration and nationality law assistance is authorized to practice law in the State or possesses special skill or expertise in immigration and nationality law matters unless the provider is an attorney admitted to and in good standing before the bar of the State or is a federally authorized immigration representative. A federally authorized immigration representative whose principal place of business is in the State shall give verbal notice to customers that the federally authorized immigration representative is not an attorney admitted to the bar of the State and may not give general legal advice or representation under state law and shall also include language in any written advertisement, notice or contract for services that clearly conveys that the federally authorized immigration representative is not an attorney admitted to practice law in the State and may not give general legal advice or assistance under state law. [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).]

5. Unfair method of competition or unfair and deceptive act or practice. A violation of this section substantially affects the public interest and constitutes an unfair method of competition and a deceptive act or practice in the conduct of trade or commerce for purposes of the Maine Unfair Trade Practices Act. [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).]

6. Civil violation. A violation of this section constitutes a civil violation for which a fine of not more than $5,000 may be adjudged. [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).]

7. Civil action. In addition to any other remedy that may be available, a customer who is aggrieved by a violation of this section may initiate a civil action in the Superior Court against the violator for injunctive relief or damages or both. If the court finds a violation of this section, the court may award to the customer: A. An amount equal to actual damages sustained by the customer as a result of the violation; [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).] B. An amount equal to 3 times the actual damages; and [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).] C. The costs of the action together with reasonable attorney's fees as determined by the court. [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).]

8. Attorney General action; report. Whenever the Attorney General has reason to believe that a person within the State has engaged in or is engaging in activities that violate this section, the Attorney General may initiate an action in the Superior Court to enforce this section. The Attorney General, by January 1, 2007, and every January 1st thereafter, shall submit a report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over judiciary matters on the number and circumstances of all investigations that the Department of the Attorney General has initiated in the preceding year relating to violations of this section. [PL 2005, c. 629, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 9 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 9
4 §9. Power to prescribe rules in criminal cases
Status: in_force

The Supreme Judicial Court shall have the power and authority to prescribe, repeal, add to, amend or modify rules of pleading, practice and procedure with respect to any and all proceedings through final judgment, review and post-conviction remedy in criminal cases before justices of the peace, District Courts, Superior Courts and the Supreme Judicial Court. [PL 1987, c. 736, §1 (AMD).]

Such rules shall take effect on such date not less than 6 months after their promulgation as the Supreme Judicial Court may set. After their promulgation the Supreme Judicial Court may repeal, amend, modify or add to such rules from time to time without a waiting period. After the effective date of said rules as promulgated or amended, all laws in conflict therewith shall be of no further force or effect.
4 M.R.S. § 1 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 1
4 §1. Constitution of the court; administrative responsibilities of the court and the Chief Justice
Status: in_force

The Supreme Judicial Court, as heretofore established, consists of a Chief Justice and 6 associate justices and such Active Retired Justices as may be appointed and serving on said court, learned in the law and of sobriety of manners. [PL 2009, c. 213, Pt. QQ, §1 (AMD).]

The Chief Justice is the head of the judicial branch of the State. In the event of the Chief Justice's disability for any cause, the senior associate, not under disability, shall perform any and all of the duties of the Chief Justice. [PL 2009, c. 213, Pt. QQ, §1 (AMD).]

The Supreme Judicial Court has general administrative and supervisory authority over the judicial branch and shall make and promulgate rules, regulations and orders governing the administration of the judicial branch. [PL 2009, c. 213, Pt. QQ, §1 (AMD).]

The Chief Justice, as head of the judicial branch, shall prepare the budget for the judicial branch. The Chief Justice may approve financial orders for transfers and revisions of and increases to allotment within the judicial branch in accordance with procedures for financial orders established in the executive branch. The Chief Justice shall provide a copy of each approved financial order to the Department of Administrative and Financial Services, Bureau of the Budget and the Office of Fiscal and Program Review. [PL 2011, c. 655, Pt. W, §1 (AMD).]

The Chief Justice, as the head of the judicial branch, shall, in accordance with the rules, regulations and orders of the Supreme Judicial Court, be responsible for the efficient operation of the judicial branch and for the expeditious dispatch of litigation therein and for the proper conduct of business in all courts. The Chief Justice may require reports from all courts in the State and may issue orders and regulations necessary for the efficient operation of the judicial branch and the prompt and proper administration of justice. [PL 2009, c. 213, Pt. QQ, §1 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 10-A — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 10-A
4 §10-A. Annual training; domestic violence and child abuse issues
Status: in_force

The Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court shall establish annual training and education designed to inform Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court on domestic violence and child abuse, neglect and maltreatment issues. [PL 2021, c. 723, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 1610-S — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1610-S
4 §1610-S. Additional securities for correctional facilities
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any limitation on the amount of securities that may be issued pursuant to section 1606, subsection 2 , the authority may issue additional securities in an amount not to exceed $25,000,000 outstanding at any one time for capital repairs and improvements to and construction of correctional facilities. [PL 2025, c. 388, Pt. J, §2 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 1353 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 27 / Section 1353
4 §1353. Disability retirement
Status: in_force

1. Conditions. Any member who becomes disabled while in service may receive a disability retirement allowance by order of at least 5 Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court or upon written application to the executive director and approval of that application by at least 5 of the Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court if that member is mentally or physically incapacitated to the extent that it is impossible for that member to perform the duties as a judge and the incapacity is expected to be permanent, as shown by medical examination or tests. A health care provider mutually agreed upon by the executive director and member shall conduct the examinations or tests at an agreed upon place, and the costs must be paid by the Maine Public Employees Retirement System. A. [PL 1991, c. 887, §1 (RP).] B. [PL 1991, c. 887, §1 (RP).] [PL 2021, c. 277, §8 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 277, §45 (AFF).]

1-A. Eligibility for disability. A. A member with less than 5 years of creditable service preceding that member's last date of service is not eligible for a disability retirement allowance if that disability is the result of a physical or mental condition that existed prior to the person's latest membership in a retirement program of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System, unless the disability is a result of, or has been substantially aggravated by, an injury or accident received in the line of duty. [PL 2025, c. 221, §6 (AMD).] B. [PL 1997, c. 384, §1 (RP).] [PL 2025, c. 221, §6 (AMD).]

2. Amount. When a member qualified under subsection 1 and, if applicable, subsection 1‑A, paragraph A , retires, the amount of a disability retirement allowance is 59% of the member's average final compensation. The 59% level must be reviewed for cost-neutral comparability as a part of the actuarial investigation provided under Title 5, section 17107, subsection 2, paragraph E , beginning with the investigation made January 1, 1997 and every 6 years after that time. The review that takes place every 6 years must compare actual experience under the disability plans with actuarial assumptions regarding election and costs of benefits under the new options elected and identify possible options for compliance with the federal Older Workers Benefit Protection Act that protect benefits for employees without additional cost to the State and participating local districts. A member who by election remains covered under subsection 1 as written prior to its amendment by Public Law 1991, chapter 887, section 1 may receive a disability retirement allowance when, in addition to meeting the requirements of subsection 1 , the member has not completed the eligibility requirements for retirement under section 1351, subsection 1 , 1‑A or 2 . When such a member is entitled to receive a disability retirement allowance, the amount of the allowance is 66 2/3% of the member's average final compensation. [PL 1997, c. 384, §2 (AMD).]

3. Commencement. Disability retirement allowance payments shall commence on the first day of the month following the date of termination of active service of the member. Termination of active service shall create a vacancy on the court. [PL 1989, c. 133, §29 (AMD).]

4. Continuance. Payment of a disability retirement allowance must continue subject to subsection 7 and the following conditions. A. During the first 2 years, the allowance continues as long as the beneficiary cannot perform the duties of a judge. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §45 (COR).] B. After that period, the allowance continues only if the beneficiary is unable to engage in any substantially gainful activities for which the beneficiary is qualified by training, education or experience. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §45 (COR).] C. The executive director may require the beneficiary to undergo annual medical examinations or tests for the purpose of determining whether the beneficiary is incapacitated. These examinations or tests must be conducted by a health care provider, mutually agreed upon by the executive director and beneficiary, at a place also mutually agreed upon, and the costs of the examination or tests must be paid by the Maine Public Employees Retirement System. If the beneficiary refuses to submit to an examination or tests, the beneficiary's disability allowance ceases until the beneficiary agrees to the examination or tests. If the beneficiary's refusal continues for one year, all rights to any further benefits under this section terminate. [PL 2021, c. 277, §9 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 277, §45 (AFF).] D. For purposes of this subsection, the disability beneficiary's average final compensation at retirement must be used to determine the beneficiary's earning capacity in the relation to the beneficiary's ability to engage in a substantially gainful activity. It must be adjusted by the same percentage, if any, as applied to the beneficiary's retirement allowance under section 1358 . [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §45 (COR).] [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §45 (COR).]

5. Earnings. The chief executive officer may require each disability beneficiary to submit an annual statement of earnings received from any gainful occupation during that year. For any year during which the total of those earnings and the disability allowance exceeds the current salary of the position that the disabled beneficiary last held, the excess must be deducted from any disability retirement allowance payments made to the beneficiary in accordance with Title 5, section 17054, subsection 3 . The beneficiary is responsible for reimbursing the Maine Public Employees Retirement System for any excess earnings not so deducted. If a beneficiary does not submit an earnings statement within 30 days of receiving a request from the chief executive officer, the disability retirement allowance is discontinued until the statement is submitted. If the statement is not submitted within one year of receiving a request, all the beneficiary's rights to any further benefits cease. [PL 2025, c. 221, §7 (AMD).]

6. Reduction. The disability retirement allowance must be reduced if a disability beneficiary is receiving or has received payments for the same disability under the workers' compensation law, or similar law, except for amounts that may be paid or payable under former Title 39, section 56 or 56-A or Title 39‑A, section 212, subsection 2 or 3 . The total of the allowance, not including adjustments under section 1358 and the payment described in the preceding paragraph, may not exceed 80% of the beneficiary's average final compensation. The disability retirement allowance may in no event be reduced below the actuarial equivalent of the beneficiary's accumulated contributions at the time of retirement. If the disability beneficiary has received a lump-sum settlement of workers' compensation benefits, any portion of that settlement not attributable to vocational rehabilitation, attorneys' fees or medical expenses must reduce the disability retirement allowance in the same manner and amount as monthly workers' compensation benefits. The reduction must be prorated on a monthly basis in an equitable manner prescribed by the board. If amounts paid or payable under workers' compensation or the amount of the lump-sum settlement or its attribution are in dispute, those disputes must be settled by a single member of the Workers' Compensation Board as provided under Title 39‑A . Determinations of the commissioner may be appealed in the manner provided by Title 39‑A, section 322 . [PL 1991, c. 885, Pt. E, §5 (AMD); PL 1991, c. 885, Pt. E, §47 (AFF).]

7. Change to service retirement. A. The disability retirement allowance of a beneficiary must cease whenever the service retirement allowance of the beneficiary would equal or exceed the amount of the member's disability retirement allowance. For a member who by election or by having retired on disability retirement prior to October 16, 1992 remains covered under this section as written prior to its amendment by Public Law 1991, chapter 887, section 3, the disability retirement allowance must cease at age 70, or prior to that age, whenever the service retirement allowance would equal or exceed the amount of the disability retirement allowance. [PL 1997, c. 384, §3 (AMD).] B. A service retirement allowance shall be paid to the beneficiary commencing on the date of termination of the disability retirement allowance as determined in paragraph A . [PL 1983, c. 853, Pt. C, §§15, 18 (NEW).] [PL 1997, c. 384, §3 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1233 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 27 / Section 1233
4 §1233. Actuary
Status: in_force

The actuary of the other programs of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System is the Actuary of the Judicial Retirement Program. [PL 2007, c. 491, §37 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1610-K — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1610-K
4 §1610-K. Additional securities for capital repairs and improvements and hazardous waste cleanup (REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 4, SECTION 1610-J)
Status: in_force

(REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 4, SECTION 1610-J)

Notwithstanding any limitation on the amount of securities that may be issued pursuant to section 1606, subsection 2 , the authority may issue additional securities in an amount not to exceed $30,000,000 outstanding at any one time for capital repairs and improvements to state-owned facilities and hazardous waste cleanup on state-owned properties. [PL 2017, c. 475, Pt. A, §1 (RAL).]
4 M.R.S. § 1610-J — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1610-J
4 §1610-J. Additional securities for capital construction, repairs and improvements (REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 4, SECTION 1610-I)
Status: in_force

(REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 4, SECTION 1610-I)

Notwithstanding any limitation on the amount of securities that may be issued pursuant to section 1606, subsection 2 , as limited by section 1610‑A , the authority may issue additional securities in an amount not to exceed $149,700,000 outstanding at any one time to pay for capital construction, repairs and improvements to the Maine Correctional Center in South Windham and a facility owned by the Department of Corrections in Washington County. [PL 2017, c. 288, Pt. A, §2 (RAL).] Revisor's Note: §1610-J. Additional securities for capital repairs and improvements and hazardous waste cleanup (As enacted by PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. FF, §1 is REALLOCATED TO TITLE 4, SECTION 1610-K)
4 M.R.S. § 53 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 53
4 §53. Sessions
Status: in_force

For the purpose of appellate review by the Supreme Judicial Court sitting as a law court, the State shall constitute one district. The number of sessions of the law court in each year and the method of determining the time and place thereof shall be in accordance with rules promulgated by the Supreme Judicial Court. [PL 1969, c. 354 (RPR).]
4 M.R.S. § 308 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 7 / Section 308
4 §308. Certification of unfinished acts of predecessor judge
Status: in_force

Every judge, upon entering on the duties of that judge's office, shall examine the records, decrees, certificates and all proceedings connected therewith that the judge's predecessor left unsigned or unauthenticated. If the judge finds them correct, the judge shall sign and authenticate them and they are then as valid to all intents and purposes as if such duty had been done by the judge's predecessor while in office. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §12 (COR).]
4 M.R.S. § 772 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 15 / Section 772
4 §772. Relationship to party or proceeding; prohibition
Status: in_force

1. Prohibition. A court reporter or a court reporting services provider may not provide court reporting services for a legal proceeding if that court reporter or the court reporting services provider: A. Has a contractual relationship with a party or an attorney, representative, agent or insurer of a party, other than a contract to provide court reporting, litigation and trial support services; [PL 2013, c. 298, §1 (NEW).] B. Engages in any prohibited actions set forth in section 773 ; or [PL 2013, c. 298, §1 (NEW).] C. Is a party. [PL 2013, c. 298, §1 (NEW).] A court reporter may not provide court reporting services for a legal proceeding if the court reporter is a relative, employee or attorney of one of the parties or is a relative, employee or attorney of a person with a financial interest in the action or its outcome. [PL 2013, c. 298, §1 (NEW).]

2. Reasonable effort to determine; requirement. Prior to the provision of court reporting services, a court reporter or court reporting services provider shall make reasonable efforts to determine whether the provision of court reporting services is prohibited under this subchapter. [PL 2013, c. 298, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 1914 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 39 / Section 1914
4 §1914. Foreign notarial act
Status: in_force

1. Foreign state. As used in this section, "foreign state" means a government other than the United States, a state or a federally recognized Indian tribe. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]

2. Foreign notarial acts recognized. If a notarial act is performed under authority and in the jurisdiction of a foreign state or constituent unit of a foreign state or is performed under the authority of a multinational or international governmental organization, the act has the same effect under the laws of this State as if performed by a notarial officer of this State. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]

3. Digest or list conclusive. If the title of office and indication of authority to perform notarial acts in a foreign state appears in a digest of foreign law or in a list customarily used as a source for that information, the authority of an officer with that title to perform notarial acts is conclusively established. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]

4. Prima facie evidence. The signature and official stamp of an individual holding an office described in subsection 3 are prima facie evidence that the signature is genuine and the individual holds the designated title. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]

5. Hague Convention. An apostille in the form prescribed by the Hague Convention of October 5, 1961 and issued by a foreign state party to the Convention conclusively establishes that the signature of the notarial officer is genuine and that the officer holds the indicated office. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]

6. Consular authentication. A consular authentication issued by an individual designated by the United States Department of State as a notarizing officer for performing notarial acts overseas and attached to the record with respect to which the notarial act is performed conclusively establishes that the signature of the notarial officer is genuine and that the officer holds the indicated office. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]
4 M.R.S. § 1201 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 27 / Section 1201
4 §1201. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context indicates otherwise, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 1983, c. 853, Pt. C, §§ 15, 18 (NEW).]

1. Accumulated contributions. "Accumulated contributions" means the sum of all the amounts credited to a member's individual account, together with regular interest thereon. [PL 1983, c. 853, Pt. C, §§ 15, 18 (NEW).]

2. Actuarial equivalent. "Actuarial equivalent" means an amount of equal value when computed at the discount rate contained in actuarial assumptions adopted by the board of trustees. [PL 2021, c. 548, §2 (AMD).]

3. Average final compensation. "Average final compensation" means: A. The average annual rate of earnable compensation of a member during the 3 years of creditable service as a judge, not necessarily consecutive, in which the member's annual rate of earnable compensation is highest; or [PL 1989, c. 133, §15 (NEW).] B. The average annualized rate of earnable compensation of a member during the entire period of creditable service if that period is less than 3 years. [PL 1989, c. 133, §15 (NEW).] If a member took one or more days off without pay during the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2002, as authorized by the State Court Administrator, and the member elects to make the contribution provided for in section 1306 , the average final compensation must be determined as if the member had not taken those days off without pay. [PL 2003, c. 486, §1 (AMD).]

4. Beneficiary. "Beneficiary" means any person who receives or is designated to receive a benefit provided by this chapter. [PL 1983, c. 853, Pt. C, §§ 15, 18 (NEW).]

5. Board of trustees. "Board of trustees" means the board provided for in section 1231 . [PL 1983, c. 863, Pt. B, §§ 8, 45 (AMD).]

6. Child or children. [PL 1989, c. 133, §16 (RP).]

6-A. Dependent child. "Dependent child" means: A. Any unmarried, natural or legally adopted, born or unborn member's progeny, who is: (1) Under 18 years of age; or (2) Under 22 years of age and a full-time student; or [PL 1989, c. 133, §17 (NEW).] B. Regardless of age or marital status, any other progeny certified by an independent health care provider or the medical review service provider to be permanently mentally incompetent or permanently physically incapacitated and determined by the executive director to be unable to engage in any substantially gainful employment. [PL 2021, c. 277, §3 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 277, §45 (AFF).] [PL 2021, c. 277, §3 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 277, §45 (AFF).]

7. Consumer Price Index. "Consumer Price Index" means the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, CPI-U, as compiled by the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics; or, if the index is revised or superseded, the board shall employ the Consumer Price Index compiled by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, United States Department of Labor that the board of trustees finds to be most reflective of changes in the purchasing power of the dollar for the broadest population of consumers, including retired consumers. [PL 2003, c. 387, §1 (AMD).]

8. Creditable service. "Creditable service" means membership service and prior service as a judge which is credited towards retirement in accordance with subchapter IV . [PL 1983, c. 863, Pt. B, §§ 8, 45 (AMD).]

8-A. Duly acknowledged. "Duly acknowledged" means acknowledged pursuant to chapter 39 or through an electronic identification process designated in a rule established by the board of trustees. [PL 2025, c. 221, §2 (NEW).]

9. Earnable compensation. "Earnable compensation" means the annual salary as a judge. Any money paid by the State under an annuity contract for the future benefit of a judge must be considered part of the judge's earnable compensation. The earnable compensation of a member retired with a disability retirement allowance under section 1353 must be assumed, for the purposes of determining benefits under this chapter, to be continued after the member's date of termination of service at the same rate as received immediately prior thereto, subject to the same percentage adjustments, if any, that may apply to the amount of retirement allowance of the beneficiary under section 1358 . For a member who served as a judge any time between July 1, 2003 and June 30, 2005, earnable compensation includes the salary that would have been paid for a judge in the given year if the cost-of-living adjustments in fiscal year 2003-04 and fiscal year 2004-05 had been funded. For a member who served as a judge any time between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011, earnable compensation includes the salary that would have been paid for a judge in that year if the cost-of-living adjustment in fiscal year 2010-11 had been funded. [PL 2009, c. 571, Pt. MMMM, §1 (AMD); PL 2009, c. 571, Pt. MMMM, §3 (AFF).]

10. Father. [PL 1989, c. 133, §18 (RP).]

10-A. Health care provider. "Health care provider" means an appropriately licensed, certified or registered provider of mental or physical health care, in either the public or private sector. [PL 2021, c. 277, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 277, §45 (AFF).]

11. Fiduciary. "Fiduciary" means a bank or a professional investment manager. [PL 1983, c. 853, Pt. C, §§ 15, 18 (NEW).]

11-A. Internal Revenue Code. "Internal Revenue Code" or "Code" means the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. [PL 2009, c. 474, §6 (NEW).]

12. Judge. "Judge" means a Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court or the Superior Court, any Judge of the District Court, any Administrative Court Judge or any Associate Administrative Court Judge who is actively serving as of December 1, 1984, or who is appointed subsequent to December 1, 1984, but does not include Active Retired Judges. [PL 2001, c. 12, §1 (AMD).]

12-A. Medical provider. [PL 2021, c. 277, §5 (RP); PL 2021, c. 277, §45 (AFF).]

12-B. Medical review service provider. "Medical review service provider" means an entity with whom the executive director has contracted for the review of medical records and the provision of recommendations, opinions and certifications under this chapter by health care providers employed by the entity. [PL 2021, c. 277, §6 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 277, §45 (AFF).]

13. Member. "Member" means a judge who is included in the membership of the Maine Judicial Retirement System as provided in section 1301 . [PL 1983, c. 853, Pt. C, §§ 15, 18 (NEW).]

14. Membership service. "Membership service" means service rendered while a member of the Maine Judicial Retirement System for which credit is allowed under section 1302 . [PL 1983, c. 853, Pt. C, §§ 15, 18 (NEW).]

15. Mother. [PL 1989, c. 133, §18 (RP).]

16. Parent. [PL 1989, c. 133, §18 (RP).]

16-A. Prior service. "Prior service" means all service before December 1, 1984, as a judge. [PL 1983, c. 863, Pt. B, §§ 9, 45 (NEW).]

17. Regular interest. "Regular interest" means interest at the rate which the Board of Trustees of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System sets from time to time, in accordance with Title 5, section 17156 . [PL 1989, c. 502, Pt. A, §10 (AMD); PL 2007, c. 58, §3 (REV).]

18. Retirement. "Retirement" means the termination of membership service with a retirement allowance granted under this chapter. [PL 1983, c. 853, Pt. C, §§ 15, 18 (NEW).]

19. Spouse. "Spouse" means the person currently legally married to a member. [PL 1989, c. 133, §19 (AMD).]

19-A. Survive or surviving. "Survive" or "surviving" means to live, by clear and convincing evidence, for at least 120 hours after the death of the qualifying member or family member, as applicable. [PL 2025, c. 221, §3 (NEW).]

20. Surviving spouse. "Surviving spouse" means the spouse who survives the death of the member or former member. [PL 2025, c. 221, §4 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 57 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 57
4 §57. Jurisdiction; disposition of cases; technical errors in pleading and procedure
Status: in_force

The following cases only come before the court as a court of law: Cases on appeal from the District Court, the Superior Court or a single Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court or from the probate courts; questions of law arising on reports of cases, including interlocutory orders or rulings of such importance as to require, in the opinion of the justice, review by the Law Court before any further proceedings in the action; agreed statement of facts; cases presenting a question of law; all questions arising in cases in which equitable relief is sought; motions to dissolve injunctions issued after notice and hearing or continued after a hearing; questions arising on habeas corpus, mandamus and certiorari and questions of state law certified by the federal courts. They must be marked "law" on the docket of the county or district where they are pending, and there continued until their determination is certified by the Clerk of the Law Court to the clerk of courts of the county and the court shall immediately after the decision of the question submitted to it make such order, direction, judgment or decree as is fit and proper for the disposal of the case, and cause a rescript in all civil actions, briefly stating the points therein decided, to be filed therein, which rescript must be certified by the Clerk of the Law Court to the clerk of courts of the county or district where the action is pending and to the Reporter of Decisions. If no further opinion is written out, the reporter shall publish in the next volume of reports thereafter issued the case, together with such rescript, if the reporter deems the same of sufficient importance for publication. [PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §2 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]

When the issues of law presented in any case before the Law Court can be clearly understood, they must be decided, and a case may not be dismissed by the Law Court for technical errors in pleading alone or for want of proper procedure if the record of the case presents the merits of the controversy between the parties. Whenever, in the opinion of the Law Court, the ends of justice require, it may remand any case to the court below or to any justice or judge thereof for the correction of any errors in pleading or procedure. In remanding said case, the Law Court may set the time within which said correction must be made and said case reentered in the Law Court. [PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §2 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]

When it appears to the Supreme Court of the United States, or to any court of appeals or district court of the United States, that there is involved in any proceeding before it one or more questions of law of this State, which may be determinative of the cause, and there are no clear controlling precedents in the decisions of the Supreme Judicial Court, such federal court may certify any such questions of law of this State to the Supreme Judicial Court for instructions concerning such questions of state law, which certificate the Supreme Judicial Court sitting as the Law Court may, by written opinion, answer. [PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §2 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]
4 M.R.S. § 1802 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 37 / Section 1802
4 §1802. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 2009, c. 419, §2 (NEW).]

1. Assigned counsel. "Assigned counsel" means a private attorney designated by the commission to provide indigent legal services at public expense. [PL 2009, c. 419, §2 (NEW).]

1-A. Appellate counsel. "Appellate counsel" means an attorney who is entitled to payment under Title 15, section 2115‑A, subsection 8 or 9 . [PL 2013, c. 159, §10 (NEW).]

2. Commission. "Commission" means the Maine Commission on Public Defense Services under section 1801 . [PL 2023, c. 558, §4 (AMD).]

3. Contract counsel. "Contract counsel" means a private attorney under contract with the commission to provide indigent legal services. [PL 2009, c. 419, §2 (NEW).]

3-A. Employed counsel. "Employed counsel" means an attorney employed by the commission to provide indigent legal services in civil proceedings. [PL 2025, c. 415, §1 (AMD).]

4. Indigent legal services. "Indigent legal services" means legal representation provided to: A. An indigent defendant in a criminal case in which the United States Constitution or the Constitution of Maine or federal or state law requires that the State provide representation; [PL 2009, c. 419, §2 (NEW).] B. An indigent party in a civil case in which the United States Constitution or the Constitution of Maine or federal or state law requires that the State provide representation; [PL 2019, c. 427, §1 (AMD).] C. Juvenile defendants; and [PL 2019, c. 427, §1 (AMD).] D. An indigent defendant or party or a juvenile for the purpose of filing, on behalf of that indigent defendant or party or juvenile, a petition for certiorari to the Supreme Court of the United States from an adverse decision of the Law Court on a case for which services were previously provided to that defendant or party or juvenile pursuant to paragraph A , B or C . [PL 2019, c. 427, §2 (NEW).] "Indigent legal services" does not include the services of a guardian ad litem appointed pursuant to Title 22, section 4005, subsection 1 . [PL 2021, c. 676, Pt. A, §3 (AMD).]

5. Public defender. "Public defender" means an attorney employed by the commission to provide indigent legal services in criminal and juvenile proceedings. [PL 2025, c. 415, §2 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 156 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 5 / Section 156
4 §156. Rules
Status: in_force

1. Pending new rules. Pending promulgation of new rules as provided in subsection 2 : A. The rules of procedure now in effect for cases and proceedings within the jurisdiction vested by this chapter in the District Court shall apply. B. Appeals from the District Court shall be heard de novo in the Superior Court.

2. Rules. The Supreme Judicial Court is empowered to make and amend rules of procedure for the District Court and for appeals from the District Court.
4 M.R.S. § 559 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 13 / Section 559
4 §559. Completion of records of deceased clerk
Status: in_force

Under direction of the Superior Court, the clerk shall complete unfinished records of a former clerk deceased, when from entries on the dockets and papers on file it sufficiently appears what judgment was rendered. Such record, when approved by the court, is valid.
4 M.R.S. § 25 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 25
4 §25. Reimbursement of counties for salaries and expenses of court and jury officers
Status: in_force

The Judicial Department shall compensate each county for those reasonable costs related to salaries and expenses as agreed upon between the Judicial Department and the respective county. The compensation may be only for the number of court security officers requested to serve the court either in that county or another by the Judicial Department. [PL 1991, c. 570, §2 (AMD).]

The Judicial Department shall include sufficient funds for this compensation within its operating budget. [PL 1991, c. 570, §2 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 164 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 5 / Section 164
4 §164. Duties of Chief Judge
Status: repealed

The Chief Judge shall be responsible to and under the supervision of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court for the operation of the District Court and shall serve as Chief Judge at the pleasure of the Chief Justice. To this end the Chief Judge shall: [PL 1975, c. 408, §14 (AMD).]

1. Hold court when necessary. Hold court in any division when the Chief Judge determines it necessary by reason of illness, absence or disability of the judge regularly assigned or by reason of an excessive case load in any district; [PL 2019, c. 475, §43 (AMD).]

1-A. Appoint bail commissioners. Appoint bail commissioners pursuant to Title 15, section 1023 , for any district; [PL 1995, c. 462, Pt. A, §3 (RPR).]

2. Assign judges. Assign judges to hold court in any division where, in the judgment of the Chief Judge, they are needed; [PL 1993, c. 675, Pt. B, §6 (AMD).]

3. Days and hours for holding court. Fix the days and hours for holding court in each division; [PL 1991, c. 824, Pt. A, §2 (AMD).]

4. Vacations. Determine the times for the taking of vacations by all district judges;

5. Assign judges. [PL 1993, c. 675, Pt. B, §7 (RP).]

6. Records and reports. Prescribe, subject to the approval of the Chief Justice or the Chief Justice's delegate, the records to be kept and destroyed and the reports to be made by each district judge; [PL 2019, c. 475, §44 (AMD).]

7. Statistics. Collect such statistics and other information pertaining to the business of the District Court as are requested by the Chief Justice or the Chief Justice's delegate; [PL 2019, c. 475, §44 (AMD).]

8. Budget. Utilizing such assistance from the Administrative Office of the Courts as the Chief Judge may request, prepare and submit a proposed annual budget for the District Court to the Chief Justice or the Chief Justice's delegate; [PL 2019, c. 475, §45 (AMD).]

9. Report. Render to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court an annual report on the state of business in the District Court and on the conferences held pursuant to subsection 11 ;

10. Courtroom facilities. Make necessary arrangements for proper courtroom facilities for all branches of the District Court pursuant to section 162 ; establish headquarters with appropriate facilities for the Chief Judge; and establish quarters and facilities for all District Court judges; [PL 1993, c. 675, Pt. B, §8 (AMD).]

11. Conference of judges. Convene at least once annually at such place as the Chief Judge considers appropriate, a conference of District Court Judges to consider and take action upon or make recommendations with respect to current problems in the operation of the District Court. The expenses of District Court Judges attending this conference are an expense of the District Court; [PL 2019, c. 475, §46 (AMD).]

12. Violations bureau. Notwithstanding any other statute or law, establish the violations bureau. A. The violations bureau has jurisdiction over all traffic infractions committed in this State. Unless otherwise ordered by a court, trial of a traffic infraction must be in the division in which the alleged infraction was committed. [PL 1991, c. 549, §3 (RPR); PL 1991, c. 549, §17 (AFF).] B. The Chief Judge by order, which may from time to time be amended, shall designate the amount of fines imposed for traffic infractions. [PL 1991, c. 549, §3 (RPR); PL 1991, c. 549, §17 (AFF).] C. The Maine Rules of Civil Procedure applies in all traffic infraction proceedings. [PL 1991, c. 549, §3 (RPR); PL 1991, c. 549, §17 (AFF).] D. The clerk of each division has the authority to accept pleadings and fines on behalf of the violations bureau; [PL 1991, c. 549, §3 (RPR); PL 1991, c. 549, §17 (AFF).] E. [PL 1991, c. 549, §3 (RP); PL 1991, c. 549, §17 (AFF).] [PL 1991, c. 549, §3 (RPR); PL 1991, c. 549, §17 (AFF).]

13. Additional duties. Perform such additional duties as may be assigned by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court; [PL 1993, c. 680, Pt. A, §2 (AMD).]

14. Powers reserved to the Supreme Judicial Court. [PL 1993, c. 680, Pt. A, §3 (RP).]

15. Fisheries and wildlife bureau. Establish in each division a fisheries and wildlife bureau. The Chief Judge shall appoint a clerk of the District Court in each division as violations clerk for the fisheries and wildlife bureau in that division. The violations clerk shall accept written appearances, waivers of trial, pleas of guilty and payments of fines and costs in fisheries and wildlife offense cases, subject to the limitations prescribed in this subsection. The violations clerk serves under the direction and control of the judge of the court for which the violations clerk is appointed. A. A fisheries and wildlife offense means any violation of any provision of Title 12, Part 13 ; any provision of law enumerated in Title 12, section 10353 ; or any rule adopted by the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife pursuant to these provisions. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. B, §1 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. The Chief Judge shall by order, which may from time to time be amended, suspended or repealed, designate the fisheries and wildlife offenses within the authority of the violations clerk, except that such offenses may not include any offense for which a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment is provided by law. The court shall establish schedules, within the limits prescribed by law, of the amount of fines to be imposed for such offenses. The order of the court establishing the schedules must be prominently posted in the place where the fines are paid. Fines and costs must be paid to, receipted by and accounted for by the violations clerk in accordance with these provisions. [PL 1993, c. 680, Pt. A, §4 (AMD).] C. Any person charged with any fisheries and wildlife offense within the authority of the violations clerk may file an appearance in person or by mail before the violations clerk and enter a plea admitting the infraction charged and waiver of trial and pay the fine established for the infraction charged and costs. Any person entering a plea admitting the infraction charged must be informed of that person's rights, including the right to stand trial, that that person's signature to a plea admitting the infraction charged will have the same effect as a judgment of the court and that the record of adjudication will be sent to the Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. [PL 1993, c. 680, Pt. A, §4 (AMD).] D. Any person who has been found guilty of or who has signed a plea of guilty to, or who has been found to have committed or who has signed a plea admitting or admitting with an explanation, one or more previous fisheries and wildlife offenses subject to this subsection within a 12-month period may not appear before the violations clerk unless the court, by order, permits that appearance. Each waiver of hearing filed under this subsection must recite on the oath or affirmation of the offender whether or not the offender has been previously found guilty of, or to have committed, or has previously signed a plea of guilty to, admitting or admitting with an explanation to, one or more fisheries and wildlife offenses within a 12-month period. Any person swearing falsely to such a statement, upon conviction, is subject to a fine of not more than $50. [PL 1995, c. 462, Pt. A, §4 (AMD).] E. The Chief Judge, following notification to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court or the Chief Justice's delegate, may authorize forms and procedures the Chief Judge considers appropriate to carry out this subsection; [PL 1993, c. 680, Pt. A, §4 (AMD).] [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. B, §1 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).]

16. Development and implementation of administrative concepts. Carry on a continuous survey and study of the organization, operation, condition of business, practice and procedure of the District Court and make recommendations to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court concerning the number of judges and other personnel required for the efficient administration of justice and examine, with the advice of the judges of the District Court, the status of dockets of the various District Courts to determine whether the business of the court is being carried out in an efficient manner. From such an examination, the Chief Judge shall annually make recommendations to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court for guidelines and policies for the scheduling and trial of matters before the District Court. In providing recommendations, the Chief Judge shall give due and appropriate regard to the recommendations of the judges and other personnel of the District Court and shall provide a mechanism whereby their individual recommendations and comments may be brought to the attention of the Chief Justice. The Chief Judge, in advising as to the appropriateness of the methods or the systems for scheduling trials and the management of matters before the District Court, shall take into consideration systems and methods operational in the Superior Court. The final decision as to the management of personnel and the implementation of guidelines, policies and procedures for the scheduling of trials and management of matters before the District Court must be made by the Chief Justice only after consultation with the Chief Judge; [PL 1993, c. 680, Pt. A, §5 (AMD).]

17. Marine resources bureau. Establish in each division a marine resources bureau. The Chief Judge shall appoint a clerk of the District Court in each division as violations clerk for the marine resources bureau in that division. The violations clerk shall accept written appearances, waivers of trial, pleas of guilty and payments of fines and costs in marine resources offense cases, subject to the limitations prescribed in this subsection. The violations clerk serves under the direction and control of the judge of the court for which the violations clerk is appointed. A. A marine resources offense means any violation of any provision of Title 12, chapters 601 to 627 and chapters 935 , 937 and 939 , or any rules adopted by the Commissioner of Marine Resources pursuant to those chapters. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. B, §2 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. The Chief Judge shall by order, which may from time to time be amended, suspended or repealed, designate the marine resources offenses within the authority of the violations clerk, except that the offenses may not include any offense for which a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment is provided by law. The court shall establish schedules, within the limits prescribed by law, of the amount of fines to be imposed for the offenses. The order of the court establishing the schedules must be prominently posted in the place where the fines are paid. Fines and costs must be paid to, receipted by and accounted for by the violations clerk in accordance with these provisions. [PL 1993, c. 680, Pt. A, §6 (AMD).] C. Any person charged with any marine resources offense within the authority of the violations clerk may file an appearance in person or by mail before the violations clerk. Any person may enter a plea admitting the violation charged and waiver of trial and pay the fine, and costs, established for the violation charged. Any person entering a plea admitting the infraction charged must be informed of that person's rights, including the right to stand trial, that that person's signature to a plea admitting the violation charged will have the same effect as a judgment of the court and that the record of adjudication will be sent to the Commissioner of Marine Resources. [PL 1993, c. 680, Pt. A, §6 (AMD).] D. Any person who has been found guilty of or who has signed a plea of guilty to, or who has been found to have committed or who has signed a plea admitting or admitting with an explanation, one or more previous marine resources offenses subject to this subsection within a 12-month period may not appear before the violations clerk unless the court, by order, permits that appearance. Each waiver of hearing filed under this subsection must recite on the oath or affirmation of the offender whether or not the offender has been previously found guilty of or to have committed or has previously signed a plea of guilty to, admitting or admitting with an explanation to, one or more marine resources offenses within a 12-month period. Any person swearing falsely to such a statement is, upon conviction, subject to a fine of not more than $50. [PL 1993, c. 680, Pt. A, §6 (AMD).] E. The Chief Judge, following notification to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court or the Chief Justice's delegate, may authorize such forms and procedures as the Chief Judge considers appropriate to carry out this subsection; [PL 2021, c. 723, §3 (AMD).] [PL 2021, c. 723, §3 (AMD).]

18. Forest service bureau. Establish in each division a forest service bureau. The Chief Judge shall appoint the clerk of the District Court in each division as violations clerk for the forest service bureau. The violations clerk shall accept written appearances, waivers of trial, pleas of guilty and payments of fines and costs in forest service offense cases, subject to the limitations prescribed in this subsection. The violations clerk serves under the direction and control of the judge of the court for which that clerk is appointed. A. For purposes of this subsection, a forest service offense means any violation of Title 12, chapters 801 , 805 , 807 , 809 , 935 , 937 and 939 and section 10203, subsection 6 and sections 10651 , 10653 and 11221 or any rules adopted by the Director of the Maine Forest Service pursuant to those chapters. [PL 2003, c. 414, Pt. B, §3 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 614, §9 (AFF).] B. The Chief Judge shall by order, which may from time to time be amended, suspended or repealed, designate the forest service offenses within the authority of the violations clerk, except that the offenses may not include any offense for which a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment is provided by law. The court shall establish schedules, within the limits prescribed by law, of the amount of fines to be imposed for the offenses. The order of the court establishing the schedules must be prominently posted in the place where the fines are paid. Fines and costs must be paid to, receipted by and accounted for by the violations clerk in accordance with these provisions. [PL 1991, c. 635 (NEW).] C. A person charged with a forest service offense within the authority of the violations clerk may file an appearance in person or by mail before the violations clerk. A person may enter a plea admitting the violation charged and a waiver of trial and pay the fine and costs established for the violation charged. A person entering a plea admitting the violation charged must be informed of the person's rights, including the right to stand trial, that the person's signature to a plea admitting the violation charged has the same effect as a judgment of the court and that the record of adjudication will be sent to the Director of the Maine Forest Service. [PL 1991, c. 635 (NEW).] D. A person who, within a 12-month period, has been found guilty of, has signed a plea of guilty to, has been found to have committed or has signed a plea admitting, or admitting with an explanation, one or more previous forest service offenses subject to this subsection may not appear before the violations clerk unless the court, by order, permits that appearance. Each waiver of hearing filed under this subsection must recite on the oath or affirmation of the offender whether the offender was previously found guilty of or committed or previously signed a plea of guilty to or signed a plea admitting, or admitting with an explanation, one or more forest service offenses within a 12-month period. A person swearing falsely to such a statement is subject, upon conviction, to a fine of not more than $50. [PL 1991, c. 635 (NEW).] E. The Chief Judge, following notification to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court or the Chief Justice's delegate, may authorize forms and procedures as the Chief Judge considers appropriate to carry out this subsection; and [PL 2021, c. 723, §4 (AMD).] [PL 2021, c. 723, §4 (AMD).]

19. Annual training; domestic violence and child abuse issues. Establish annual training and education designed to inform District Court Judges on domestic violence and child abuse, neglect and maltreatment issues. [PL 2021, c. 723, §5 (NEW).]

Powers not enumerated in this section but necessary or desirable for the proper administration of the courts may, from time to time, be promulgated and assigned, by rule of the Supreme Judicial Court. [PL 1993, c. 680, Pt. A, §7 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 853 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 17 / Section 853
4 §853. Proceedings on default or hearing
Status: in_force

If such attorney fails to file that attorney's denial, the facts set forth in the information must be taken as confessed. If the justice finds that the facts so confessed are sufficient to disqualify the respondent from holding the office of attorney and counselor at law, or if, in case of denial, the justice upon hearing finds that any of the charges specified are true and that the acts proved are sufficient to disqualify the respondent, the justice shall give judgment accordingly, and shall enter a decree that the respondent be removed from the office of attorney and counselor at law in all the courts of the State and that the respondent's name be struck from the roll of attorneys. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §27 (COR).]

If the justice upon the facts so confessed, or, in the case of denial, upon hearing, finds that any of the charges specified are true but that the acts proved are not sufficient to disqualify the respondent permanently from holding the office of attorney and counselor at law, the justice shall give judgment accordingly and may suspend such respondent from the practice of law for such period as the justice may consider appropriate, or impose such other disciplinary measures as the justice considers appropriate. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §27 (COR).]
4 M.R.S. § 566 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 13 / Section 566
4 §566. Disposal of money collected by action on clerk's bond
Status: in_force

The money recovered in such action shall be applied under direction of the court, to complete the deficient records. If more than sufficient, the balance inures to the State. If not sufficient, the balance may be recovered by the Treasurer of State in an action founded on the bond and facts.
4 M.R.S. § 860 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 17 / Section 860
4 §860. Management of causes by parties or counsel
Status: in_force

Parties may plead and manage their own causes in court or do so by the aid of such counsel as they see fit to employ. No person whose name has been struck from the roll of attorneys for misconduct shall plead or manage causes in court under a power of attorney for any other party or be eligible for appointment as a notary public. [PL 1981, c. 456, Pt. A, §6 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 307 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 7 / Section 307
4 §307. Conflict of interest; transfer of case
Status: in_force

When a judge or register of probate is interested in that judge's or register of probate's own right, trust, or in any other manner, or is within the degree of kindred, by which in law that judge or register of probate may, by possibility, be heir to any part of the estate of the person deceased, or is named as executor, trustee or guardian of minor children in the will of any deceased resident of the county, such estate must be settled in the probate court of any adjoining county, which has as full jurisdiction thereof as if the deceased had died in that adjoining county. If the judge's or register of probate's interest arises after jurisdiction of such estate has been regularly assumed or existed at the time of the judge's or register of probate's appointment to office, and in all cases where an executor, administrator, guardian or trustee, whose trust is not fully executed, becomes judge or register of probate for the county in which that judge's or register of probate's letters were granted, further proceedings in that county must be transferred to the probate court in any adjoining county and there remain until completed, as if such court had had original jurisdiction thereof, unless said disability is removed before that time. Whenever in any case under this section the disability of the judge or register is removed before the proceedings have been fully completed, the proceedings must then be transferred to the probate court in the county of original jurisdiction or to the probate court that otherwise would have had jurisdiction. In all such cases the register in such adjoining county shall transmit copies of all records relating to such estate to the probate office of the county where such estate belongs, to be there recorded. If there are fewer than 4 counties adjoining the county of a probate court that is required to transfer proceedings to an adjoining county under this section, the proceedings must be transferred to a probate court in one of the 4 counties nearest to the transferring probate court, as measured by the shortest distance along paved roads between the building in which the registry of probate is located in the transferring county and the building in which the registry of probate is located in the other county. [PL 2023, c. 4, §1 (AMD).]

This section may not be construed to require removal to another county by reason of the judge or register of probate having been named as executor, trustee or guardian of minor children in a will, as long as the judge or register of probate does not receive a benefit from the will and the record of the court discloses the filing of the judge's or register of probate's declination to act as such executor, trustee or guardian, if no objection is raised by any interested party at the hearing on the petition for probate of the will. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §11 (COR).]

A judge is considered to be interested in an estate or other probate proceeding, including adoptions, if the judge or a person with whom the judge practices law represents a party in the proceeding. When such representation begins, the judge shall transfer the matter as provided in this section, after which transfer the judge or the person with whom the judge practices law may continue such representation, except that, after a formal probate proceeding has been initiated before a judge, that judge is forever barred from assuming representation of a party in that same proceeding without regard to whether or not the proceeding has been transferred. A petition requesting a transfer and the petition related to the matter being transferred filed simultaneously are not considered formal probate proceedings for the purposes of this paragraph. [PL 1991, c. 697, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 17-B — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 17-B
4 §17-B. Funds from the Federal Government and private sources
Status: in_force

The State Court Administrator may accept, use, expend and dispose of, on behalf of the State, funds, equipment, supplies, materials and property from any agency of the United States or from any private foundation or other private source. [PL 1997, c. 11, §1 (NEW).] Revisor's Note: §17-B. Subleasing (As enacted by PL 1997, c. 362, §1 is REALLOCATED TO TITLE 4, SECTION 17-C)
4 M.R.S. § 158 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 5 / Section 158
4 §158. Ex officio, notary public; may administer oaths
Status: in_force

Judges and clerks of the District Court are, ex officio, notaries public, and all their official acts, attested by them in either capacity, except those pertaining to the exclusive jurisdiction of judges and clerks of District Courts, are of equal effect. Judges and clerks of the District Court may administer all oaths required by law, unless another officer is specifically required to do it. [PL 1981, c. 456, §3 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1606 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1606
4 §1606. Issuance of securities
Status: in_force

1. Resolution for issuance of securities. The authority may provide by resolution, at one time or from time to time, for the issuance and sale by it of securities, in its own name, for the purpose of paying the cost of any project, projects or part of any project, or the refinancing of existing indebtedness, approved by the authority. Securities of the authority may not be authorized and issued except pursuant to a resolution adopted by the vote of not less than a majority of the members of the authority. The resolution must describe the general purpose or purposes for which the securities are to be issued and state the maximum principal amount of the securities proposed to be issued. Securities may not be issued by the authority without a 2/3 vote of approval in each House of the Legislature. [PL 1997, c. 523, §14 (AMD).]

1-A. Resolution for issuance of securities. [PL 1987, c. 872, §4 (RP).]

2. Limitation on securities issued. The authority may not issue securities in excess of $189,000,000 outstanding at any one time, of which no less than $136,000,000 must be specifically allocated to projects relating to the Judicial Branch, except for the issuance of revenue refunding securities authorized by section 1610 and securities issued under section 1610‑A . The amount of securities that may be outstanding in the name of the authority may be increased by the Legislature upon a showing by the authority that its available revenues are sufficient to support additional issuance of securities and that the issuance of securities will not materially impair the credit standing of the authority, the investment status of securities issued by the authority or the ability of the authority to fulfill its commitments to holders of securities. Nothing in this chapter may be construed to authorize the authority to issue securities to fund the construction, reconstruction, purchase or acquisition of facilities without a majority vote of approval in each House of the Legislature. [PL 2009, c. 213, Pt. WWWW, §1 (AMD).]

3. After issuance. After issuance, all securities of the authority shall be conclusively presumed to be fully and duly authorized and issued under the laws of the State and any person or governmental unit shall be estopped from questioning their authorization, sale, issuance, execution or delivery by the authority. [PL 1987, c. 438, §1 (NEW).]

4. Form of securities. The securities of each issue must be dated, mature at such time or times not exceeding 40 years from their date or dates and bear interest at such rate or rates, including variable, floating or adjustable rates, as may be authorized by the authority. These securities may be made redeemable, callable or subject to purchase or tender before maturity, at such price or prices and under such terms and conditions as may be provided for by the authority prior to the issuance of the securities. The authority shall determine the form of the securities, including any interest coupons to be attached to the securities, if any, and the manner of execution of the securities and shall fix the denomination or denominations of the securities and the place or places of payment of principal and interest, which may be at any bank, national banking association or trust company within or without the State. Securities must be executed in the name of the authority by the manual or facsimile signature of such official or officials as may be authorized in the resolution to execute those securities. Coupons, if any, attached to securities must be executed with the facsimile signature of the official or officials designated in the resolution. If any official whose signature or a facsimile of whose signature appears on any securities or coupons ceases to be an official before the delivery of the securities, the signature or the facsimile is valid and sufficient for all purposes, with the same effect as if the official had remained in office until the delivery. Notwithstanding any of the other provisions of this Act or any recitals in any securities issued under this Act, all such securities are deemed to be negotiable instruments issued under the laws of the State. The securities may be issued in coupon or registered form, or both, as the authority may determine. Provisions may be made for the registration of any coupon securities as to principal alone and as to both principal and interest, and for the reconversion into coupon securities of any securities registered as to both principal and interest. The authority may sell the securities in such manner, either at public or private sale, and for such price as it may determine to be for the best interests of the authority. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §48 (COR).]

5. Award and select securities. The power to fix the date of sale of any securities, to receive bids or proposals, to award and sell any securities, to set the terms and provisions of any securities and to take all other action necessary to sell and deliver any securities may be delegated to any officer of the authority by a majority of the members of the authority. [PL 1987, c. 438, §1 (NEW).]

6. Proceeds of securities. The proceeds of the securities of each issue shall be used solely for the purpose or purposes for which the securities were authorized and shall be disbursed in such manner and under such restrictions as the authority may provide in the resolution authorizing the issuance of the securities or in the trust agreement securing the securities. If the proceeds of the securities, by error of estimates or otherwise, are less than the cost, additional securities may, in like manner, be issued to provide the amount of the deficiency and, unless otherwise provided in the authorizing resolution or in the trust agreement securing the securities, shall be deemed to be of the same issue and shall be entitled to payment from the same fund without preference or priority of the securities first issued for the same purpose. The resolution providing for the issuance of securities and any trust agreement securing the securities may contain such limitations upon the issuance of additional securities as the authority may consider proper. Any additional securities shall be issued under such restrictions and limitations as may be prescribed by the resolution or trust agreement. The authority may provide for the replacement of any securities which become mutilated, destroyed, stolen or lost. Securities may be issued under this Act without obtaining the consent of any department, division, commission, board, bureau or agency of the State and without any other proceedings or the happening of any other conditions or things other than those proceedings, conditions or things which are specifically required by this Act. [PL 1987, c. 438, §1 (NEW).]

7. Use of proceeds. The proceeds of the securities of each issue must be used for the payment of all or part of the cost of the project, projects or part of any project for which authorized and must be disbursed in such manner and under such restrictions as are provided in the resolution authorizing the issuance of the bonds or in the trust agreement securing the securities. Proceeds may be used to pay all costs incurred in issuing the securities, interest on the securities for such time as may be authorized by the authority, subject to the provisions of this Act and to establish reserve funds and sinking funds for the securities. [PL 1997, c. 523, §16 (AMD).]

8. Interim or temporary securities. Prior to the preparation of definitive securities, the authority may, under like restrictions, issue interim or temporary securities with or without coupons, exchangable for definitive securities when those securities are executed and are available for delivery. [PL 1987, c. 438, §1 (NEW).]

9. Securing of principal and interest. The principal of and interest on any securities issued by the authority, together with any related costs and expenses, must be secured by a pledge of the revenues and receipts derived by the authority from the project, projects or part of any project financed and from such other revenues of the authority as may be specially pledged by the authority and may be secured by a mortgage covering all or any part of the project, projects or part of any project, including any enlargements of and additions to the project, projects or part of any project made. The resolution under which the securities may be issued and any mortgage may contain any agreements and provisions respecting the maintenance of the project, projects or part of any project covered, the fixing and collection of rents, fees or other charges, the creation and maintenance of special funds from the revenues and any reserve funds and the rights and remedies available in the event of default, all as the authority considers advisable and not in conflict with the provisions of this Act. Each pledge, agreement and mortgage made for the benefit or security of any of the holders of securities continues in effect until the principal of and interest and any related costs and expenses on the securities for the benefit for which the securities were made have been fully paid. [PL 1997, c. 523, §16 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1552 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 32 / Section 1552
4 §1552. Children's guardians
Status: in_force

1. Guardian ad litem roster. The division shall assist the Chief Judge of the District Court in the establishment and maintenance of a roster of guardians ad litem pursuant to section 1553 . [PL 2013, c. 406, §1 (NEW).]

2. Administration of guardians ad litem under Title 19-A. For guardians ad litem appointed under Title 19‑A , the division shall assist the Chief Judge of the District Court in: A. Establishing standardized billing, itemization requirements and time reporting processes for all guardians ad litem; [PL 2013, c. 406, §1 (NEW).] B. Establishing guidelines for preparation of required reports; and [PL 2013, c. 406, §1 (NEW).] C. Collecting, maintaining and reporting data about orders of appointment, submission of required reports, caseloads and other information as directed by the Chief Judge of the District Court. [PL 2013, c. 406, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2013, c. 406, §1 (NEW).]

3. Staff. The State Court Administrator shall provide necessary professional and clerical or other staff and logistical support to the division within the limit of funds available. [PL 2013, c. 406, §1 (NEW).]

4. Public information. The division shall provide public information about the role of guardians ad litem, how to provide comments about a guardian ad litem and the complaint process established pursuant to section 1557 . [PL 2013, c. 406, §1 (NEW).]

5. Effective date. This section takes effect January 1, 2015. [PL 2013, c. 406, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 1306 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 27 / Section 1306
4 §1306. Back contribution for certain days off without pay
Status: in_force

1. Election. If the Maine Public Employees Retirement System determines at the time a member retires that the member's benefit would be increased as a result of the inclusion of compensation that would have been paid for fiscal year 2002-03 days off without pay as described in section 1201, subsection 3 , the retirement system shall advise the member of that result and shall allow the member to elect to have that compensation included in the calculation of the member's benefit and to make payments as set forth in subsection 2 . [PL 2007, c. 491, §48 (AMD).]

2. Payment. The amount that a member who makes the election permitted in subsection 1 must pay is the amount equal to the employee contribution that person would have made on wages that would have been paid to that person on the days off without pay during the 2002-03 fiscal year as described in section 1201, subsection 3 , plus interest at a rate, to be set by the board, not to exceed regular interest by 5 or more percentage points. Interest must be computed beginning at the end of the year when those contributions or pick-up contributions would have been made to the date of payment. If the member elects to make the payment, the Maine Public Employees Retirement System shall withhold the required amount from the member's first retirement benefit check. [PL 2009, c. 474, §10 (AMD).]

3. Benefit calculation. If the member fails to make the election within 31 days of the notification provided under subsection 1 , the Maine Public Employees Retirement System shall calculate the member's retirement benefit without inclusion of the days off without pay during the 2002-03 fiscal year. [PL 2007, c. 491, §48 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 114 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 3 / Section 114
4 §114. Authority of court
Status: in_force

The Superior Court may administer all necessary oaths, render judgment and issue execution, punish for contempt and compel attendance; and the provisions of law relative to the jurisdiction of the Supreme Judicial Court in each of said counties over parties, the arrest of persons, attachment of property, the time and mode of service of precepts, proceedings in court, the taxation of costs, the rendition of judgments, the issuing, service and return of executions and all other subjects apply to the Superior Court in all respects, except so far as they are modified by law, and the Superior Court is clothed with all the powers necessary for the performance of all its duties. [PL 1975, c. 408, §11 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 196 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 6 / Section 196
4 §196. Duties, county committee
Status: in_force

The County Law Library Committee shall establish local operating policies, such as, but not limited to, hours, circulation policies and photocopy privileges. Each county committee shall exercise supervision over the expenditures of private and nonstate funds, including endowments, and may use those funds to upgrade its county law library. Each county committee shall determine space requirements. [PL 2013, c. 533, §5 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 155 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 5 / Section 155
4 §155. Venue
Status: in_force

1. Juvenile proceeding or criminal prosecution. A juvenile proceeding or criminal prosecution, including traffic, shall be brought in the division in which the offense charged took place, but if the proceeding involves 2 or more offenses committed in different divisions, it may be brought in any one of them.

2. Forcible entry and detainer; trustee process; attachment. An action for forcible entry and detainer must be brought in the division in which the property involved is located. Except as otherwise provided in subsection 3‑A , an action to recover personal property pursuant to Title 14, section 7071 , or for replevin, may be brought either in the division where a plaintiff or defendant resides, where the underlying transaction involving the personal property was made or where any of the personal property is located, or to which the court orders the personal property to be brought or kept pursuant to Title 14, section 7071, subsection 5 . An action commenced by trustee process must be brought in accordance with Title 14, chapter 501 . An action involving attachment may be brought in the division where the plaintiff resides or where the defendant resides or where the property involved is located. [PL 2009, c. 245, §1 (AMD).]

3. Divorce, separation, annulment, support. An action or proceeding for divorce, separation, annulment of marriage or for support may be brought in the division where either the plaintiff or the defendant resides. [PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §5 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]

3-A. Consumer transactions. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an action brought against a consumer arising from a consumer credit transaction or a rental-purchase agreement must be filed in accordance with Title 9‑A, section 5‑113 , except that an action brought pursuant to Title 32, section 11013, subsection 3, paragraph N must be brought where provided for in that paragraph. [PL 2009, c. 245, §2 (NEW).]

4. Other civil actions. Any other civil action or proceeding shall be brought in the division where any plaintiff or defendant resides, but if all defendants are nonresidents of the State, it may be brought in any division of the plaintiff's choice.

5. Corporation. A corporation shall be deemed a resident of any district in which it maintains a place of business.

6. Brought in any division with consent. Notwithstanding subsections 1 to 5 , all parties, with the approval of any district judge, may consent to any action, proceeding or prosecution being brought and determined in any division.

7. Improper venue. If any action or proceeding, civil or criminal, is brought in the wrong division, the court, upon motion or on its own initiative, may transfer it to a proper division. Any objection to improper venue is waived unless asserted by motion to transfer the case made before the commencement of trial or, in the event of default in appearance or answer, before the entry of judgment.

8. Transfer of any case. The court may, upon motion or its own initiative, transfer any case to another division for the convenience of parties or witnesses or in the interest of justice.
4 M.R.S. § 1361 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 27 / Section 1361
4 §1361. Divorce
Status: in_force

If a retiree who is the recipient of a reduced regular retirement allowance under section 1357, subsection 2, paragraph B , C , D or E is granted a divorce either after retirement or before a retirement beneficiary is named, subsections 1 to 4 apply. [PL 1999, c. 744, §5 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 744, §17 (AFF).]

1. Election of benefit for different beneficiary. The recipient may elect to have the reduced retirement benefit paid under the same option to a different beneficiary except when the former spouse is named as retirement beneficiary at the time the divorce is granted, in which case the election may be made only under the following conditions: A. The spouse or former spouse who was originally named as retirement beneficiary must have been the sole beneficiary of the reduced retirement benefit under section 1357, subsection 2, paragraph B , C , D or E ; and [PL 1999, c. 744, §6 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 744, §17 (AFF).] B. The recipient and the spouse or former spouse who was originally named retirement beneficiary must agree to the change of beneficiary. Prior to this agreement, the executive director shall ensure that the spouse or former spouse who was originally named as retirement beneficiary has been counseled by an employee of the retirement system regarding the financial effect of giving up rights as a beneficiary and has signed a statement that the information has been received and understood. [PL 1997, c. 55, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2007, c. 249, §9 (AMD).]

2. Time and manner of election. The recipient may make the election at any time after the divorce is granted by: A. Sending a written request to the executive director; and [PL 1997, c. 55, §2 (NEW).] B. Submitting evidence of the divorce. [PL 1997, c. 55, §2 (NEW).] [PL 1997, c. 55, §2 (NEW).]

3. Amount of benefit. The amount of the benefit payable under the option elected is the actuarial equivalent, at the date of the beginning of payment of benefits under this section, of the amount of reduced retirement benefit the recipient has been receiving, plus the amount expected to be paid to the original spouse after the recipient's death. [PL 1997, c. 55, §2 (NEW).]

4. Effective date of coverage of new beneficiary. The effective date of the designation of the recipient's new beneficiary is the date the request is received. The recipient's retirement benefit must be adjusted on the first day of the month following the effective date of the new designation of beneficiary. [PL 1997, c. 55, §2 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 17-D — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 17-D
4 §17-D. Fees for training, security and other expenses
Status: in_force

The State Court Administrator may establish fees on lawyers, guardians ad litem, interpreters, mediators and other professionals who routinely participate in court proceedings to cover the costs of training, orientation, continuing education, background investigations, entry screening and security provided to these professionals. The State Court Administrator also may establish fees on 3rd parties to cover the costs of the use of court facilities for purposes not related to court functions by those 3rd parties. All fees collected under this section must be deposited in a nonlapsing Other Special Revenue Funds account to be used for these purposes only. This account may receive money from grants, gifts, bequests and donations. [PL 2015, c. 238, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 312 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 7 / Section 312
4 §312. Political activities of judges of probate
Status: in_force

As a candidate for the elective office of judge of probate or as an elected judge, a person seeking or holding the office of judge of probate may engage in any political activity that would be lawful for a candidate for any other elected county office or for an incumbent elected county official. Any such judge may hold any other elected office or offices not made incompatible by the Constitution of Maine. [PL 1993, c. 695, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 656 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 15 / Section 656
4 §656. Stenographic reports, transcripts taxed in bill of costs
Status: in_force

Any amount legally chargeable by Official Court Reporters for writing out their reports or for transcribers for creating transcripts from the electronically recorded records for use in civil actions and actually paid by either party whose duty it is to furnish the reports or records may be taxed in the bill of costs and allowed against the losing party, as is allowed for copies, if furnished by the clerk. [PL 2007, c. 539, Pt. JJ, §5 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1057 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 23 / Section 1057
4 §1057. Government Operations Surcharge Fund
Status: in_force

1. Fund established. There is established a fund to be known as the Government Operations Surcharge Fund. This fund must be maintained by the Treasurer of State for the purposes of reimbursing counties for costs associated with operations of the jail system and, until January 1, 2001, for funding infrastructure improvements to the Maine Criminal Justice Information System described in Title 16, section 631 and for funding the operation of the Judicial Department's computer system. [PL 1995, c. 668, §1 (AMD).]

2. Surcharge imposed. [PL 1995, c. 668, §1 (AMD); MRSA T. 4 §1057, sub-§2 (RP).]

2-A. Surcharge imposed. Surcharges of 14% and 5% must be added to every fine, forfeiture or penalty imposed by any court in this State, which, for the purposes of collection and collection procedures, are considered a part of the fine, forfeiture or penalty. The 14% surcharge collected as a result of this subsection must be deposited monthly in the Government Operations Surcharge Fund and the 5% surcharge collected as a result of this subsection must be deposited directly into the General Fund. Three fourteenths of the surcharge collected and deposited in the Government Operations Surcharge Fund must be paid to the Maine Criminal Justice Academy to supplement current funds for training and recertification of part-time and full-time law enforcement officers. One fourteenth of the surcharge collected and deposited in the Government Operations Surcharge Fund must be paid to the State Police to supplement current funds for computer crimes investigations. [PL 2005, c. 676, §1 (AMD).]

3. Reimbursement to counties. [PL 2007, c. 653, Pt. A, §1 (AMD); MRSA T. 4 §1057, sub-§3 (RP).]

3-A. Reimbursement to counties. Monthly, the Treasurer of State shall transfer funds from the Government Operations Surcharge Fund to the County Jail Operations Fund program for the purpose of supporting the operation of the jails in an amount equal to 2% of the total fines, forfeitures and penalties, including the surcharge imposed pursuant to subsection 2‑A , received by the Treasurer of State for deposit in the Government Operations Surcharge Fund. The balance remaining in the Government Operations Surcharge Fund at the end of each month must accrue to the General Fund. Funds collected and deposited each month to the Government Operations Surcharge Fund must be transferred on the last day of the month in which the collections are made to the County Jail Operations Fund program. At the close of each month, the State Controller shall calculate the amount to be transferred to the County Jail Operations Fund program based on the collections made during the month. The State Controller shall transfer by journal entry the amount due to the County Jail Operations Fund program. [PL 2015, c. 335, §2 (AMD).]

4. Payment for infrastructure improvements to the Maine Criminal Justice Information System and for operation of the Judicial Department's computer system. [PL 1995, c. 668, §1 (NEW); MRSA T. 4 §1057, sub-§4 (RP).]
4 M.R.S. § 17-C — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 17-C
4 §17-C. Subleasing (REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 4, SECTION 17-B)
Status: in_force

(REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 4, SECTION 17-B)

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Judicial Department may sublease real property that it holds in the Town of York as tenant to any other government agency for a period of 5 years or less. [RR 1997, c. 1, §1 (RAL).]
4 M.R.S. § 564 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 13 / Section 564
4 §564. Record of criminal or traffic infraction cases; certain convictions or adjudications not criminal records
Status: in_force

In indictments, clerks shall make records of the process, proceedings, judgment and sentence as the Supreme Judicial Court may prescribe by rule. In criminal prosecutions or civil violation proceedings brought up by appeal from inferior courts, clerks shall make records of the process, proceedings, judgment and sentence as the Supreme Judicial Court may prescribe by rule. [PL 1977, c. 114, §13 (RPR).]

Convictions for violation of the fish and wildlife laws or motor vehicle traffic laws or municipal ordinances where the fine imposed does not exceed $100 or adjudications for violations constituting traffic infractions shall not be deemed to constitute a criminal record against any person so convicted or adjudicated. This section shall not exempt any court from filing court abstracts as now required by law. [PL 1977, c. 114, §13 (RPR).]
4 M.R.S. § 176 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 5 / Section 176
4 §176. Fees for entering an appeal
Status: in_force

No Judge of a District Court division shall demand or receive any fees for entering an appeal or admitting to bail to prosecute it, in a criminal or traffic infraction case. The legal fees therefor may be taxed in the bill of costs, and certified and paid like other fees. [PL 1975, c. 430, §18 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 165 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 5 / Section 165
4 §165. District Court; jurisdiction over crimes and juvenile offenses
Status: in_force

1. Crimes; under one year imprisonment. The District Court has jurisdiction and, except as provided in Title 29‑A, section 2602 , concurrent jurisdiction with the Superior Court of all crimes, including violation of any statute or a bylaw of a town, village corporation or local health officer and breach of the peace, for which the maximum term of imprisonment to which the defendant may be sentenced upon conviction of that crime is less than one year. [PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §6 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]

2. Juvenile Court. The District Court has jurisdiction over juvenile offenses pursuant to Title 15, Part 6 . [PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §6 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]

3. Crimes; one year or more imprisonment. The District Court has, concurrent with the Superior Court, original jurisdiction to receive pleas of guilty in criminal cases, other than murder, in which: A. The maximum term of imprisonment to which the defendant may be sentenced upon conviction of that crime is one year or more; [PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §6 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).] B. The defendant has in writing waived the defendant's right to indictment by grand jury and the defendant's right to a jury trial; and [PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §6 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).] C. The defendant has indicated the defendant's intention to enter a plea of guilty to the charges pending against the defendant. [PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §6 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).] When exercising such jurisdiction, the District Court possesses all of the powers of the Superior Court. The District Court shall exercise that jurisdiction in the manner that the Supreme Judicial Court by rule provides. Any person sentenced under this subsection is entitled to the rights provided by Title 15, chapter 306‑A . [PL 2005, c. 326, §1 (AMD); PL 2005, c. 326, §5 (AFF).]

4. Issue process. The District Court has jurisdiction to issue process with respect to any violation over which the Passamaquoddy Tribe or the Penobscot Nation exercises exclusive jurisdiction under Title 30, section 6209‑A or 6209‑B . [PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §6 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]

5. Power to sentence. The District Court may impose any authorized sentencing alternative. [PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §6 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]
4 M.R.S. § 18-A — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 18-A
4 §18-A. Maine Civil Legal Services Fund established
Status: in_force

1. Creation of fund. The Maine Civil Legal Services Fund, referred to in this section as the "fund," is established as a nonlapsing fund to support civil legal services to persons who otherwise are not able to pay for these services. A. Money in the fund not needed to meet current obligations must be deposited with the Treasurer of State to the credit of the fund and may be invested as provided by law. Interest on these investments must be credited to the fund. [PL 1991, c. 503 (NEW).] B. Except as provided in paragraph C , money in the fund must be disbursed to legal services providers to support the provision of free civil legal services to low-income or needy people or the needy elderly in this State. Money disbursed from the fund may not be used by a recipient to support lobbying as defined in Title 3, section 312‑A, subsection 9 unless the recipient is responding to a request by a Legislator or a member of the Executive Department. Only the following legal services providers may receive disbursement to provide free civil legal services: (1) Nonprofit organizations whose missions include the provision of statewide free civil legal services and who have at least 5 years of experience providing free civil legal services; (2) Legal aid clinics of accredited law schools operating exclusively in Maine; and (3) Programs whose primary mission is to coordinate pro bono legal services on a statewide basis for low-income people in this State. [PL 2019, c. 509, §1 (AMD).] C. In the first year the Judicial Department may draw from the fund any programming, printing and distribution costs that are necessary to implement surcharges on fines, penalties or forfeitures as provided in subsection 3‑A . [PL 1997, c. 173, §2 (NEW).] [PL 2019, c. 509, §1 (AMD).]

2. Administration. The Supreme Judicial Court, or a person or organization designated by the court, is the administrator and shall administer the fund. The administrator shall disburse funds according to determinations made by the commission established in subsection 6 . The administrator shall report at least annually to the Legislature on the previous year's income and expenditures. [PL 1997, c. 173, §3 (AMD).]

3. Contribution. [PL 1997, c. 173, §4 (RP).]

3-A. Funding. Funding for the fund may be provided by the following methods. A. For all fees collected by the Judicial Department after October 1, 2019, 9% must be deposited in the fund. This paragraph does not apply to fees dedicated under section 17‑A or section 18‑B, subsection 8 or to surcharges imposed pursuant to paragraph C . [PL 2019, c. 509, §2 (AMD).] B. A surcharge of $10 must be imposed by a court on each civil fine, penalty or forfeiture imposed by the court and deposited in the fund. [PL 2005, c. 361, §3 (AMD).] C. A surcharge of $127 must be imposed by a court on the fee for commencement of each debt collection action or money judgment disclosure action when the action is brought by a debt buyer, as defined by Title 32, section 11002, subsection 5‑A , or a debt collector, as defined by Title 32, section 11002, subsection 6 . The surcharge must be deposited in the fund and is not a recoverable cost under Title 14, section 1502‑B . [PL 2021, c. 329, §1 (AMD).] [PL 2021, c. 329, §1 (AMD).]

4. Other funds. The fund may receive money from any source, including grants, gifts, bequests and donations. Funds appropriated and money received for the benefit of the fund must be deposited to the fund. [PL 1991, c. 503 (NEW).]

5. Allocation. [PL 1997, c. 173, §6 (RP).]

6. Distribution of funds. The Supreme Judicial Court shall appoint the Civil Legal Services Fund Commission, consisting of 3 persons knowledgeable about the problems of ensuring access to justice in this State, to determine how to distribute the funds in accordance with subsection 1 in a manner that will most efficiently and effectively maintain and enhance access to justice in this State. The commission shall review the allocation at least every 4 years or on the request of any member of the commission and shall make adjustments to the allocation when appropriate. Funds must be distributed at least quarterly with the first distribution occurring no later than January 2, 1998. The commission shall compile information on the types of cases handled by recipient organizations and shall report this information and its allocation decisions to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over judiciary matters no later than February 1, 1999. [PL 1997, c. 173, §7 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 8-B — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 8-B
4 §8-B. Rules governing nondisclosure of certain identifying information
Status: in_force

1. Nondisclosure of certain identifying information. The Supreme Judicial Court may prescribe, repeal, add to, amend or modify rules or orders providing for a procedure in all courts through which a party is given the right to request that certain identifying information not be disclosed. [PL 2007, c. 351, §1 (NEW).]

2. No contact order; allegation or pleading. Rules and orders developed pursuant to subsection 1 may allow: A. A party or participant to notify the court in any case of the existence of any court orders in effect at the time of the proceeding that prohibit contact between the parties and participants; and [PL 2007, c. 351, §1 (NEW).] B. A party or participant to allege in an affidavit or a pleading under oath that the health, safety or liberty of the person would be jeopardized by disclosure of information pertaining to the person's current or intended address or location. [PL 2007, c. 351, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2007, c. 351, §1 (NEW).]

3. Evidence; records. Rules and orders under this section may address the sealing, disclosure and redaction of evidence and records, including circumstances in which the information to be treated as confidential is a material fact necessary to the proceeding. [PL 2007, c. 351, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 1351 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 27 / Section 1351
4 §1351. Eligibility for retirement
Status: in_force

Upon written application to the board setting forth the date upon which the member chooses to retire, any member may retire upon meeting one of the following. [PL 1991, c. 528, Pt. EEE, §2 (AMD); PL 1991, c. 528, Pt. EEE, §18 (AFF); PL 1991, c. 528, Pt. RRR (AFF); PL 1991, c. 591, Pt. EEE, §2 (AMD); PL 1991, c. 591, Pt. EEE, §18 (AFF).]

1. Age 60; at least 10 years of creditable service on July 1, 1993. Any member who on July 1, 1993 had at least 10 years of creditable service may retire on or after the member's 60th birthday. [PL 1999, c. 756, §5 (AMD).]

1-A. Age 62; less than 10 years of creditable service on July 1, 1993. Any member who on July 1, 1993 had less than 10 years of creditable service may retire on or after the member's 62nd birthday if: A. The member has at least 10 years of creditable service; or [PL 1999, c. 756, §6 (NEW).] B. The member has at least 5 years of creditable service and: (1) Was in service on October 1, 1999; (2) Had left service prior to October 1, 1999 with or without withdrawing contributions and on or after October 1, 1999 returned to service; or (3) Was first in service on or after October 1, 1999. [PL 1999, c. 756, §6 (NEW).] [PL 1999, c. 756, §6 (NEW).]

1-B. At least 5 years creditable service on July 1, 2011. Eligibility for retirement for a member who on July 1, 2011 had at least 5 years of creditable service is governed by subsection 1 if the member had 10 years of creditable service on July 1, 1993 or by subsection 1‑A , if the member had less than 10 years of creditable service on July 1, 1993. [PL 2011, c. 380, Pt. T, §5 (NEW).]

1-C. Less than 5 years creditable service on July 1, 2011. A member who on July 1, 2011 had less than 5 years of creditable service may retire at 65 years of age or thereafter, whether or not the member is in service at retirement, as long as the member has at the time of retirement at least 5 years of creditable service. [PL 2011, c. 380, Pt. T, §6 (NEW).]

2. Age 70. Any member in service may retire on or after the member's 70th birthday, provided that the member has been in service, as a judge, for at least one year immediately before retirement. [PL 1991, c. 528, Pt. EEE, §2 (AMD); PL 1991, c. 528, Pt. EEE, §18 (AFF); PL 1991, c. 528, Pt. RRR (AFF); PL 1991, c. 591, Pt. EEE, §2 (AMD); PL 1991, c. 591, Pt. EEE, §18 (AFF).]

2-A. Five-year minimum creditable service requirement for eligibility to receive a service retirement benefit at applicable age; applicability. The minimum requirement of 5 years of creditable service for eligibility to receive service retirement benefits under subsection 1‑A , 1‑B or 1‑C applies only to: A. A member who was in service on October 1, 1999; [PL 1999, c. 756, §7 (NEW).] B. Upon return to service, a member who had left service prior to October 1, 1999 with or without withdrawing that member's contributions and on or after October 1, 1999 returned to service; or [PL 1999, c. 756, §7 (NEW).] C. A member who was first in service on or after October 1, 1999. [PL 1999, c. 756, §7 (NEW).] For those members to whom the 5-year minimum creditable service requirement does not apply, the 10-year minimum creditable service requirement for eligibility to receive service retirement benefits remains in effect on and after October 1, 1999. [PL 2011, c. 380, Pt. T, §7 (AMD).]

3. Early retirement; at least 10 years of creditable service on July 1, 1993. Any member, whether or not in service at retirement, who on July 1, 1993 had at least 10 years of creditable service and who has completed at least 25 years of creditable service may retire any time before the member's 60th birthday. The retirement allowance is determined in accordance with section 1352 , except that it is reduced by multiplying the retirement allowance by a fraction that represents the ratio of the amount of a life annuity due at age 60 to the amount of a life annuity due at the age of retirement. The tables of annuities in effect at the date of retirement are used for this purpose. For the purpose of calculating creditable service under this subsection only, creditable service includes time during which a member participated in the voluntary cost savings plan or the voluntary employee incentive program, authorized by Public Law 1989, chapter 702, section F‑6 and Public Law 1991, chapter 591, Part BB and chapter 780, Part VV or creditable service available to a member that the member was eligible to purchase on June 30, 1993 and that the member does purchase in accordance with rules adopted by the board. [PL 1999, c. 756, §8 (AMD).]

3-A. Early retirement; less than 10 years creditable service on July 1, 1993. Any member, whether or not in service at retirement, who on July 1, 1993 had less than 10 years of creditable service and who has completed at least 25 years of creditable service may retire any time before the member's 62nd birthday. The retirement allowance is determined in accordance with section 1352 , except that the benefit is reduced by 6% for each year that the member's age precedes age 62. [PL 1999, c. 756, §9 (AMD).]

3-B. Early retirement; less than 5 years creditable service on July 1, 2011. Any member, whether or not in service at retirement, who on July 1, 2011 had less than 5 years of creditable service and who had completed at least 25 years of creditable service may retire any time before the member's 65th birthday. The retirement allowance is determined in accordance with section 1352 , except that the benefit is reduced by 6% for each year that the member's age precedes age 65. [PL 2011, c. 380, Pt. T, §8 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 1610-C — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1610-C
4 §1610-C. Additional securities
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any limitation on the amount of securities that may be issued pursuant to section 1606, subsection 2 , the authority may issue additional securities in an amount not to exceed $7,485,000 outstanding at any one time for capital repairs and improvements at various state facilities. [PL 2003, c. 20, Pt. PP, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 775 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 15 / Section 775
4 §775. Waiver prohibited
Status: in_force

The provisions of this subchapter may not be waived or otherwise modified. Any waiver or modification is contrary to public policy and is void and unenforceable. [PL 2013, c. 298, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 857 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 17 / Section 857
4 §857. Interpretation of provisions
Status: in_force

Sections 851 to 856 do not annul or restrict any authority hitherto possessed or exercised by the courts over attorneys.
4 M.R.S. § 164-A — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 5 / Section 164-A
4 §164-A. Acceptance of fine and guilty plea
Status: in_force

The clerk of each division may accept a guilty plea to a criminal traffic offense upon payment of a fine and surcharge in accordance with a schedule of offenses and fines established by the Chief Judge. A person tendering payment of a fine without filing a signed waiver is deemed to have read and waived that person's rights, to understand that tendering payment is deemed a waiver and has the same effect as a judgment of the court and to understand that the record of the judgment will be sent to the Secretary of State. [PL 1991, c. 549, §4 (NEW); PL 1991, c. 549, §17 (AFF).]
4 M.R.S. § 159 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 5 / Section 159
4 §159. Clerks; appointment
Status: in_force

For each division, for the violations bureau and for the office of the Chief Judge, the Chief Judge shall appoint clerks and deputy clerks as necessary. A clerk of the Superior Court may also serve as the clerk of the District Court. If the business of any division or the violations bureau does not require the full-time service of a clerk, the Chief Judge may appoint a part-time clerk for that division or violations bureau. Whenever the clerk is unable to perform the duties of that office or so directs, the deputy has all the power and performs all the duties of clerk. Whenever a clerk is absent or temporarily unable to perform the duties as clerk and there is no deputy clerk authorized or available to exercise the powers and perform the duties of clerk and an existing or immediate session of the court renders it necessary, the Chief Judge may designate a clerk pro tempore who has the same powers and duties of the clerk. [PL 1995, c. 560, Pt. I, §14 (AMD).]

The clerk of the District Court may sign notices to appear in court for hearings on nonpayment of fines, counsel fees or restitution. [PL 1997, c. 135, §2 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 311 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 7 / Section 311
4 §311. Contracts for support
Status: in_force

All contracts for support for life shall be approved by the Probate Court in the county in which the support for life is to be rendered. The Probate Court shall grant approval after such reasonable notice as the court shall determine to be appropriate, if the court shall find, after hearing, that the contract is just and equitable under all of the circumstances. [PL 1969, c. 434 (NEW).]

A contract or agreement for support for life without such Probate Court approval shall not be received in evidence unless the person offering the contract or agreement shall establish by a preponderance of the evidence that the contract or agreement is just and equitable under all of the circumstances. [PL 1969, c. 434 (NEW).]

This section shall not apply to such contracts or agreements between persons related within the 3rd degree. [PL 1969, c. 434 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 1254 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 27 / Section 1254
4 §1254. Investments
Status: in_force

The board of trustees may combine funds from the Judicial Retirement Program and assets of other programs of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System for investment purposes. The assets and funds of other programs of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System and the assets and funds of the Judicial Retirement Program may not be combined for benefit payment purposes or for administrative expenses. [PL 2007, c. 491, §43 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 423 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 8 / Section 423
4 §423. Reports
Status: in_force

The Judicial Department shall report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over judiciary matters by February 15th annually on the establishment and operation of substance use disorder treatment programs in the courts. The report must cover at least the following: [PL 2019, c. 501, §1 (AMD).]

1. Training. Judicial training; [PL 1999, c. 780, §1 (NEW).]

2. Locations. Locations in which the substance use disorder treatment programs are operated in each prosecutorial district; [PL 2017, c. 407, Pt. A, §4 (AMD).]

3. Participating judges and justices. Judges and justices participating in the substance use disorder treatment programs at each location; [PL 2017, c. 407, Pt. A, §4 (AMD).]

4. Community involvement. Involvement of the local communities, including the business community and local service agencies; [PL 1999, c. 780, §1 (NEW).]

5. Education. Educational components; [PL 1999, c. 780, §1 (NEW).]

6. Existing resources. Use of existing substance use disorder resources; [PL 2017, c. 407, Pt. A, §4 (AMD).]

7. Statistics. Statistical summaries of each substance use disorder treatment program; [PL 2017, c. 407, Pt. A, §4 (AMD).]

8. Collaboration. Demonstration of the collaboration required under section 421, subsection 3 , including agreements and contracts, the entities collaborating with the Judicial Department, the value of the agreements and contracts and the amount of financial assistance provided by each entity; and [PL 1999, c. 780, §1 (NEW).]

9. Evaluation of programs. Evaluation of substance use disorder treatment programs individually and overall. [PL 2017, c. 407, Pt. A, §4 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 653 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 15 / Section 653
4 §653. Authentication of evidence
Status: in_force

In all cases coming before the Law Court from the Supreme Judicial Court or from the Superior Court in which a copy of the evidence is required by statute, rule of court or order of the presiding justice, a certificate signed by the Official Court Reporter or a transcriber of an electronically recorded record, stating that the report furnished by the reporter or transcriber is a correct transcript of the reporter's stenographic notes or the electronically recorded record of the testimony and proceedings at the trial of the cause, is a sufficient authentication of the reporter's stenographic notes or the electronically recorded record without the signature of the presiding justice. [PL 2007, c. 539, Pt. JJ, §3 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 168 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 5 / Section 168
4 §168. Examination to determine sanity of accused
Status: in_force

A Judge of the District Court may order a person, who is accused of an offense, to be examined by a physician without delay, to determine whether or not such person is insane. The cost of such examination shall be paid from the treasury of the county in which the action is pending. [PL 1967, c. 222 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1612 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1612
4 §1612. Governmental functions
Status: in_force

The carrying out by the authority of the powers and duties conferred upon it by this Act is considered to be the performance of an essential function. Nothing contained in this Act may in any way limit or restrict the powers and duties of the authority granted to it. [PL 1997, c. 523, §19 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1806 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 37 / Section 1806
4 §1806. Information not public record
Status: in_force

Disclosure of information and records in the possession of the commission is governed by this section. [PL 2011, c. 260, §1 (NEW).]

1. Definitions. As used in this section, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings. A. "Individual client information" means name; date of birth; social security number; gender; ethnicity; home, work, school or other address; home telephone number; fax number; e-mail address; cellular telephone number; pager number; and any information protected under the Maine Rules of Evidence, Rules 501 to 509 or the Maine Rules of Professional Conduct, Rule 1.6 or otherwise protected by the attorney-client relationship. [PL 2023, c. 638, §17 (AMD).] B. "Personal contact information" means home address, home telephone number, home fax number, home e-mail address, personal cellular telephone number, personal pager number, date of birth and social security number. [PL 2023, c. 638, §17 (AMD).] C. "Request for funds for expert or investigative assistance" means a request submitted to the commission by or on behalf of a person eligible for indigent legal services seeking authorization to expend funds for expert or investigative assistance, which includes, but is not limited to, the assistance of a private investigator, interpreter or translator, psychiatrist, psychologist or other mental health expert, medical expert and scientific expert. [PL 2023, c. 638, §17 (AMD).] D. "Case information" means: (1) The court in which a case is brought; (2) Any criminal charges or juvenile crime charges and the type, but not the contents, of any petition giving rise to a case; (3) The docket number; (4) The identity of assigned counsel and the date of assignment; (5) The withdrawal of assigned counsel and the date of withdrawal; and (6) Any order for reimbursement of assigned counsel fees. [PL 2011, c. 547, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2023, c. 638, §17 (AMD).]

2. Confidential information. The following information and records in the possession of the commission are not open to public inspection and do not constitute public records as defined in Title 1, section 402, subsection 3 . A. Individual client information is confidential, except that the names of criminal defendants and the names of juvenile defendants charged with offenses that if committed by an adult would constitute murder or a Class A, Class B or Class C crime are not confidential. [PL 2023, c. 638, §17 (AMD).] B. [PL 2023, c. 638, §17 (RP).] C. Personal contact information of a commission-rostered attorney is confidential. [PL 2011, c. 260, §1 (NEW).] D. Personal contact information of a member of the commission or a commission employee, including employed counsel and public defenders, is confidential. [PL 2023, c. 638, §17 (AMD).] E. A request for funds for expert or investigative assistance is confidential. The decision of the executive director of the commission hired pursuant to section 1804, subsection 1 , or the executive director's designee, to grant or deny such a request is not confidential after a case has been completed. A case is completed when the judgment is affirmed on appeal or the period for appeal has expired. [PL 2023, c. 638, §17 (AMD).] F. Any information obtained or gathered by the commission through a formal or informal complaint or when performing an evaluation or investigation of an attorney is confidential, except: (1) The commission may disclose the information to the attorney who is the subject of the formal or informal complaint, evaluation or investigation; (2) The executive director of the commission hired pursuant to section 1804, subsection 1 , or the executive director's designee, may disclose the information to the Maine Assistance Program for Lawyers described in Title 14, section 164‑A ; (3) If the attorney who is subject to an evaluation or investigation appeals a decision of the executive director or the executive director's designee, in accordance with the process established under section 1804, subsection 3, paragraph J , the information may be disclosed at a public hearing conducted by the commission on the appeal, except that information that is protected by the attorney-client privilege or that is confidential under any provision of law, the Maine Rules of Evidence or the Maine Rules of Professional Conduct remains confidential; and (4) As provided in subsection 4. [PL 2023, c. 638, §17 (AMD).] G. Materials, handouts, recordings and other documents produced, obtained or otherwise acquired by the commission in connection with providing or preparing to provide training and evaluation programs for attorneys who are or may seek to become assigned counsel, employed counsel, public defenders or contract counsel. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, the commission may disseminate materials governed by this paragraph to the extent necessary to comply with its duties under this chapter without waiving the confidentiality of the materials. [PL 2025, c. 415, §4 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 415, §4 (AMD).]

3. Confidential information disclosed by Judicial Department. The Judicial Department may disclose to the commission confidential information necessary for the commission to carry out its functions, including, but not limited to, the collection of amounts owed to reimburse the State for the cost of assigned counsel, as follows: A. Case information and individual client information with respect to court proceedings that are confidential by statute or court rule in which one or more parties are represented by assigned counsel; and [PL 2011, c. 547, §2 (NEW).] B. The name, address, date of birth and social security number of any person ordered by the court to reimburse the State for some or all of the cost of assigned counsel. [PL 2011, c. 547, §2 (NEW).] Information received by the commission from the Judicial Department under this subsection remains confidential in the possession of the commission and is not open to public inspection, except that the names of criminal defendants and the names of juvenile defendants charged with offenses that if committed by an adult would constitute murder or a Class A, Class B or Class C crime are not confidential. [RR 2023, c. 2, Pt. A, §3 (COR).]

4. Rules of professional conduct. Nothing in this section prohibits the executive director of the commission hired pursuant to section 1804, subsection 1 , or the executive director's designee, from reporting potential professional misconduct under the Maine Rules of Professional Conduct to the Board of Overseers of the Bar or from disclosing information and records related to potential professional misconduct to the board. [PL 2023, c. 638, §17 (AMD).]

5. Confidential information possessed by employed counsel and public defenders. Records, information and materials created, received, obtained, maintained or stored by or on behalf of employed counsel and public defenders that are protected under the Maine Rules of Evidence, Rules 501 to 509 or the Maine Rules of Professional Conduct, Rule 1.6 or otherwise protected by the attorney-client relationship are confidential. [PL 2023, c. 638, §17 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 6-A — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 6-A
4 §6-A. Active Retired Justice of Supreme Judicial Court to sit in Superior Court
Status: in_force

An Active Retired Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court may be assigned by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court to sit in the Superior Court in any county, and when so directed the Active Retired Justice has authority and jurisdiction in that county as if the Active Retired Justice were a regular Justice of the Superior Court; and, whenever the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court so directs, the Active Retired Justice may hear all matters and issue all orders, notices, decrees and judgments that any Justice of the Superior Court is authorized to hear and issue. [PL 2019, c. 475, §36 (AMD).]

The order of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court directing an Active Retired Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court to sit in the Superior Court must be filed with the Executive Clerk of the Supreme Judicial Court, but need not be docketed or otherwise recorded in any case heard by the Active Retired Justice. [PL 2019, c. 475, §36 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 807 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 17 / Section 807
4 §807. Unauthorized practice of law
Status: in_force

1. Prohibition. No person may practice law or profess to practice law within the State or before its courts, or demand or receive any remuneration for those services rendered in this State, unless that person has been admitted to the bar of this State and has complied with section 806‑A , or unless that person has been admitted to try cases in the courts of this State under section 802 . [PL 1989, c. 755 (RPR).]

2. Violation. Any person who practices law in violation of these requirements is guilty of the unauthorized practice of law, which is a Class E crime. [PL 1989, c. 755 (RPR).]

3. Application. This section shall not be construed to apply to: A. Practice before any Federal Court by any person admitted to practice therein; [PL 1989, c. 755 (RPR).] B. A person pleading or managing that person's own cause in court; [PL 1989, c. 755 (RPR).] C. An officer or authorized employee of a corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship or governmental entity, or a member, manager or authorized employee of a limited liability company, who is not an attorney but is appearing for that organization: (1) In an action cognizable as a small claim under Title 14, chapter 738 ; or (2) For the purposes of entering a plea or answer and paying the fine or penalty for a violation by that organization of Title 23, chapter 24 or Title 29‑A ; [PL 2001, c. 119, §1 (AMD).] D. A person who is not an attorney, but is representing a municipality under: (1) Title 30‑A, section 2671, subsection 3 ; (3) Title 30‑A, section 4452, subsection 1 ; or (4) Title 38, section 441, subsection 2 ; [PL 1997, c. 296, §1 (AMD).] E. A person who is not an attorney, but is representing the Department of Environmental Protection under Title 38, section 342, subsection 7 ; [PL 1989, c. 755 (RPR).] F. A person who is not an attorney, but is representing the Bureau of Unemployment Compensation or the Bureau of Revenue Services under section 807‑A ; [PL 1995, c. 560, Pt. G, §1 (AMD); PL 1997, c. 526, §14 (AMD).] G. A person who is not an attorney, but is representing a party in any hearing, action or proceeding before the Workers' Compensation Board as provided in Title 39‑A, section 317 ; [PL 1995, c. 419, §1 (AMD).] H. A person who is not an attorney but has been designated to represent the Department of Health and Human Services under Title 22, section 3473, subsection 3 or under Title 22‑A, section 207, subsection 7 in Probate Court proceedings; [PL 2007, c. 539, Pt. N, §4 (AMD).] I. A person who is not an attorney, but is representing the Department of Health and Human Services in a child support enforcement matter as provided by Title 14, section 3128‑A, subsection 7 ; Title 18‑C, section 5‑204 ; and Title 19‑A, section 2361, subsection 10 ; [PL 2017, c. 402, Pt. C, §5 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 417, Pt. B, §14 (AFF).] J. For the purposes of defending a civil action filed against a corporation, an officer of the corporation if the corporation is organized in this State and has 5 or fewer shareholders; [PL 1997, c. 683, Pt. E, §2 (AMD).] K. A person who is not an attorney, but who is representing the Department of Health and Human Services in accordance with Title 19‑A, section 1615 ; Title 19‑A, section 2009, subsection 8 ; Title 19‑A, section 2201, subsection 1‑B ; and Title 19‑A, section 2202, subsection 1‑B ; [PL 1999, c. 139, §1 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 689, Pt. B, §6 (REV).] L. A person who is not an attorney, but who is representing the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry in accordance with Title 7, section 3909, subsection 2 ; [PL 2003, c. 278, §1 (AMD); PL 2011, c. 657, Pt. W, §5 (REV).] M. A law enforcement officer, as defined in Title 29‑A, section 101, subsection 30 , who is not an attorney but who is representing the State in the prosecution of a traffic infraction, as defined in Title 29‑A, section 101, subsection 85 , when representation in that matter has been approved by the prosecuting attorney; [PL 2007, c. 249, §4 (AMD).] N. A person who is not an attorney, but is representing the State under section 807‑A ; [PL 2007, c. 611, §1 (AMD).] O. A person who is not an attorney, but who is representing a party in any hearing, action or proceeding before the Maine Public Employees Retirement System; [PL 2009, c. 480, §1 (AMD).] P. A person who is not an attorney but who, as the executive director of the State Harness Racing Commission, is representing the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry at adjudicatory hearings before the commission in accordance with Title 8, section 263‑C ; [PL 2013, c. 45, §1 (AMD); PL 2013, c. 134, §1 (AMD).] Q. A person who is an attorney admitted to practice in another United States jurisdiction to the extent permitted by rules of professional conduct adopted by the Supreme Judicial Court; [RR 2013, c. 1, §5 (COR).] R. A person who is not an attorney but who is a public accountant, enrolled agent, enrolled actuary or any other person permitted to represent the taxpayer under Title 36, section 151‑A, subsection 2 and is representing a party in any hearing, action or proceeding before the Maine Board of Tax Appeals in accordance with Title 36, section 151‑D ; [PL 2019, c. 449, §1 (AMD).] Revisor's Note: (Paragraph R as enacted by PL 2013, c. 134, §3 is REALLOCATED TO TITLE 4, SECTION 807, SUBSECTION 3, PARAGRAPH S) S. (REALLOCATED FROM T. 4, §807, sub-§3, ¶R) An individual who is the sole member of a limited liability company or is a member of a limited liability company that is owned by a married couple, domestic partners or an individual and that individual's issue as defined in Title 18‑C, section 1‑201, subsection 27 who is not an attorney but is appearing for that company in an action for forcible entry and detainer pursuant to Title 14, chapter 709 ; [PL 2021, c. 567, §4 (AMD).] T. A marine patrol officer who is not an attorney but is representing the Department of Marine Resources in a libel proceeding before a District Court under Title 12, section 6207 ; [PL 2025, c. 97, §1 (AMD).] U. Practice, pursuant to a rule of the Supreme Judicial Court, by a law student enrolled in a law school accredited by the American Bar Association; or [PL 2025, c. 97, §2 (AMD).] V. An attorney certified by the judge advocate general of that attorney's respective military branch representing Maine National Guard members in proceedings conducted pursuant to Title 37‑B, section 415‑A . [PL 2025, c. 97, §3 (NEW).] [PL 2025, c. 97, §§1-3 (AMD).]

4. Evidence. In all proceedings, the fact, as shown by the records of the Board of Overseers of the Bar, that that person is not recorded as a member of the bar shall be prima facie evidence that that person is not a member of the bar licensed to practice law in the State. [PL 1989, c. 755 (RPR).]
4 M.R.S. § 16 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 16
4 §16. Assistants and employees of State Court Administrator
Status: in_force

With the approval of the Chief Justice and within the limits of appropriations made therefor, the State Court Administrator may appoint assistants and other employees and purchase or lease equipment, services and facilities needed for the performance of the duties of the administrator. All administrative personnel in the Judicial Department are supervised by the State Court Administrator. [PL 1993, c. 675, Pt. C, §1 (AMD).]

These personnel must have qualifications as prescribed by the Supreme Judicial Court. [PL 1993, c. 675, Pt. C, §1 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 170 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 5 / Section 170
4 §170. Commanding assistance for arrest
Status: in_force

Upon view of an affray, riot, assault or battery, Judges of the District Court may, without warrant, command the assistance of any sheriff, deputy sheriff, constable or person present to repress the same and to arrest all concerned therein.
4 M.R.S. § 1402 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 29 / Section 1402
4 §1402. General provisions
Status: in_force

1. Application. The retirement benefits of all judges who retired prior to December 1, 1984 are governed by this chapter. [PL 2005, c. 386, Pt. R, §1 (NEW).]

2. Administration. Beginning on the effective date of this subsection, this chapter is administered by the Board of Trustees of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System. The trustees and the system are entitled to rely upon the books, records and reports provided to the board with respect to the payments, liabilities, beneficiary designations and all transactions conducted prior to the effective date of this subsection, and must be indemnified and held harmless by the State with respect to any such matters. On and after the effective date of this subsection, the Board of Trustees of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System is responsible for the payment of the retirement allowance under this section from the pre-1984 judicial retirement fund. [PL 2005, c. 386, Pt. R, §1 (NEW); PL 2007, c. 58, §3 (REV).]
4 M.R.S. § 58 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 58
4 §58. Courthouse Security Fund
Status: in_force

1. Creation of fund. The Courthouse Security Fund, referred to in this section as "the fund," is created under the jurisdiction and control of the Supreme Judicial Court. [PL 2005, c. 113, §1 (NEW).]

2. Source of fund. The fund consists of all money appropriated or allocated for inclusion in the fund, from whatever source, and any other resources available to the fund. [PL 2005, c. 113, §1 (NEW).]

3. Application of fund. Money in the fund may be used to improve security and improve public safety at court facilities under the control of the State or a subdivision of the State. Money in the fund not needed to meet the requirements of this subsection may accrue interest and be invested in a manner permitted by law. [PL 2005, c. 113, §1 (NEW).]

4. Revolving fund. The fund is a nonlapsing, revolving fund. [PL 2005, c. 113, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 107-A — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 3 / Section 107-A
4 §107-A. Authority of clerks to issue process for arrest of persons
Status: in_force

The Chief Justice of the Superior Court may authorize any clerk or deputy clerk of the Superior Court to issue process for the arrest of persons charged with crimes if the Chief Justice of the Superior Court is satisfied that the clerk or deputy clerk has the necessary training and learning to perform that function. When authorized by the Chief Justice of the Superior Court to issue process and acting in that capacity, the clerk or deputy clerk is considered a justice of the peace with the same authority as a District Court clerk or deputy clerk described in section 161 . A clerk or deputy clerk who is authorized to issue process serves in that capacity at the pleasure of the Chief Justice of the Superior Court. [PL 2005, c. 540, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 1620 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1620
4 §1620. Continuing disclosure
Status: in_force

With respect to any securities of the authority, the Treasurer of State may enter into any agreement for the benefit of holders of securities of the authority to provide annual financial information with respect to the State in order to assist underwriters of the securities of the authority in complying with any applicable regulation promulgated by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission with respect to annual financial information. [PL 1997, c. 523, §21 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 1616 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1616
4 §1616. Actions against authority
Status: in_force

A member of the authority, while acting within the scope of the authority of this Act, may not be subject to any personal liability resulting from the exercise or carrying out of any of the authority's purposes or powers. [PL 1997, c. 523, §19 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1253 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 27 / Section 1253
4 §1253. Expenses
Status: in_force

All administrative operating expenses of the Judicial Retirement Program must be charged to the assets of the Judicial Retirement Program. [PL 2007, c. 491, §42 (AMD).]

1. Estimate funds biennially. [PL 2007, c. 240, Pt. U, §3 (RP).]

2. Balance. [PL 2007, c. 240, Pt. U, §3 (RP).]
4 M.R.S. § 54 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 54
4 §54. Clerks; duties; compensation; expenses of county
Status: in_force

The Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court shall appoint a clerk of the law court to serve at the Chief Justice's pleasure and shall, from time to time, designate one or more of the clerks of court or some competent person or persons to act as additional clerks of the law court. The clerk of the law court is entitled to receive such salary as the Chief Justice determines and shall devote full time to the clerk's duties. The clerk of the law court shall also act as reporter of decisions. The Chief Justice or in the Chief Justice's absence the senior justice present shall allow to the county in which any law term is held such expense as may be incurred on account of such law term, which must be paid by the State. The dockets of the law court must be made from time to time and kept as the court may direct. [PL 2019, c. 475, §37 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1617 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1617
4 §1617. Contract of State
Status: in_force

The State pledges and agrees with the holders of securities that the State will not limit or alter the rights vested in the authority to acquire, construct, reconstruct, equip and operate a project, projects or part of any project and related facilities, to establish and collect fees, charges, rentals and other charges referred to in this Act and to fulfill the terms of any agreements made with the holders of the securities or in any way impair the rights and remedies of the holders of securities until the securities, together with interest on securities, interest on any unpaid installments on interest and all costs and expenses in connection with any action or proceeding by or on behalf of the holders of securities are fully met and discharged. [PL 1987, c. 438, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 1618 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1618
4 §1618. Credit of State not pledged
Status: in_force

Securities issued under this Act do not constitute or create any debt or debts, liability or liabilities on behalf of the State or of any political subdivision of the State other than the authority or a loan of the credit of the State or a pledge of the faith and credit of the State or of any political subdivision other than the authority, but are payable solely from the funds provided for that payment. All such securities must contain on their face a statement to the effect that neither the State nor any political subdivision of the State is obligated to pay the securities or the interest on the securities, except from revenues of the authority or the project, projects or part of any project for which they are issued and that neither the faith and credit nor the taxing power of the State or of any political subdivision of the State is pledged to the payment of the principal of or the interest on the securities. The issuance of securities under this Act does not directly, indirectly or contingently obligate the State or any political subdivision of the State to levy or to pledge any form of taxation whatever or to make any appropriation for their payment. Nothing contained in this section may prevent or be construed to prevent the authority from pledging its full faith and credit to the payment of securities authorized pursuant to this Act. [PL 1997, c. 523, §19 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1232 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 27 / Section 1232
4 §1232. Executive director
Status: in_force

The Chief Executive Officer of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System is the Executive Director of the Judicial Retirement Program. The executive director has the same powers and duties with respect to the Judicial Retirement Program as with other programs of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System, except as provided in this chapter. [PL 2007, c. 491, §36 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 548, §45 (REV).]
4 M.R.S. § 1204 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 27 / Section 1204
4 §1204. Beneficiaries under disability
Status: in_force

Any beneficiary who is entitled to make an election of benefits under subchapter 5 , but is not lawfully qualified to make that election, shall have that election made in the beneficiary's behalf by the person authorized to do so by Title 18‑C, Article 5 . [PL 2017, c. 402, Pt. C, §7 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 417, Pt. B, §14 (AFF).]
4 M.R.S. § 1610-B — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1610-B
4 §1610-B. Additional securities
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any limitation on the amount of securities that may be issued pursuant to section 1606, subsection 2 , the authority may issue additional securities in an amount not to exceed $33,000,000 outstanding at any one time for a psychiatric treatment facility. [PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. NNN, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 101 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 3 / Section 101
4 §101. Constitution of court
Status: in_force

The Superior Court, as established, consists of 18 justices and such Active Retired Justices as may be appointed and serving on the court, learned in the law and of sobriety of manners. The Chief Justice of the Superior Court shall assign the Justices of the Superior Court to preside at various locations of the court. Whenever it becomes necessary, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court may designate a Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court or any Active Retired Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court to hold a term of Superior Court. The Chief Justice of the Superior Court may, when necessary, assign an Active Retired Justice of the Superior Court to hold a term of Superior Court. The Chief Justice of the Superior Court may designate any Justice of the Superior Court and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court may designate any Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court to hold one or more sessions of the Superior Court, separate from the session presided over by the justice holding the regular trial term. [PL 2023, c. 412, Pt. ZZZZ, §1 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1610-M — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1610-M
4 §1610-M. Additional securities for state-owned facility repair, improvement and construction and hazardous waste cleanup on state-owned property
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any limitation on the amount of securities that may be issued pursuant to section 1606, subsection 2 , the authority may issue additional securities in an amount not to exceed $52,910,000 outstanding at any one time for capital repairs and improvements to and construction of state-owned facilities and hazardous waste cleanup on state-owned properties. [PL 2021, c. 398, Pt. D, §1 (NEW).]

Revisor's Note: §1610-M. Additional securities; career and technical education centers and regions (As enacted by PL 2021, c. 398, Pt. SSSS, §6 is REALLOCATED TO TITLE 4, SECTION 1610-N)
4 M.R.S. § 253 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 7 / Section 253
4 §253. Jurisdiction in court where proceedings originate
Status: in_force

Subject to Title 18‑C, sections 1‑303 and 3‑201 , and except as otherwise provided in Title 18‑C, section 5‑105 , when a case is originally within the jurisdiction of the probate court in 2 or more counties, the one that first commences proceedings therein retains the same exclusively throughout. The jurisdiction assumed in any case, except in cases of fraud, so far as it depends on the residence of any person or the locality or amount of property, may not be contested in any proceeding whatever, except on an appeal or removal from the probate court in the original case or when the want of jurisdiction appears on the same record. [PL 2017, c. 402, Pt. C, §4 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 417, Pt. B, §14 (AFF).]
4 M.R.S. § 19 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 19
4 §19. Creation of judicial regions; regional court centers and regional presiding justices; duties
Status: in_force

The Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court may by order divide the State into judicial regions for administrative and venue purposes, each judicial region to contain one or more counties, but in no event may counties be divided for the creation of judicial regions. [PL 1983, c. 688, §1 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1405 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 29 / Section 1405
4 §1405. Disability benefits
Status: in_force

Any judge who, prior to that judge's retirement age, was unable, by reason of failing health, to perform that judge's duties and who was retired by majority of the justices of the court upon which that judge was sitting when retired must receive annually during the remainder of that judge's life a retirement benefit equal to 3/4 of the currently effective annual salary to be paid in the same manner as the salaries of the judges of that court from which that judge retired were paid prior to July 1, 1984. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §47 (COR).]
4 M.R.S. § 352 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 7 / Section 352
4 §352. Blanks and records provided
Status: in_force

Each county shall provide all necessary printed blanks and record books for its probate courts and courts of insolvency, and said record books may be printed to correspond with the printed blanks.
4 M.R.S. § 1234 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 27 / Section 1234
4 §1234. Medical review of disability
Status: in_force

The board of trustees may designate health care providers to provide medical consultation on judicial disability cases. [PL 2021, c. 277, §7 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 277, §45 (AFF).]
4 M.R.S. § 309 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 7 / Section 309
4 §309. Judge not to counsel or draft documents
Status: in_force

A judge of probate may not have a voice in judging and determining or be attorney or counselor in or out of court in any civil action or matter that depends on or relates to any sentence or decree made by that judge of probate in that judge of probate's office, or in any civil action for or against any executor, administrator, guardian or trustee under any last will and testament, as such, within that judge of probate's county. Any process or proceeding commenced by a judge of probate in the probate court for that judge of probate's county in violation of this section is void, and that judge of probate is liable to the party injured in damages. A judge of probate may not draft or aid in drafting any document or paper that the judge of probate is by law required to pass upon. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §13 (COR).]
4 M.R.S. § 163 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 5 / Section 163
4 §163. Funds
Status: in_force

1. District Court funds. Except as otherwise provided by law, all fines, forfeitures, surcharges, assessments and fees collected in any division of the District Court or by the violations bureau must be paid to the clerk of that District Court, who shall deposit them in a special account in a timely manner. Once each month, the clerk shall remit the sums to the Treasurer of State, who shall credit them to the General Fund. At the same time, the clerk shall remit the sums that have been collected in accordance with section 1057 ; Title 5, chapter 316‑A ; Title 7, section 3910‑A ; Title 17, section 1015 ; Title 29‑A, section 2411, subsection 7 ; and Title 34‑A, section 1210‑E, subsection 8 . Funds received by the clerk as bail in criminal cases must be deposited daily in a special account. The clerk shall deposit the funds in an interest-bearing account unless the clerk determines that it is not cost-effective to do so. Interest accrued in the account is the property of and accrues to the State. The forfeiture and setoff of bail is governed as otherwise provided by law. [PL 2023, c. 405, Pt. A, §4 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 405, Pt. A, §5 (AFF).]

2. Expenses. The Treasurer of State shall pay all sums of money produced by cases in the District Court which shall become due to state departments and agencies, municipalities, and state, county and municipal offices. [PL 1967, c. 449, §2 (RPR).]

3. District Court Building Fund. [PL 2009, c. 415, Pt. B, §2 (RP).]

4. Balance to State. The balance remaining in the District Court Fund after paying or setting aside the sums described in this section shall accrue to the State. [PL 1975, c. 735, §6 (RPR).]
4 M.R.S. § 779 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 15 / Section 779
4 §779. Application
Status: in_force

1. Application to services. This subchapter applies to court reporting services performed in this State, whether a party appears in person or by remote means, provided by: A. A court reporter or court reporting services provider, whether or not based in the State, in connection with a legal proceeding that is commenced or maintained in this State; or [PL 2013, c. 298, §1 (NEW).] B. A court reporter or court reporting services provider based in this State in connection with a legal proceeding that is commenced or maintained in a foreign jurisdiction. [PL 2013, c. 298, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2013, c. 298, §1 (NEW).]

2. Application to Judicial Branch. This subchapter does not apply to court reporting services performed by employees of the Judicial Branch or persons transcribing legal proceedings for the Judicial Branch. [PL 2013, c. 298, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 111 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 3 / Section 111
4 §111. Simultaneous and special sessions
Status: in_force

Two or more simultaneous sessions of the Superior Court may be held in the same county, or special sessions thereof may be held in any county, whenever the Chief Justice of the Superior Court determines that public convenience so requires. The business may be so divided as to secure its speedy and convenient disposal. Special sessions of the Superior Court for the transaction of civil or criminal business or both may be held in any county at any time whenever the Chief Justice of the Superior Court determines that public convenience and necessity so require. [PL 1983, c. 688, §4 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1601 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1601
4 §1601. Short title
Status: in_force

This chapter is known and may be cited as the "Maine Governmental Facilities Authority Act." [PL 1997, c. 523, §2 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 27 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 27
4 §27. Funds collected by Bureau of Revenue Services
Status: in_force

1. Generally. The State Court Administrator shall enter into an agreement with the State Tax Assessor by which the Department of Administrative and Financial Services, Bureau of Revenue Services may collect on the Judicial Department's behalf fees, fines, costs and penalties, the imposition of which is provided for by this Title. Any such agreement must specify which categories of fees, fines, forfeitures, costs and penalties are to be collected by the Bureau of Revenue Services. [PL 1997, c. 24, Pt. II, §4 (NEW); PL 1997, c. 526, §14 (AMD).]

2. Notice and demand; remedies provided by Title 36. The State Tax Assessor shall provide notice substantially equivalent to that set forth in Title 36, section 171 . Once notice and a demand for payment have been provided, the State Tax Assessor may proceed to collect the amount due by any collection method authorized by Title 36 . [PL 1997, c. 24, Pt. II, §4 (NEW).]

3. Deposited in General Fund. Funds collected on behalf of the Judicial Department by the State Tax Assessor must be deposited in the proper fund in State Government, except that, for the 1998-1999 biennium, the State Tax Assessor may retain sufficient funds to cover the administrative expenses incurred in collection. After the 1998-1999 biennium, the Judicial Department shall budget sufficient funds to pay the Department of Administrative and Financial Services, Bureau of Revenue Services, Bureau of Revenue Services Fund, Internal Services Fund account on a cost-reimbursement basis for services provided. [PL 1997, c. 643, Pt. F, §1 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 32 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 32
4 §32. Procedures; advisory committee
Status: in_force

1. Collective bargaining. The Supreme Judicial Court may propose appropriate procedures for defining and implementing the collective bargaining rights of Judicial Department employees, including, without limitation, definition of employees and appropriate subjects of collective bargaining, determination of appropriate bargaining units, certification and election of a bargaining agent, appeals process, impasse resolution procedure and enforcement mechanisms. [PL 1983, c. 412, §1 (NEW).]

2. Advisory committee. The Supreme Judicial Court shall designate an advisory committee to recommend procedures. The committee shall include representatives of public sector management and public sector bargaining agents. Opportunity shall be provided for the expression of views of Judicial Department employees. [PL 1983, c. 412, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 1931 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 39 / Section 1931
4 §1931. Uniformity of application and construction
Status: in_force

In applying and construing this chapter, consideration must be given to the need to promote uniformity of the law with respect to its subject matter among states that enact it. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]
4 M.R.S. § 1920 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 39 / Section 1920
4 §1920. Journal
Status: in_force

1. Journal required. A notarial officer shall maintain a journal for all electronic and remote notarizations. A notarial officer may maintain a journal for all tangible notarizations. The notarial officer shall retain the journal for 10 years after the performance of the last notarial act chronicled in the journal. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]

2. Tangible medium or electronic format permitted. A journal under this section may be created on a tangible medium or in an electronic format. A notarial officer shall maintain only one journal at a time to chronicle all notarial acts performed regarding tangible records and one or more journals to chronicle all notarial acts performed regarding electronic records. If the journal is maintained on a tangible medium, it must be a permanent, bound register with numbered pages. If the journal is maintained in an electronic format, it must be in a permanent, tamper-evident electronic format complying with the rules of the Secretary of State. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]

3. Requirements. An entry in a journal must be made contemporaneously with performance of the notarial act and contain the following information: A. The date and time of the notarial act; [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).] B. A description of the record, if any, and type of notarial act; [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).] C. The full name and address of each individual for whom the notarial act is performed; [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).] D. If identity of the individual is based on personal knowledge, a statement to that effect; [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).] E. If identity of the individual is based on satisfactory evidence, a brief description of the method of identification and the identification credential presented, if any, including the dates of issuance and expiration of any identification credential; and [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).] F. The fee, if any, charged by the notarial officer. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).] [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]

4. Lost or stolen journal. If a notarial officer's journal is lost or stolen, the officer shall promptly notify the Secretary of State on discovering that the journal is lost or stolen. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]

5. Retention. On resignation from, or the revocation or suspension of, a notary public's commission, the former notary public shall retain the former notary public's journal in accordance with subsection 1 and inform the Secretary of State where the journal is located. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]

6. Alternative to retention. Instead of retaining a journal as provided in subsection 5 , a former notary public may transmit the journal to the Secretary of State or a repository approved by the Secretary of State. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]

7. Death or incompetency of notary public. On the death or adjudication of incompetency of a current or former notary public, the notary public's personal representative or guardian or any other person knowingly in possession of the journal shall transmit it to the Secretary of State or a repository approved by the Secretary of State. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]
4 M.R.S. § 304 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 7 / Section 304
4 §304. Equity and contested cases; time and place of hearing
Status: in_force

Judges of probate may hold hearings for matters in equity and contested cases at such time and place in the county as the judge of probate may appoint and make all necessary orders and decrees relating thereto, and when hearings are held at other places than those fixed for holding the regular terms of court, the judge is allowed, in addition to that judge's regular salary, $5 per day and actual expenses, which must be paid by the State unless otherwise provided by law. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §9 (COR).]
4 M.R.S. § 774 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 15 / Section 774
4 §774. Comparable treatment of parties
Status: in_force

1. Itemized statement. At any time during or following a legal proceeding, an attorney or a party is entitled to an itemized statement of the rates and charges for all services that have been or will be provided by a court reporter or court reporting services provider that is providing court reporting services to any party to the legal proceeding. [PL 2013, c. 298, §1 (NEW).]

2. Information to parties. A court reporter or court reporting services provider shall provide to the parties information on prices, terms and conditions of court reporting services in sufficient time prior to the commencement of the legal proceeding to allow the parties the opportunity to effectively negotiate for any changes necessary to ensure that comparable terms and conditions are made available to all parties. [PL 2013, c. 298, §1 (NEW).]

3. Information to court. Upon request, a court reporter or court reporting services provider shall provide an itemized invoice of all rates and charges for court reporting services provided to the administrative body, court or administrative tribunal in which the action upon which the legal proceeding is based is pending or scheduled to be heard. [PL 2013, c. 298, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 1610-P — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1610-P
4 §1610-P. Additional securities for capital repairs, improvements and construction and hazardous waste cleanup
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any limitation on the amount of securities that may be issued pursuant to section 1606, subsection 2 , the authority may issue additional securities in an amount not to exceed $71,050,000 outstanding at any one time for capital repairs and improvements to and construction of state-owned facilities and hazardous waste cleanup on state-owned properties. [PL 2023, c. 412, Pt. F, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 116 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 3 / Section 116
4 §116. Funds of court
Status: in_force

All revenue received by the Supreme Judicial Court or Superior Court, whether directly or pursuant to an agreement entered into with the Department of Administrative and Financial Services, Bureau of Revenue Services, from fines, forfeitures, penalties, fees and costs accrues to the State, except as otherwise provided under section 1057 ; Title 7, section 3910‑A ; Title 12, section 10203 ; Title 17, section 1015 ; Title 23, section 1653 ; Title 29‑A, section 2602 ; and Title 34‑A, section 1210‑E, subsection 8 . [PL 2023, c. 405, Pt. A, §2 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 405, Pt. A, §3 (AFF).]

Funds received by the clerk as bail in criminal cases must be deposited daily in a special account. The clerk shall deposit the funds in an interest-bearing account unless the clerk determines that it is not cost effective to do so. Interest accrued in such an account is the property of and accrues to the State. The forfeiture and setoff of bail is as otherwise provided by law. [PL 1991, c. 132, §1 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1906 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 39 / Section 1906
4 §1906. Personal appearance required
Status: in_force

If a notarial act relates to a statement made in or a signature executed on a record, the individual making the statement or executing the signature shall appear personally before the notarial officer. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]
4 M.R.S. § 806 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 17 / Section 806
4 §806. Attorney's oath
Status: in_force

Upon admission to the bar, every applicant shall, in open court, take and subscribe an oath to support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of this State, and take the following oath, or, in the case of an applicant conscientiously scrupulous of taking an oath, such applicant shall make appropriate affirmations to the same effect: [PL 1975, c. 66, §5 (AMD).]

"You solemnly swear that you will do no falsehood nor consent to the doing of any in court, and that if you know of an intention to commit any, you will give knowledge thereof to the justices of the court or some of them that it may be prevented; you will not wittingly or willingly promote or sue any false, groundless or unlawful suit nor give aid or consent to the same; that you will delay no man for lucre or malice, but will conduct yourself in the office of an attorney within the courts according to the best of your knowledge and discretion, and with all good fidelity, as well as to the courts, as to your clients. So help you God."
4 M.R.S. § 1504 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 31 / Section 1504
4 §1504. Facilities
Status: in_force

The State Court Administrator shall provide a principal office for the Court Appointed Special Advocate Program and shall arrange for such facilities throughout the State as are necessary and adequate for the court appointed special advocates to conduct their duties. [PL 1997, c. 393, Pt. C, §1 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 563 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 13 / Section 563
4 §563. Record of civil cases
Status: in_force

After the rendition of final judgment or decree in any civil action, the clerk shall, as soon as may be, make such a record thereof in short form, except in such specific instances as the court by general rule or special order may direct. If either party files a request and tenders the fees therefor, a full, extended record shall be made. The court may establish the form of such short form record and full, extended record.
4 M.R.S. § 195 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 6 / Section 195
4 §195. County law libraries
Status: in_force

There must be a County Law Library Committee in each county in which a county law library is located. The members of the committee must be appointed or elected by the county bar association, or other governing body, as its bylaws may provide. Membership on the committee need not be restricted to attorneys. The County Law Library Committee shall appoint a chair, a treasurer and a clerk. [PL 2001, c. 250, §3 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 702 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 15 / Section 702
4 §702. Duties
Status: in_force

The Reporter of Decisions shall prepare correct reports of all legal questions argued and decided, reporting cases more or less at large according to the reporter's judgment of their importance. The reporter shall publish periodic advance sheets and at least one volume of Maine Reports yearly. The reporter shall, subject to the approval of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court, make a written contract in the name of the State with any person, firm or corporation for the printing, publishing and binding of those reports. The price of each volume and the advance sheets must be stated in the contract. The reporter may require the person, firm or corporation with whom the reporter contracts to give a good and sufficient bond with good and sufficient sureties, conditioned for the faithful performance of all the terms and conditions of that contract by the person, firm or corporation with whom the reporter contracts. In case of a breach of any or all of the conditions of the bond, the reporter may maintain an action on the bond in the name of the State. In the exercise of any discretionary powers vested in the reporter by this section or by section 57 , the Reporter of Decisions shall act in accordance with such instructions or advice received from the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court. [PL 2019, c. 475, §48 (AMD).]

All copies of the Maine Reports purchased by the State must be delivered to the State Law Librarian for distribution as provided in Title 3, section 173, subsection 3, paragraph B . [PL 2019, c. 475, §48 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 201 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 7 / Section 201
4 §201. Courts of record; seal; punishment for contempt
Status: in_force

Courts of probate are courts of record. Each shall have an official seal, of which the register shall have the custody. They may issue any process necessary for the discharge of their official duties and punish for contempt of their authority.
4 M.R.S. § 72 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 2 / Section 72
4 §72. Inapplicability of Title 5, section 6 qualification requirements
Status: in_force

The provisions of Title 5, section 6 do not apply to judicial officers appointed pursuant to the Constitution of Maine, Article V, Part First, Section 8. [PL 2025, c. 124, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 1918 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 39 / Section 1918
4 §1918. Official stamp
Status: in_force

A notary public may keep an official stamp, which must: [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]

1. Information included. Include the notary public's name, jurisdiction, commission expiration date and other information required by the Secretary of State; and [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]

2. Capable of being copied. Be capable of being copied together with the record to which it is affixed or attached or with which it is logically associated. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]
4 M.R.S. § 1802-A — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 37 / Section 1802-A
4 §1802-A. Employed counsel and public defender
Status: in_force

An attorney may be employed by the commission both as "employed counsel" and as a "public defender." [PL 2023, c. 638, §4 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 1610-R — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1610-R
4 §1610-R. Additional securities for capital construction, repairs and improvements and hazardous waste cleanup
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any limitation on the amount of securities that may be issued pursuant to section 1606, subsection 2 , the authority may issue additional securities in an amount not to exceed $28,000,000 outstanding at any one time for capital repairs and improvements to and construction of state-owned facilities and hazardous waste cleanup on state-owned properties. [PL 2025, c. 388, Pt. J, §1 (NEW).]

Revisor's Note: §1610-R. Additional securities; legislative branch (As enacted by PL 2025, c. 454, §1 is REALLOCATED TO TITLE 4, SECTION 1610-T)
4 M.R.S. § 806-A — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 17 / Section 806-A
4 §806-A. License to practice subject to condition
Status: in_force

Each person who is admitted to practice as an attorney in this State must complete, within 18 months after that person's license is issued, any practical skills course approved by the board. This period may be enlarged by a Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court on motion for good cause shown during that period. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §24 (COR).]

If an attorney fails to complete this course within the time allowed, the board shall notify the Supreme Judicial Court and the Board of Overseers of the Bar that the attorney's license is invalid and continued practice of law is unauthorized under section 807 . [PL 1985, c. 124, §7 (NEW).]

An attorney who loses that attorney's license under this section must be readmitted after notifying the Supreme Judicial Court and the Board of Overseers of the Bar of that attorney's later compliance with this section. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §24 (COR).]
4 M.R.S. § 1611 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1611
4 §1611. Tax exemption
Status: in_force

Securities issued under this Act shall be considered to constitute a proper public purpose and the securities so issued, their transfer and the income from the securities, including any profits made on the sale of the securities, at all times shall be exempt from taxation within the State. [PL 1987, c. 438, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 9-A — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 9-A
4 §9-A. Power to prescribe rules of evidence
Status: in_force

The Supreme Judicial Court shall have the power and authority to prescribe, repeal, add to, amend or modify rules of evidence with respect to any and all civil actions or other proceedings, and any and all proceedings in criminal cases before justices of the peace, District Courts, probate courts, Superior Courts and the Supreme Judicial Court. [PL 1987, c. 736, §2 (AMD).]

Such rules shall take effect on such date not less than 6 months after their promulgation as the Supreme Judicial Court may set. After their promulgation, the Supreme Judicial Court may repeal, amend, modify or add to such rules from time to time without a waiting period. After the effective date of said rules as promulgated or amended, all laws in conflict therewith shall be of no further force or effect. Any statute incorporated specifically or in general terms in a rule shall remain in effect. [PL 1977, c. 564, §12 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 117 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 3 / Section 117
4 §117. Other expenses of the court
Status: in_force

Within the limits of the funds and appropriations available to the Superior and Supreme Judicial Courts, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court or the Chief Justice's designee may authorize the expenditure of funds for such other expenses and capital improvements as are reasonably necessary for the efficient operation of the Superior and Supreme Judicial Courts. [PL 2019, c. 475, §41 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 252 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 7 / Section 252
4 §252. Equity jurisdiction
Status: in_force

The courts of probate shall have jurisdiction in equity, concurrent with the Superior Court, of all cases and matters relating to the administration of the estates of deceased persons, to wills and to trusts which are created by will or other written instrument. Such jurisdiction may be exercised upon complaint according to the usual course of proceedings in civil actions in which equitable relief is sought.
4 M.R.S. § 1501 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 31 / Section 1501
4 §1501. Court Appointed Special Advocate Program
Status: in_force

There is established within the Administrative Office of the Courts of the Judicial Department the Court Appointed Special Advocate Program to provide volunteer lay persons to serve as court appointed special advocates or guardians ad litem under Title 22, section 4005, subsection 1 , in child abuse and neglect cases. [PL 1997, c. 393, Pt. C, §1 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1927 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 39 / Section 1927
4 §1927. Validity of notarial acts
Status: in_force

Except as otherwise provided in section 1904, subsection 6 , the failure of a notarial officer to perform a duty or meet a requirement specified in this chapter does not invalidate a notarial act performed by the notarial officer. The validity of a notarial act under this chapter does not prevent an aggrieved person from seeking to invalidate the record or transaction that is the subject of the notarial act or from seeking other remedies based on the laws of this State other than this chapter or the laws of the United States. This section does not validate a purported notarial act performed by an individual who does not have the authority to perform notarial acts. This section does not limit the authority of the Secretary of State to reject candidate or initiative or referendum petitions under Title 21‑A on the basis of improper notarizations. [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §4 (NEW); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. A, §8 (AFF).]
4 M.R.S. § 1602 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1602
4 §1602. Maine Governmental Facilities Authority; members; compensation
Status: in_force

1. Establishment; membership. The Maine Governmental Facilities Authority is created as a body corporate and politic and a public instrumentality of the State. The exercise by the authority of powers conferred by this chapter is considered to be the performance of essential governmental functions. The authority consists of 5 members, one of whom is the Treasurer of State, serving as an ex officio, voting member, one of whom is the Commissioner of Administrative and Financial Services, serving as an ex officio, voting member, and 3 other members who shall each serve for a term of 5 years and are appointed by the Governor, subject to review by the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over state and local government and confirmation by the Legislature. Any member of the authority may be removed by the Governor for cause. In the event of vacancy occurring in the membership, the Governor shall appoint a replacement member for the remainder of that term. Each member of the authority shall serve until that member's successor is appointed and qualified. Any member of the authority is eligible for reappointment. A. The initial appointed members of the authority are appointed in a manner to stagger the terms of the members. Of the initial 3 appointed members, one is appointed to a term of 3 years; one is appointed to a term of 4 years and one is appointed to a term of 5 years. [PL 1997, c. 523, §2 (AMD).] [PL 1997, c. 523, §2 (AMD).]

2. Oath. Each member of the authority before commencing the member's duties shall take an oath to administer the duties of that office faithfully and impartially and that oath must be filed in the office of the Secretary of State. [PL 1997, c. 523, §2 (AMD).]

3. Officers; quorum. The authority shall elect from its membership a chair and a vice-chair. In addition, the authority may have a secretary and a treasurer, who may be members or nonmembers of the authority. Three members of the authority constitute a quorum and the vote of 3 members is necessary for any action taken by the authority. A vacancy in the membership of the authority does not impair the right of a quorum to exercise all the rights and perform all the duties of the authority. The authority may meet by telephonic, video, electronic or other similar means of communication with less than a quorum assembled physically at the location of a public proceeding identified in the notice required by Title 1, section 406 only if: A. Each member can hear all other members, speak to all other members and, to the extent reasonably practicable, see all other members by videoconferencing or other similar means of communication during the public proceeding, and members of the public attending the public proceeding at the location identified in the notice required by Title 1, section 406 are able to hear and, to the extent reasonably practicable, see all members participating from other locations by videoconferencing or other similar means of communication; [PL 2015, c. 449, §1 (NEW).] B. Each member who is not physically present at the location of the public proceeding and who is participating through telephonic, video, electronic or other similar means of communication identifies all persons present at the location from which the member is participating; [PL 2015, c. 449, §1 (NEW).] C. A member who participates while not physically present at the location of the public proceeding identified in the notice required by Title 1, section 406 does so only when the member's attendance is not reasonably practical. The reason that the member's attendance is not reasonably practical must be stated in the minutes of the meeting; and [PL 2015, c. 449, §1 (NEW).] D. Each member who is not physically present at the location of the public proceeding and who is participating through telephonic, video, electronic or other similar means of communication has received prior to the public proceeding all documents and materials discussed at the public proceeding, with substantially the same content as those presented at the public proceeding. Documents or other materials made available at the public proceeding may be transmitted to the member not physically present during the public proceeding if the transmission technology is available. Failure to comply with this paragraph does not invalidate an action taken by the authority at the public proceeding. [PL 2015, c. 449, §1 (NEW).] [PL 2015, c. 449, §1 (AMD).]

4. Compensation. Each member of the authority is entitled to compensation in accordance with Title 5, chapter 379 . Each member of the authority must be indemnified by the authority against expenses actually and necessarily incurred by the member in connection with the defense of any action or proceeding in which the member is made a party by reason of being or having been a member of the authority, and against any final judgment rendered against the member in that action or proceeding. [PL 1997, c. 523, §2 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 157-B — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 5 / Section 157-B
4 §157-B. Active retired judges; appointment
Status: in_force

Any Judge of the District Court who has retired from the court under this chapter prior to December 1, 1984, or any Judge of the District Court who retires or terminates that judge's service on the court in accordance with chapter 27 , except for a disability retirement, is eligible for appointment as an Active Retired Judge of the District Court as provided. The Governor, subject to review by the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over judiciary matters and to confirmation by the Legislature, may appoint any eligible judge to be an Active Retired Judge of the District Court for a term of 7 years, unless sooner removed. That judge may be reappointed for a like term. Any judge so appointed and designated thereupon constitutes a part of the court from which that judge has retired and has the same jurisdiction and is subject to the same restrictions therein as before retirement. An Active Retired Judge of the District Court may serve as an arbitrator and conduct arbitration in accordance with rules that may be adopted by the Supreme Judicial Court, except that nothing in this section requires the Supreme Judicial Court to adopt those rules. An Active Retired Judge of the District Court may chair screening panels in accordance with Title 24, chapter 21, subchapter 4‑A . An Active Retired Judge of the District Court may act only in those cases and matters and hold court only at those sessions and times as that judge is directed and assigned by the Chief Judge of the District Court. Any Active Retired Judge of the District Court may be directed by the Chief Judge to hold any session of the District Court in any district and when so directed has authority and jurisdiction therein the same as if that judge were the regular judge of that court and, whenever the Chief Judge of the District Court so orders, may hear all matters and issue all orders, notices, decrees and judgments that any Judge of that District Court is authorized to hear and issue. An Active Retired Judge of the District Court receives reimbursement for expenses actually and reasonably incurred in the performance of that judge's duties. An Active Retired Judge of the District Court may be assigned by the Chief Judge of the District Court to act as a mediator for the foreclosure mediation program in accordance with Title 14, section 6321‑A, subsection 7 . [PL 2009, c. 402, §3 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 756 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 15 / Section 756
4 §756. Transcripts deemed original papers
Status: in_force

All transcripts made and signed as provided shall be deemed original papers.
4 M.R.S. § 197 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 6 / Section 197
4 §197. Duties of treasurer and clerk
Status: in_force

The treasurer of each County Law Library Committee, under the direction of the County Law Library Committee, shall apply all private and nonstate moneys received, and all bequests and gifts, to form and operate a law library. The clerk shall keep an exact record of all the proceedings of the committee. [PL 1981, c. 501, §1 (NEW).]

The treasurer shall, annually, before the last Wednesday in July, deposit in the office of the State Court Administrator a statement of the funds received and expended by the treasurer during the preceding fiscal year. [PL 2013, c. 533, §6 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1231 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 27 / Section 1231
4 §1231. Board of trustees
Status: in_force

The Board of Trustees of the Judicial Retirement Program consists of those persons who are members of the Board of Trustees of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System. The Board of Trustees of the Judicial Retirement Program is responsible for the proper operation and implementation of the Judicial Retirement Program under this chapter. [PL 2007, c. 491, §35 (AMD).]

1. Duties. The board of trustees has the same duties with respect to the Judicial Retirement Program as with other programs of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System, including, but not limited to, those powers and duties enumerated in Title 5, chapter 421, subchapters 3 , 4 and 5 . [PL 2007, c. 491, §35 (AMD).]

2. Administration of Judicial Retirement Program. The board of trustees shall administer the Judicial Retirement Program and is authorized to adopt and publish, in accordance with Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2 , any rules necessary and proper to give effect to the intent, purposes and provisions of this chapter. [PL 2007, c. 491, §35 (AMD).]

3. Expenses. The trustees must be compensated, as provided in Title 5, chapter 379 , from the funds of the Judicial Retirement Program. [PL 2007, c. 491, §35 (AMD).]

4. Oath. Each trustee shall, within 30 days after that trustee's appointment, take an oath of office to faithfully discharge the duties of a trustee, in the form prescribed by the Constitution of Maine. The oath must be subscribed to by the trustee making it, certified by the officer before whom it is taken and immediately filed in the office of the Secretary of State. [PL 2001, c. 181, §2 (AMD).]

5. Quorum. Each voting trustee is entitled to one vote in the board of trustees. Five trustees constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business. Five votes are necessary for any resolution or action by the board of trustees at any meeting of the board of trustees. [PL 2007, c. 491, §35 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 2-A — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 2-A
4 §2-A. Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court to sit in District Court
Status: in_force

The Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court may assign a Justice or Active Retired Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court to sit in the Superior Court or the District Court, and when so directed the justice has authority and jurisdiction in the Superior Court or the District Court as if the justice were a regular justice or judge of that court. When assigned under this section, the justice may hear all matters and issue all orders, notices, decrees and judgments that any Justice of the Superior Court or Judge of the District Court is authorized to hear and issue. [PL 2001, c. 69, §1 (AMD).]

The order of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court directing a Justice or an Active Retired Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court to sit in the Superior Court or the District Court must be filed with the Executive Clerk of the Supreme Judicial Court, but need not be docketed or otherwise recorded in any case heard by that justice. [PL 2001, c. 69, §1 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 1551 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 32 / Section 1551
4 §1551. Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context indicates otherwise, the following terms have the following meanings. [PL 2013, c. 406, §1 (NEW).]

1. Division. "Division" means the Family Division within the District Court established in section 183 . [PL 2013, c. 406, §1 (NEW).]

2. Guardian ad litem. "Guardian ad litem" means a person appointed as the court's agent to represent the best interests of one or more children pursuant to Title 18‑C, section 1‑111 , Title 19‑A, section 1507 or Title 22, section 4005 . [PL 2017, c. 402, Pt. C, §8 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 417, Pt. B, §14 (AFF).]

3. Best interests of the child. "Best interests of the child" means an outcome that serves or otherwise furthers the health, safety, well-being, education and growth of the child. In applying the standard of best interests of the child in Title 18‑C and Title 19‑A cases, the relevant factors set forth in Title 19‑A, section 1653, subsection 3 must be considered. [PL 2017, c. 402, Pt. C, §9 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 417, Pt. B, §14 (AFF).]
4 M.R.S. § 7 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 7
4 §7. General jurisdiction; control of records
Status: in_force

The Supreme Judicial Court may exercise its jurisdiction according to the common law not inconsistent with the Constitution or any statute, and may punish contempts against its authority by fine and imprisonment, or either, and administer oaths. It has general superintendence of all inferior courts for the prevention and correction of errors and abuses where the law does not expressly provide a remedy and has control of all records and documents in the custody of its clerks. Whenever justice or the public good requires, it may order the expunging from the records and papers on file in any case which has gone to judgment of any name or other part thereof unnecessary to the purpose and effect of said judgment. It may issue all writs and processes, not within the exclusive jurisdiction of the Superior Court, necessary for the furtherance of justice or the execution of the laws in the name of the State under the seal of said court, attested by any justice not a party or interested in the suit and signed by the clerk.
4 M.R.S. § 1610-L — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1610-L
4 §1610-L. Additional securities
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any limitation on the amount of securities that may be issued pursuant to section 1606, subsection 2 , the authority may issue additional securities in an amount not to exceed $55,000,000 outstanding at any one time for capital repairs and improvements to state-owned facilities and hazardous waste cleanup on state-owned properties. [PL 2019, c. 343, Pt. E, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 856 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 17 / Section 856
4 §856. Conduct of prosecution
Status: in_force

The prosecution shall be conducted by the district attorney for the county where the rule is returnable, unless the justice issuing the rule appoints some other suitable counsel to perform said duty. Compulsory process shall issue to compel the attendance of witnesses, and in case of decree of removal, judgment shall be rendered in behalf of the State against the respondent for full costs to be taxed by the court. [PL 1973, c. 567, §20 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 157 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 5 / Section 157
4 §157. Judges; appointment; salary; expenses; full-time duties
Status: in_force

1. Appointment. District Court Judges are appointed as follows. A. The Governor, subject to review by the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over judiciary matters and to confirmation by the Legislature, shall appoint to the District Court 42 judges, except that, beginning July 1, 2024, the Governor, subject to review by the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over judiciary matters and to confirmation by the Legislature, shall appoint to the District Court 44 judges. At least one judge must be appointed from each district who is a resident of a county in which the district lies, except that in District 3 there must be 2 judges appointed who are residents of a county in which the district lies; in District 6 there must be 2 judges appointed who are residents of a county in which the district lies; and in District 9 there must be 2 judges appointed who are residents of a county in which the district lies. Each District Court Judge has a term of office of 7 years. To be eligible for appointment as a District Judge, a person must be a member of the bar of the State. The term "District Judge" includes the Chief Judge and Deputy Chief Judge. [PL 2023, c. 412, Pt. ZZZZ, §2 (AMD).] B. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court shall designate one of the judges as Chief Judge. The Chief Judge, with the approval of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court, shall designate one of the District Court Judges as Deputy Chief Judge who has all the duties, powers and responsibilities of the Chief Judge when the Chief Judge is unable to perform them because of illness, absence or disability. [PL 1993, c. 675, Pt. B, §4 (AMD).] [PL 2023, c. 412, Pt. ZZZZ, §2 (AMD).]

2. Chief Judge; salary. The Chief Judge of the District Court is entitled to receive a salary, for fiscal year 1998-99 and thereafter, of $94,000, to be paid biweekly. [PL 1997, c. 643, Pt. M, §7 (AMD).]

3. Deputy Chief Judge; salary. The Deputy Chief Judge of the District Court is entitled to receive a salary, for fiscal year 1998-99 and thereafter, of $92,000, to be paid biweekly. [PL 1997, c. 643, Pt. M, §8 (AMD).]

4. Associate judge; salary. Each Associate Judge of the District Court shall receive a salary as follows: A. For fiscal year 1998-99 and thereafter, $90,000, to be paid biweekly. [PL 1997, c. 643, Pt. M, §9 (RPR).] B. [PL 1989, c. 596, Pt. C, §§3, 8 (RP).] C. [PL 1989, c. 596, Pt. C, §§3, 8 (RP).] D. [PL 1989, c. 596, Pt. C, §§3, 8 (RP).] E. [PL 1989, c. 596, Pt. C, §§3, 8 (RP).] [PL 1997, c. 643, Pt. M, §9 (AMD).]

4-A. Cost-of-living adjustment. The salaries of the associate judges shall be adjusted as established in Title 4, section 4, subsection 2‑A . [PL 1989, c. 501, Pt. O, §§16, 22 (NEW).]

5. Expenses. Each judge must be reimbursed by the State, upon presentation to the State Controller of a detailed statement, for those expenses as established by judicial branch policy, actually and reasonably incurred in attending meetings and sessions of the court. Reimbursement for mileage must be paid at the rate paid state employees under Title 5, section 8 . [PL 2007, c. 539, Pt. JJ, §2 (AMD).]

6. Full-time duties. A District Court Judge shall devote full time to that District Court Judge's judicial duties. During that District Court Judge's term of office, that judge may not practice law or be the partner or associate of any person in the practice of law. [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §4 (COR).]

7. Exception. The salary provisions of this section shall not apply to judges who have retired prior to December 1, 1984. [PL 1983, c. 863, Pt. B, §§7, 45 (RPR).]
4 M.R.S. § 1610-T — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1610-T
4 §1610-T. Additional securities; legislative branch (REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 4, SECTION 1610-R)
Status: in_force

(REALLOCATED FROM TITLE 4, SECTION 1610-R)

Notwithstanding any limitation on the amount of securities that may be issued pursuant to section 1606, subsection 2 , the authority may issue additional securities in an amount not to exceed $8,000,000 outstanding at any one time for paying the costs associated with planning, purchasing, customizing and implementing an integrated electronic legislative management system to replace the existing system for the Senate and the House of Representatives. [PL 2025, c. 454, §1 (NEW); RR 2025, c. 1, Pt. A, §5 (RAL).]
4 M.R.S. § 1610-O — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1610-O
4 §1610-O. Additional securities for Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife headquarters
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any limitation on the amount of securities that may be issued pursuant to section 1606, subsection 2, the authority may issue additional securities in an amount not to exceed $39,500,000 outstanding at any one time for the purposes of paying the costs associated with the planning, design, renovation, abatement, construction, financing, furnishing and equipping of new and existing facilities to serve as a headquarters for the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. [PL 2023, c. 412, Pt. E, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 1251 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 27 / Section 1251
4 §1251. Control of funds
Status: in_force

The board of trustees is the trustee of the funds created by this chapter and shall administer those funds in the same manner as is provided for the administration of the other program funds of the Maine Public Employees Retirement System in accordance with Title 5, chapter 421, subchapters 3 and 4 . The board of trustees may establish separate funds or accounts within a fund, as necessary. [PL 2007, c. 491, §41 (AMD).]
4 M.R.S. § 161 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 5 / Section 161
4 §161. Justice of the peace; appointment; duties; salary
Status: in_force

The Chief Judge of the District Court may authorize any attorney-at-law, who is duly licensed to practice law in the State, to receive complaints and to issue process for the arrest of persons charged with offenses, to issue search warrants and to endorse certificates of commitment of the mentally ill, all in accordance with law, and to perform all other such acts and duties that are or may be authorized by law. The powers to issue process for the arrest of persons charged with offenses and to issue search warrants extend to offenses subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Passamaquoddy Tribe or the Penobscot Nation under the terms of Title 30, section 6209‑A or 6209‑B . That attorney may be known as a justice of the peace. [PL 1995, c. 388, §1 (AMD); PL 1995, c. 388, §8 (AFF).]

The justice of the peace shall serve at the pleasure of the Chief Judge of the District Court, but no term for which a justice of the peace is appointed may exceed 5 years. [PL 1987, c. 736, §3 (AMD).]

The justice of the peace shall receive such salary as shall be determined by the Chief Judge and paid as an expense of the District Court. [PL 1987, c. 736, §3 (AMD).]

The Chief Judge of the District Court may also authorize any clerk or deputy clerk of the District Court to issue process for the arrest of persons charged with offenses if the Chief Judge is satisfied that the clerk or deputy clerk has the necessary training and learning to perform that function. When acting in that capacity, the clerk or deputy clerk shall be considered a justice of the peace and shall serve at the pleasure of the Chief Judge. [PL 1987, c. 736, §3 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 8-C — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 1 / Section 8-C
4 §8-C. Rules concerning electronic records and filing
Status: in_force

1. Rules and orders; processes and procedures. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Supreme Judicial Court may adopt rules and issue orders to permit or require the use of electronic forms, filings, records, e-mail and electronic signatures whenever paper forms, filings, records, written notice, postal mail and written signatures are required for judicial, legal or any other court-related process under the Maine Revised Statutes. The Supreme Judicial Court, by rule, may determine any other processes or procedures appropriate to ensure adequate preservation, disposition, integrity, security, appropriate accessibility and confidentiality of the electronic records. After the effective date of the rules as adopted or amended, all laws in conflict with the rules are of no further effect. [PL 2021, c. 343, §1 (AMD).]

2. Electronic signatures. An electronic signature may be accepted as a substitute for and, if accepted, has the same force and effect as the use of a manual signature. The Supreme Judicial Court shall determine the type of electronic signature required, the manner and format in which the signature is affixed to the electronic record and the criteria that must be met by a party, including attorneys, filing a document. [PL 2015, c. 78, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 1610-Q — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 33 / Section 1610-Q
4 §1610-Q. Additional securities; judicial branch facilities in Androscoggin, Hancock and Somerset counties
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any limitation on the amount of securities that may be issued pursuant to section 1606, subsection 2 , the authority may issue additional securities from time to time in an aggregate amount not to exceed $205,000,000 outstanding at any one time for the purposes of paying the costs associated with the planning, purchasing, financing, acquiring, constructing, renovating, furnishing, equipping, improving, extending, enlarging and consolidating new and existing facilities and projects relating to the judicial branch in the counties of Androscoggin, Hancock and Somerset and planning for other court facilities. [PL 2023, c. 684, §1 (NEW).]
4 M.R.S. § 555 — ME Code / Title 4 / Chapter 13 / Section 555
4 §555. Fee schedule
Status: in_force

The Supreme Judicial Court shall have the authority to prescribe rules establishing the fees of clerks of the judicial courts. [PL 1979, c. 663, §10 (RPR).]