Divorce

 

Divorce in Southern Maine

Guiding You Through One of Life’s Hardest Transitions

Divorce is rarely easy — but it doesn’t have to be a war. At Dirigo Divorce, Jason M. Rice helps individuals and families in Southern Maine navigate the divorce process with clarity, compassion, and a focus on practical outcomes. Whether your situation is straightforward or complicated, the goal is always the same: get you through this with your finances, your family relationships, and your future intact.

Uncontested Divorce

If you and your spouse are in general agreement about how to divide your assets, handle debt, and — if you have children — work out custody and support, an uncontested divorce is the fastest and most affordable path forward.

With an uncontested divorce you can:

  • Avoid lengthy and expensive court battles
  • Finalize your divorce much more quickly
  • Maintain control over the outcome
  • Reduce conflict and stress for your entire family

Jason M. Rice will make sure your agreement is legally sound, covers everything it needs to, and is filed correctly with the court — so there are no surprises down the road.

Contested Divorce

When spouses can’t reach agreement on their own, a contested divorce may be necessary. Contested divorces typically involve disputes over:

  • Division of marital property and assets
  • Division of marital debt
  • Primary residency of children
  • Parental rights and responsibilities
  • Child support
  • Spousal support (alimony)

Even in contested cases,  attorney Jason M. Rice works to find practical solutions and negotiate fair outcomes before turning to the court. Litigation is always a last resort — not a first move.

What Maine Courts Consider in a Divorce

Maine is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly — but not necessarily equally. Courts look at a range of factors including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial situation, contributions to the marriage, and more.

When children are involved, Maine courts make decisions based on the best interests of the child — considering factors like each parent’s relationship with the child, stability, and ability to meet the child’s needs.

Understanding how Maine law applies to your specific situation is one of the most important things you can do early in the process. 

The Divorce Process in Maine

  1. Filing the Complaint — One spouse files a Complaint for Divorce with the court. Maine has a 60-day waiting period before a divorce can be finalized.
  2. Service — The other spouse is formally notified of the filing.
  3. Negotiation or Mediation — Most divorces are resolved through negotiation or mediation rather than trial.
  4. Final Agreement or Hearing — If you reach an agreement, it’s submitted to the court. If not, a judge holds a hearing and makes the final decisions.
  5. Divorce Decree — The court issues a final divorce decree, making everything official.

Serving Central and Southern Maine

Dirigo Divorce serves individuals and families throughout Central and Southern Maine, including Androscoggin County, Cumberland County, York County and surrounding communities —Auburn, Lewiston, Portland, Biddeford, Saco, Sanford, the Berwicks, Kittery, York, and beyond.

Let’s Talk About Your Situation

Every divorce is different. The best thing you can do right now is get a clear picture of where you stand and what your options are. Contact Dirigo Divorce today to schedule a consultation.

Call us or request an appointment using the “Request Appointment” button.