New York, NY asked in Family Law and Civil Rights for Maine

Q: If I request for a lawyer in family court in Maine, can a judge tell me " You're not getting one"?

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1 Lawyer Answer
Joe Lewis
Joe Lewis
Answered
  • Portland, ME
  • Licensed in Maine

A: Hi there.

If it is truly a family court case (district court, FM docket number, title 19-A) then the judge is telling you a truth, however rudely he or she said it. There is no provision under Maine law for a party to get a free or court-appointed lawyer.

If you are needing help with your family law case and cannot afford an attorney, you should try contacting the Volunteer Lawyers Project, Pine Tree Legal Assistance, or the Cumberland Legal Aid Clinic. Each of these organizations provide such services, but bear in mind that each is overwhelmed with demand and might not easily be able to add you to their client list.

Best of luck to you.

- Joe

1 user found this answer helpful

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