We know that engaging with legal proceedings against someone who has caused harm can be extremely stressful and overwhelming. Caring Unlimited’s trained advocates can provide support and information in the midst of this process.

To learn more about our Legal Services Program, talk through legal options, or potentially be connected with a Court Advocate, call our 24-hour Helpline at 1-800-239-7298.

Caring Unlimited can assist with the following civil legal matters:

• Protection From Abuse (PFA)

  • Learn more about how to obtain a PFA and how Caring Unlimited can help.

• Divorce

• Judicial Separation

• Custody (Parental Rights and Responsibilities)

The Legal Services Program offers free legal assistance to survivors on a case-by-case basis. Advocates are unable to offer legal advice. Caring Unlimited’s attorneys have limited capacity, and are unable to help with all cases.

Caring Unlimited’s Court Advocates may be able to help in the following ways:

• Providing information about legal protections for survivors of domestic violence

• Explaining the process of obtaining legal protection from abuse

• Offering support to survivors navigating the legal system

• Accompanying survivors at PFA hearings

• In some cases, referring to pro bono attorneys for advice or representation

• The legal team will provide services in the survivor’s primary language. We are able to assist clients of all languages through the use of phone and in-person interpreters.

* Court Advocates are not immediately available 24 Hours a day. Advocates answering the 24 Hour Helpline will listen to you, support you, and can provide an overview of certain legal processes and may be able to offer a referral to a Court Advocate. Helpline Advocates and Court Advocates are unable to provide any legal advice, and access to staff attorneys is not guaranteed.

Additional Resources:

• Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, & Abuse | Pine Tree Legal Assistance

• State of Maine Judicial Branch - Access PFA and PFH forms for electronic filing through email

• Divorce, Custody, & Family | Pine Tree Legal Assistance

• For those seeking legal assistance | Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project - Can assist with divorce, parental rights or child support cases. Can NOT assist with CPS/DHHS or Protection Order cases.

• Free legal help for older Mainers | Legal Services for Maine Elders

• Contact Us - SARSSM (Sexual Assault Response Services of Southern Maine)

• Legal Education Workshops and In-Person Forms Assistance

• ILAP Maine (Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project)

This webpage is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Receipt or use of this information does not create an attorney-client relationship. Each case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts. If you need legal advice, you should consult with a qualified attorney.