Disclaimer

This guide is intended only to provide general guidance on the issues addressed herein; it does not purport to provide, nor should be taken as providing legal advice.  This guide does not create or constitute an attorney-client relationship.  Moreover, the law in Maine and services to families are constantly changing and evolving.  Therefore, it should be noted that this information was accurate to the best knowledge of the writers at the time of printing.  In addition, all references to laws and monetary limits for public benefits programs are subject to change at any time.  It is always best to consult an attorney about your individual case.  Again, this manual is a general guide and not legal advice.

To get a referral for legal advice or to discuss the family issues related to your case, contact Families And Children Together at 1-866-298-0896 and ask for the Maine Kids-Kin program.

Acknowledgements

This guide was made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Children’s Bureau and the expertise, generosity, and persistence of the following people:  Mary Richardson and Lin Martin-Hunt of the Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project; Barbara Kates and Janelle Wuoristo of Families And Children Together; Sara Meerse of Kids Legal; and Kathleen Caldwell of Pine Tree Legal Assistance.  The following attorneys provided essential assistance along the way:  Courtney Beer, Maureen Barron Boston, William Childs, Brean Flynn, James E. Mitchell, Walter Morse, Allison Reed, Susan Rockefeller, and Caroline Wilshulen.  This guide was updated in January 2011 with the assistance of attorneys Amy Faircloth and Robert Bennett; and the work of Families And Children Together staff, Barbara Kates, Janelle Wuoristo, and Tracy Cooley; and volunteers Michelle Roberts and Lonya Julin.

© 2011 Families And Children Together and The Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project