Financial

Property Division Laws in Maine

Learn how marital assets are divided in Maine — community property or equitable distribution. Maine follows equitable distribution.

Property Type

Equitable

Filing Fee

$120

Median Cost

$8,000–$32,000

Annual Divorces

5,000+

Understanding Property Division in Maine

Maine is an equitable distribution state. Courts divide marital property in a manner they consider fair, which may not be equal. Factors include length of marriage, each spouse's earning capacity, and contributions to the marital estate.

The median cost of an uncontested divorce in Maine is approximately $8,000. Contested divorces involving significant financial disputes average $32,000. These figures include attorney fees, filing fees ($120), and related costs.

Under Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 19-A §902, Maine courts consider the standard of living established during the marriage, each spouse’s income and earning potential, the duration of the marriage, and each party’s contributions — including homemaking and child-rearing.

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Common Questions

How long do you have to live in Maine to file for divorce?
Maine requires 6 months of residency before you can file for divorce. Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 19-A §902 governs the filing requirements.
Is Maine a community property or equitable distribution state?
Maine follows equitable distribution rules, meaning the court divides marital assets fairly but not necessarily equally.
How much does a divorce cost in Maine?
Filing fees in Maine range from $120. The median total cost is approximately $8,000 for uncontested divorces and $32,000 for contested cases.
How long does a divorce take in Maine?
Maine has a mandatory waiting period of 60 days. Uncontested divorces typically finalize in 2–4 months, while contested cases can take 12–18 months or longer.
How is child support calculated in Maine?
Maine uses the Income Shares model, based on both parents' combined income. The formula considers both parents' incomes, number of children, health insurance costs, and childcare expenses.

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Related Resources

This page provides general information about property division in Maine and is not legal advice. Verify current statutes with Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 19-A §902 or consult a licensed Maine attorney. Last reviewed March 2026.