reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 21: UNIFORM PREMARITAL AGREEMENT ACT › 19-A §610. Limitation of actions

§610. Limitation of actions
A statute of limitations applicable to an action asserting a claim for relief under a premarital agreement is tolled during the marriage of the parties to the agreement. Equitable defenses limiting the time for enforcement, including laches and estoppel, are available to either party.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 21: UNIFORM PREMARITAL AGREEMENT ACT › 19-A §611. Application and construction

§611. Application and construction
This Act must be applied and construed to effectuate its general purpose to make uniform the law with respect to the subject of this Act among states enacting it.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 23: MARRIAGE › Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §650. Findings and purposes

§650. Findings and purposes
All municipal clerks, the State Registrar of Vital Statistics and courts of this State have a duty and are legally required to construe the provisions of Maine's marriage laws in accordance with the following findings and purposes:   [PL 2019, c. 340, §1 (AMD).]
1.  Findings.
The people of the State of Maine find that:
A. The union of 2 people joined in a monogamous marriage is of inestimable value to society; the State has a compelling interest to nurture and promote the unique institution of monogamous marriage in the support of harmonious families and the physical and mental health of children; and the State has the compelling interest in promoting the moral values inherent in a monogamous marriage.   [PL 2019, c. 340, §2 (AMD).]
[PL 2019, c. 340, §2 (AMD).]
2.  Purposes.
The purposes of this chapter are:
A. To encourage a monogamous family unit as the basic building block of our society, the foundation of harmonious and enriching family life;   [PL 2019, c. 340, §3 (AMD).]
B. To nurture, sustain and protect a monogamous family unit in Maine society, its moral imperatives, its economic function and its unique contribution to the rearing of healthy children; and   [PL 2019, c. 340, §3 (AMD).]
C. To support and strengthen monogamous Maine families against improper interference from out-of-state influences or edicts.   [PL 2019, c. 340, §3 (AMD).]
[PL 2019, c. 340, §3 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1997, c. 65, §2 (NEW). PL 2019, c. 340, §§1-3 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 23: MARRIAGE › Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §650-A. Codification of marriage

§650-A. Codification of marriage
Marriage is the legally recognized union of 2 people. Gender-specific terms relating to the marital relationship or familial relationships must be construed to be gender-neutral for all purposes throughout the law, whether in the context of statute, administrative or court rule, policy, common law or any other source of civil law.   [IB 2011, c. 1, §1 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
IB 2011, c. 1, §1 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 23: MARRIAGE › Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §650-B. Recognition of marriage licensed and certified in another jurisdiction

§650-B. Recognition of marriage licensed and certified in another jurisdiction
A marriage of a same-sex couple that is validly licensed and certified in another jurisdiction is recognized for all purposes under the laws of this State.   [IB 2011, c. 1, §2 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
IB 2011, c. 1, §2 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 23: MARRIAGE › Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §652. Issuance of marriage license

§652. Issuance of marriage license
1.  Marriage license issued.
After the filing of notice of intentions of marriage, except as otherwise provided, the clerk or the State Registrar of Vital Statistics shall deliver to the parties a marriage license specifying the time when the intentions were recorded.
[PL 2019, c. 340, §8 (AMD).]
2.  Marriage license to nonresidents.
[PL 2001, c. 574, §4 (RP).]
3.  Void after 90 days.
The license is void if not used within 90 days from the day the intentions were filed in accordance with section 651.
[PL 2019, c. 340, §9 (AMD).]
4.  Expedited procedure.
[PL 2001, c. 574, §4 (RP).]
5.  Informational brochure.
A marriage license may not be issued until a brochure prepared by the Department of Health and Human Services concerning the effects of alcohol and drugs on fetuses has been given to both parties. The department is responsible for making the brochures available to municipal clerks for distribution.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF); PL 2001, c. 354, §3 (AMD); PL 2003, c. 689, Pt. B, §6 (REV).]
6.  Related parties.
A marriage license may not be issued to parties related as described in section 701, subsection 2, unless the clerk or State Registrar of Vital Statistics has received from the parties the physician's certificate of genetic counseling required by section 651.
[PL 2019, c. 340, §10 (AMD).]
7.  Parties who are 17 years of age.
A marriage license may not be issued to persons who are 17 years of age without the written consent of their parents, guardians or persons to whom a court has given custody. In the absence of persons qualified to give consent, the judge of probate in the county where each minor resides may grant consent after notice and opportunity for hearing.
[PL 2023, c. 116, §1 (AMD).]
8.  Parties under 17 years of age.
The clerk or State Registrar of Vital Statistics may not issue a marriage license to a person under 17 years of age.
A. [PL 2019, c. 535, §1 (RP).]
B. [PL 2019, c. 535, §1 (RP).]
C. [PL 2019, c. 535, §1 (RP).]
[PL 2023, c. 116, §2 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF). PL 1997, c. 507, §1 (AMD). PL 1997, c. 507, §4 (AFF). PL 1997, c. 683, §E5 (AMD). PL 1997, c. 683, §E6 (AFF). PL 2001, c. 354, §3 (AMD). PL 2001, c. 574, §§3,4 (AMD). PL 2003, c. 689, §B6 (REV). PL 2019, c. 340, §§8-11 (AMD). PL 2019, c. 535, §1 (AMD). PL 2023, c. 116, §§1, 2 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 23: MARRIAGE › Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §653. Filing of cautions

§653. Filing of cautions
1.  Filing; enter notice.
A person who believes that parties are about to contract marriage when either of them can not lawfully do so may file a caution and the reasons for the caution in the office of the clerk where notice of their intentions is required to be filed or with the State Registrar of Vital Statistics. If either party applies to enter notice of their intentions, the clerk or State Registrar of Vital Statistics shall withhold the license until the judge of probate from the county involved approves the marriage.
[PL 2019, c. 340, §12 (AMD).]
2.  Procedure.
Before the judge of probate may approve a marriage, the court must give due notice and an opportunity to be heard to all concerned parties. The judge of probate shall determine whether the parties may lawfully contract marriage within 7 days unless the judge of probate certifies that further time is necessary for that purpose. In that case, a license must be withheld until the expiration of the certified time. The clerk or State Registrar of Vital Statistics shall deliver or withhold the license in accordance with the final decision of the judge of probate.
[PL 2019, c. 340, §12 (AMD).]
3.  Judgment for costs.
If the judge of probate determines that the parties may lawfully contract marriage, the judge shall enter judgment against the person filing the caution for costs and issue execution for costs.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF). PL 2019, c. 340, §12 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 23: MARRIAGE › Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §654. Record of marriages

§654. Record of marriages
1.  Copy.
Every person authorized to unite persons in marriage shall make and keep a record of every marriage solemnized by that person in conformity with the forms and instructions prescribed by the State Registrar of Vital Statistics pursuant to Title 22, section 2701.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
2.  Return of marriage license.
The person who solemnized the marriage shall return the marriage license to the State Registrar of Vital Statistics or the clerk who issued the license within 7 working days following the date on which the marriage is solemnized by that person. The clerk and the State Registrar of Vital Statistics each shall retain a copy of the license.
[PL 2019, c. 340, §13 (AMD).]
3.  Statement including officiant and witnesses.
The marriage license returned must contain a statement giving the names of the parties united in marriage, place and date of the marriage, the new name of either party if either party intends to change that party's name, the signature of the person by whom the marriage was solemnized and the names of the 2 witnesses. The person who solemnized the marriage shall add the title of the office by virtue of which the marriage was solemnized, the residence of the person who solemnized the marriage and:
A. The date ordained or authorized by a religious faith to perform marriages;   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
B. The date the marriage officiant's license expires;   [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. B, §3 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. B, §7 (AFF).]
C. The date the lawyer was admitted to the Maine Bar; or   [PL 2011, c. 111, §1 (AMD).]
D. The date the person's temporary registration certificate was issued under section 655, subsection 1‑A.   [PL 2011, c. 111, §1 (NEW).]
[PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. B, §3 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. B, §7 (AFF).]
4.  Recorded by clerk or State Registrar of Vital Statistics.
The clerk or State Registrar of Vital Statistics shall record all marriage licenses returned under this section.
[PL 2019, c. 340, §13 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF). PL 2001, c. 574, §5 (AMD). PL 2011, c. 111, §1 (AMD). PL 2019, c. 82, §2 (AMD). PL 2019, c. 340, §13 (AMD). PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. B, §3 (AMD). PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. B, §7 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 23: MARRIAGE › Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §656. License

§656. License
1.  Contents of license.
A marriage license must have conspicuously printed on it the following words: "The laws of Maine provide that only authorized persons may solemnize marriages in this State."
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
2.  Completed license; ceremony performed.
Each marriage license issued must be completed and the certification statement signed by both parties to the intended marriage. The parties' signatures may be obtained at issuance or at the time the marriage is solemnized. The completed license or licenses must be delivered by the parties to the person solemnizing the marriage. Upon completion of the solemnization, which must be performed in the presence of at least 2 witnesses other than the person officiating, the person officiating and the 2 witnesses shall sign the license or licenses, which are then known as the marriage certificate or certificates.
[PL 2021, c. 49, §2 (AMD).]
3.  Name change.
If the marriage license indicates that a party intends to change that party's name under section 654, subsection 3, the new name indicated on the license becomes effective upon completion of the marriage license pursuant to subsection 2.
[PL 2019, c. 82, §3 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF). PL 2019, c. 82, §3 (AMD). PL 2021, c. 49, §2 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 23: MARRIAGE › Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §657. Lack of jurisdiction or authority

§657. Lack of jurisdiction or authority
A marriage, solemnized before any known inhabitant of the State professing to be a justice, judge, lawyer admitted to the Maine Bar or marriage officiant or an ordained or licensed minister of the gospel, is not void, nor is its validity affected by any want of jurisdiction or authority in the justice, judge, lawyer, marriage officiant or minister or by any omission or informality in entering the intention of marriage, if the marriage is in other respects lawful and consummated with a full belief, on the part of either of the persons married, that they are lawfully married.   [PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. B, §6 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. B, §7 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF). PL 2001, c. 574, §7 (AMD). PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. B, §6 (AMD). PL 2021, c. 651, Pt. B, §7 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 23: MARRIAGE › Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §658. Quaker; Baha'i

§658. Quaker; Baha'i
A marriage solemnized among Quakers or Friends, in the form practiced in their meeting, or solemnized among members of the Baha'i faith according to the rules and principles of the Baha'i faith, is valid and not affected by this subchapter. The clerk or the keeper of the records of the meeting or ceremony in which a marriage is solemnized shall return evidence of the solemnization of the marriage as provided in section 654. A person who willfully neglects or refuses to perform the duty imposed upon that person by this section commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture not to exceed $100 for each offense may be adjudged for the use of the municipality in which the offense occurred.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 23: MARRIAGE › Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §659. Penalties

§659. Penalties
1.  Solemnization without authorization.
A person who solemnizes a marriage when not authorized to do so under section 655 commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture not to exceed $100 for each offense may be adjudged. Forfeitures collected must be distributed to the municipality in which the offense occurred.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
2.  Solemnization contrary to chapter.
A person who intentionally or knowingly joins persons in marriage in violation of this chapter commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture of $100 may be adjudged. The person may not join persons in marriage after being adjudicated as violating this subsection.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
3.  Violation by party to the marriage.
A person who contracts a marriage in violation of this chapter commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture of $100 may be adjudged. A person who makes false representations to obtain a marriage license or to cause the solemnization of marriage in violation of this chapter commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture of $100 may be adjudged.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
4.  Violation by clerk.
The clerk of a municipality who intentionally violates this chapter or falsely states the residence of either of the parties named in the license or certificate commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture of $20 for each offense may be adjudged.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 23: MARRIAGE › Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §660. Late-filed application for certificate of marriage

§660. Late-filed application for certificate of marriage
1.  Application.
The parties, or the legal representatives of the parties, to a marriage that occurred more than one year previously may apply for a certificate of marriage under this section by submitting to the State Registrar of Vital Statistics the following:
A. The license and certification statement completed in accordance with section 656;   [PL 2015, c. 193, §1 (NEW).]
B. The required filing fee; and   [PL 2015, c. 193, §1 (NEW).]
C. An application for a certificate of marriage, which must include, if available, a copy of the marriage intentions obtained from the clerk of the municipality where the intentions were filed and other documents specified in rules adopted by the State Registrar of Vital Statistics.   [PL 2015, c. 193, §1 (NEW).]
[PL 2015, c. 193, §1 (NEW).]
2.  Indication of date of filing.
The certificate of marriage issued under this section must be marked "delayed" and must indicate the date that the certificate of marriage was filed.
[PL 2015, c. 193, §1 (NEW).]
3.  Rules.
The State Registrar of Vital Statistics shall adopt rules to carry out the purposes of this section. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules pursuant to Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A.
[PL 2015, c. 193, §1 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 2015, c. 193, §1 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 23: MARRIAGE › Subchapter 3: VOID MARRIAGES AND ANNULMENT › 19-A §751. Certain marriages void without process

§751. Certain marriages void without process
The following marriages are void and dissolved without legal process:   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
1.  Solemnized in State.
A marriage prohibited in section 701, if solemnized in this State.
[PL 2009, c. 96, §1 (AMD).]
2.  Final judgment.
[PL 2009, c. 96, §1 (RP).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF). PL 2009, c. 96, §1 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 23: MARRIAGE › Subchapter 3: VOID MARRIAGES AND ANNULMENT › 19-A §752. Annulment of illegal marriages

§752. Annulment of illegal marriages
1.  Complaint; court order.
When the validity of a marriage is doubted, either party may file a complaint for annulment. The court shall order the marriage annulled or affirmed according to the evidence. The court's order does not affect the rights of the defendant unless the defendant was actually notified of the action or answered the complaint.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
2.  Parental rights and responsibilities.
The court entering an order for annulment may make an order awarding parental rights and responsibilities with respect to a minor child of the parties in accordance with chapter 55.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
3.  Name change.
Upon the request of either spouse to change that person's own name, the court, when entering judgment for annulment:
A. Shall change the name of that spouse to a former name requested; or   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
B. May change the name of that spouse to any other name requested.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
4.  Finalization.
The trial court may, upon motion for entry of final judgment during the pendency of the appeal period, grant a final judgment of annulment between the parties if the court expressly finds that there is not just cause for delay and entry of judgment will not prejudice the legal or equitable rights of a party during the pendency of an appeal. The filing of a motion under this subsection does not stay an award of child or spousal support or parental rights and responsibilities, except by order of the court under the Maine Rules of Civil Procedure.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
5.  Annulment because of prior marriage.
When a marriage is annulled due to a prior marriage, and the party who was capable of contracting the 2nd marriage contracted the 2nd marriage in good faith, believing that the prior spouse was dead, the former marriage was void or a divorce had been decreed leaving the party to the former marriage free to marry again, that fact must be stated in the decree of nullity.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 23: MARRIAGE › Subchapter 3: VOID MARRIAGES AND ANNULMENT › 19-A §753. Action to void marriage

§753. Action to void marriage
If, after a marriage has been solemnized, the State Registrar of Vital Statistics determines that the parties are not eligible to be married because the age or other requirements provided in this chapter are not satisfied, the state registrar may file an action in District Court to void the marriage.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 25: RIGHTS OF MARRIED PERSONS › 19-A §801. Holding and disposing of property

§801. Holding and disposing of property
A married person, widow or widower of any age may own in the person's own right real and personal estate acquired by descent, gift or purchase.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 25: RIGHTS OF MARRIED PERSONS › 19-A §802. Spouse's separate property

§802. Spouse's separate property
A person having property is not deprived of any part of that property by marriage, and a person acquires no right to any property of that person's spouse. A married person may release to that person's spouse the right to control that person's property or any part of it and to dispose of the income of the property for their mutual benefit, and may in writing revoke that right of control or disposal.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 25: RIGHTS OF MARRIED PERSONS › 19-A §803. Spouse's earnings

§803. Spouse's earnings
A married person may receive the wages of that person's personal labor not performed for that person's own family, maintain an action for those wages in that person's own name and hold them in that person's own right against that person's spouse or any other person.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 25: RIGHTS OF MARRIED PERSONS › 19-A §804. No liability for spouse's debts or torts; property subject to execution; partnerships

§804. No liability for spouse's debts or torts; property subject to execution; partnerships
1.  Liability for debts or torts.
A married person is not liable for the debts of that person's spouse contracted before marriage nor for those contracted in the spouse's own name for any lawful purpose. A married person is not liable for that person's spouse's torts in which that person takes no part.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
2.  Partnerships.
This section may not be construed to mean that a person is not liable for the debts, contracted in the name of the partnership, of a partnership between the person and the person's spouse or among the person, the spouse and 3rd persons. This section may not be construed to prohibit or limit the formation of a partnership between a husband and a wife or among a husband, wife and 3rd persons.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 25: RIGHTS OF MARRIED PERSONS › 19-A §805. Actions by or against spouse; arrest

§805. Actions by or against spouse; arrest
A married person may prosecute and defend civil actions, either of tort or contract, in that person's own name without the joinder of that person's spouse, for the preservation and protection of that person's property and personal rights or for the redress of that person's injuries, as if unmarried, or may prosecute these actions jointly with that person's spouse. The person's spouse may not settle or discharge any of these actions or causes of action without the written consent of the person. Neither of them can be arrested on a writ of execution arising out of these actions or causes of action, nor may the spouse alone maintain an action respecting the person's property.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 25: RIGHTS OF MARRIED PERSONS › 19-A §806. Proceedings between husband and wife

§806. Proceedings between husband and wife
1.  Civil action against spouse.
A wife may bring a civil action against her husband for the recovery, conveyance, transfer, payment or delivery to her of any property, real or personal or both, exceeding $100 in value, standing in his name, or to which he has legal title, or that is in his possession or under his control, that in equity and good conscience belongs to her and that he neglects or refuses to convey, transfer, pay over or deliver to her, and upon proper proof may maintain this action. A husband has the same right to bring and maintain a civil action against his wife for the same purposes, subject to the same limitations.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
2.  Marriage not a bar; costs.
Marriage is not a bar to the maintenance of a civil action by a wife against her husband or by a husband against his wife brought for the purposes in subsection 1. Costs may not be awarded against either party in these proceedings.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
3.  Defrauding creditors; dismissal of action.
If it satisfactorily appears to the court on hearing that the party bringing the action has conveyed or transferred any of that party's property, real or personal, to the other party to the action for the purpose of cheating, defrauding, hindering or delaying that party's creditors, the action must be dismissed.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
4.  Appeal.
An appeal from any final judgment under this section may be taken to the law court as in other civil actions.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
5.  No survival of rights.
There is no survival of the right to institute proceedings under this section, and if a wife or husband dies after the commencement of proceedings under this section and before the final determination and disposition of the proceedings, these proceedings must abate.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 29: DIVORCE › Subchapter 1: GROUNDS AND PROCEDURES › 19-A §901. Action for divorce; procedures

§901. Action for divorce; procedures
1.  Filing of complaint; grounds.
A person seeking a divorce may file a complaint for divorce in the District Court if:
A. The plaintiff has resided in good faith in this State for 6 months prior to the commencement of the action;   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
B. The plaintiff is a resident of this State and the parties were married in this State;   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
C. The plaintiff is a resident of this State and the parties resided in this State when the cause of divorce accrued; or   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
D. The defendant is a resident of this State.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
The complaint must state one or more grounds listed in section 902, subsection 1.
[PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §29 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]
2.  Guardian ad litem.
If the alleged cause is that one of the parties is an incapacitated person, as provided in section 902, subsection 1, paragraph J, the court shall appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the interests of the incapacitated person.
[PL 2005, c. 594, §1 (AMD).]
3.  Exclusion of public.
In a divorce action, at the request of either party, personally or through that party's attorney, unless the other party who has entered an appearance objects personally or through that other party's attorney, the court shall exclude the public from the court proceedings.
If the court orders that the public is to be excluded, only the parties, their attorneys, court officers and witnesses may be present.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
4.  Corroborating witness not required.
When the merits of a divorce action are not contested, whether or not an answer has been filed, there is no requirement that the testimony of the complaining party be corroborated by witnesses.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
5.  Fraud.
The court may not grant a divorce when the parties seek to procure a divorce for fraudulent purposes.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
6.  Attorney's fees and costs.
Attorney's fees awarded in the nature of support may be made payable immediately or in installments.
[PL 2005, c. 323, §4 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF). PL 1999, c. 731, §ZZZ29 (AMD). PL 1999, c. 731, §ZZZ42 (AFF). PL 2005, c. 323, §4 (AMD). PL 2005, c. 594, §1 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 29: DIVORCE › Subchapter 1: GROUNDS AND PROCEDURES › 19-A §902. Grounds; defenses

§902. Grounds; defenses
1.  Grounds.
A divorce may be granted for one of the following causes:
A. Adultery;   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
B. Impotence;   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
C. Extreme cruelty;   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
D. Utter desertion continued for 3 consecutive years prior to the commencement of the action;   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
E. Gross and confirmed habits of intoxication from the use of liquor or drugs;   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
F. Nonsupport, when one spouse has sufficient ability to provide for the other spouse and grossly, wantonly or cruelly refuses or neglects to provide suitable maintenance for the complaining spouse;   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
G. Cruel and abusive treatment;   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
H. Irreconcilable marital differences; or   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
I.   [PL 2005, c. 594, §2 (RP).]
J. A court has appointed for one of the parties a guardian with full powers under Title 18-C, section 5-301, other than an emergency guardian appointed pursuant to Title 18-C, section 5-312.   [PL 2017, c. 402, Pt. C, §36 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 417, Pt. B, §14 (AFF).]
[PL 2017, c. 402, Pt. C, §36 (AMD); PL 2019, c. 417, Pt. B, §14 (AFF).]
2.  Irreconcilable differences; counseling.
If one party alleges that there are irreconcilable marital differences and the opposing party denies that allegation, the court upon its own motion or upon motion of either party may continue the case and require both parties to receive counseling by a qualified professional counselor to be selected either by agreement of the parties or by the court. The counselor shall give a written report of the counseling to the court and to both parties. The failure or refusal of the party who denies irreconcilable marital differences to submit to counseling without good reason is prima facie evidence that the marital differences are irreconcilable.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
3.  Recrimination.
Recrimination is a comparative rather than an absolute defense in a divorce action.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
4.  Condonation.
Condonation of the parties is not an absolute defense to any action for divorce but is discretionary with the court.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF). PL 2005, c. 594, §§2,3 (AMD). PL 2017, c. 402, Pt. C, §36 (AMD). PL 2017, c. 402, Pt. F, §1 (AFF). PL 2019, c. 417, Pt. B, §14 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 29: DIVORCE › Subchapter 1: GROUNDS AND PROCEDURES › 19-A §904. Orders pending divorce

§904. Orders pending divorce
In accordance with section 251, subsection 2, pending a divorce action, the court may:   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
1.  Attorney's fees.
[PL 2005, c. 323, §5 (RP).]
2.  Support.
Make reasonable provision for either spouse's separate support;
[PL 2005, c. 323, §6 (AMD).]
3.  Minor children.
Enter an order for the parental rights and responsibilities with respect to the minor children of the parties in accordance with chapter 55;
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
4.  Enforcement.
Enforce obedience by appropriate processes;
[PL 2005, c. 323, §6 (AMD).]
5.  Determine possession.
Determine the possession of owned or rented real and personal property pending the final divorce decree; or
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
6.  Free from restraint.
On motion of either spouse, prohibit a spouse from imposing restraint on the moving spouse's personal liberty. This subsection does not preclude the court from incarcerating either spouse for nonpayment of child support, spousal support or attorney's fees in violation of a court order to do so.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF). PL 2005, c. 323, §§5,6 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 29: DIVORCE › Subchapter 1: GROUNDS AND PROCEDURES › 19-A §905. Investigation when custody of children involved

§905. Investigation when custody of children involved
Whenever in a divorce action the custody of a minor child is involved, the court may request the department to investigate conditions and circumstances of the child and the child's parents. Upon completion of the investigation, the department shall submit a written report to the court and to counsel of record at least 3 days before the date of hearing. The report may not be further copied or distributed by anyone. A person who violates a provision of this section commits a civil violation for which a forfeiture of not more than $500 may be adjudged. Upon request of an interested party, the court shall require the person making the report to testify at the time of hearing. Whoever participates in making a report under this section or participates in a judicial proceeding as a result of the report is immune from civil or criminal liability, unless that person acted in bad faith or with malicious purpose.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
If the court requests an investigation for purposes other than suspected abuse or neglect as defined in Title 22, chapter 1071, the court shall order either or both parties to pay to the department part or all of the costs of services under this chapter, unless the court has made a finding of inability to pay. Revenue from investigations or services provided under this chapter are dedicated to the department to defray the cost of these services.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 29: DIVORCE › Subchapter 1: GROUNDS AND PROCEDURES › 19-A §906. Certain divorces validated

§906. Certain divorces validated
1.  Writ of attachment.
All divorces already granted in this State on libels inserted in a writ of attachment, and otherwise valid except for the want of attachment nominal or otherwise upon the writ, are validated.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
2.  Pendency of another claim.
All judgments or orders already entered granting a divorce, annulment, disposition of property under section 953 or former Title 19, section 722-A or other disposition, award or division of property incident upon a divorce or annulment, and otherwise final except for the pendency of another claim or counterclaim in the same action, are declared final, nonappealable and effective for all purposes as of the date of entry of the judgment or order. This subsection does not apply to any judgment for divorce, annulment or property disposition in which the appeal period, including any extensions, has commenced but has not expired as of June 30, 1981.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
3.  Finalization.
In an action for divorce under section 902, the trial court may, upon motion for entry of final judgment during the pendency of the appeal period, grant a final judgment of annulment or divorce between the parties if the court expressly finds that there is not just cause for delay and entry of judgment will not prejudice the legal or equitable rights of a party during the pendency of an appeal. The filing of a motion under this subsection does not stay an award of child or spousal support or parental rights and responsibilities, except by order of the court under the Maine Rules of Civil Procedure.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 29: DIVORCE › Subchapter 1: GROUNDS AND PROCEDURES › 19-A §907. Out-of-state divorces

§907. Out-of-state divorces
When residents of the State go out of the State for the purpose of obtaining a divorce for causes that occurred here while the parties lived here or that do not authorize a divorce here, and a divorce is thus obtained, the divorce is void in this State. In all other cases, a divorce decreed out of the State according to the law of the place, by a court having jurisdiction of the cause and of both parties, is valid here.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
The validity of a custody determination contained in or ancillary to a valid divorce decree granted by another state is governed by the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act.   [PL 2013, c. 424, Pt. B, §6 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF). PL 2013, c. 424, Pt. B, §6 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 29: DIVORCE › Subchapter 1: GROUNDS AND PROCEDURES › 19-A §908. Disclosure and recording of social security numbers

§908. Disclosure and recording of social security numbers
An individual who is a party to a divorce action must disclose that individual's social security number to the court. The social security number of any individual who is subject to a divorce decree must be placed in the court records relating to the decree. The record of an individual's social security number is confidential and is not open to the public. The court shall disclose an individual's social security number to the department for child support enforcement purposes.   [PL 1997, c. 537, §13 (NEW); PL 1997, c. 537, §62 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1997, c. 537, §13 (NEW). PL 1997, c. 537, §62 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 29: DIVORCE › Subchapter 2: SPOUSAL SUPPORT AND PROPERTY RIGHTS › 19-A §951. Spousal support (REPEALED)

§951. Spousal support
(REPEALED)
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF). PL 1997, c. 9, §2 (AMD). PL 1997, c. 9, §3 (AFF). PL 1997, c. 629, §1 (AMD). PL 1999, c. 634, §2 (RP).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 29: DIVORCE › Subchapter 2: SPOUSAL SUPPORT AND PROPERTY RIGHTS › 19-A §952. Payment of spousal support, fees and support

§952. Payment of spousal support, fees and support
1.  Definition.
As used in this section, "decree of spousal support, support or costs" means a decree or order:
A. For spousal support or payment of money instead of spousal support;   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
B. For support of children;   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
C. For support pending a divorce action;   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
D. For payment of related attorney's fees;   [PL 2005, c. 323, §7 (AMD).]
E. For alteration of an existing decree or order for the custody or support of a child; or   [PL 2005, c. 323, §7 (AMD).]
F. For division and disposition of property ancillary to a divorce judgment, including, but not limited to, proceedings to effectuate a qualified domestic relations order; to reach, attach or liquidate property; or to quiet title.   [PL 2005, c. 323, §8 (NEW).]
[PL 2005, c. 323, §§7, 8 (AMD).]
2.  Order pending petition.
Pending a petition to enforce a decree of spousal support, support or costs and after notice and opportunity for a hearing, the court may order either spouse to pay to the other spouse or to the other spouse's attorney sufficient money for the prosecution of or defense against the petition.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
3.  Attorney's fees.
Attorney's fees awarded in the nature of support may be made payable immediately or in installments.
[PL 2005, c. 323, §9 (AMD).]
4.  Enforcement.
The court may enforce an order as provided under chapter 65.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF). PL 2005, c. 323, §§7-9 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 29: DIVORCE › Subchapter 3: PARENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES › 19-A §1001. Parental rights and responsibilities

§1001. Parental rights and responsibilities
The court entering an order for divorce may make an order awarding parental rights and responsibilities with respect to a minor child of the parties in accordance with chapter 55.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 2: MARRIED PERSONS › Chapter 29: DIVORCE › Subchapter 4: CHANGE OF NAME › 19-A §1051. Name change

§1051. Name change
Upon the request of either spouse to change that person's own name, the court, when entering judgment for divorce:   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
1.  Former name.
Shall change the name of that spouse to a former name requested; or
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
2.  Any other name requested.
May change the name of that spouse to any other name requested.
[PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 3: PARENTS AND CHILDREN › Chapter 51: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §1502. Either parent dead or guilty of abandonment, rights devolve on other

§1502. Either parent dead or guilty of abandonment, rights devolve on other
If one of the parents of a minor child is dead or has abandoned the child, all parental rights respecting the child devolve upon the other parent.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 3: PARENTS AND CHILDREN › Chapter 51: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §1503. Rights of children born out of wedlock (REPEALED)

§1503. Rights of children born out of wedlock
(REPEALED)
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF). PL 2015, c. 296, Pt. C, §8 (RP). PL 2015, c. 296, Pt. D, §1 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 3: PARENTS AND CHILDREN › Chapter 51: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §1504. Person's duty of support

§1504. Person's duty of support
A person shall support that person's child and that person's spouse when in need.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 3: PARENTS AND CHILDREN › Chapter 51: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §1505. Extent of duties of support

§1505. Extent of duties of support
An obligor present or resident in this State has the duty of support as defined in this chapter regardless of the presence or residence of the obligee.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 3: PARENTS AND CHILDREN › Chapter 51: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §1506. Public assistance recipients' rights of privacy

§1506. Public assistance recipients' rights of privacy
When the department seeks to establish paternity of a dependent child, any inquiry about prior or current sexual activity of a recipient of public assistance must be limited to that necessary to resolve a genuine dispute about the parentage of a child. When a custodial mother has informed the department that a particular man is the father of her child, the department may make no further inquiry into her personal life unless the man so identified has denied that he is the father of that child or he refuses to cooperate.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 19-A: DOMESTIC RELATIONS › Part 3: PARENTS AND CHILDREN › Chapter 51: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 19-A §1508. Actions

§1508. Actions
An action under this Part may be commenced by civil summons without an order of service from the court. The Supreme Judicial Court shall prescribe by general rule the procedure for that civil action.   [PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. B, §2 (NEW); PL 1995, c. 694, Pt. E, §2 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1995, c. 694, §B2 (NEW). PL 1995, c. 694, §E2 (AFF).