Protection from Abuse in Maine: First Steps & Frequently Asked Questions

This article explains the first steps in the process of getting a Protection from Abuse Order (often called a 'PFA') in the state of Maine. It also lists many resources where survivors can get help and answers many of the most common questions people have about this process.   You are not alone – you can reach out for help, support, or just more information. There are organizations and advocates ready to support you!

What is happening with immigration enforcement and Maine schools? Update from KIDSLegal

Many parents and guardians are feeling scared by recent news about changes to the laws about immigration officials in schools and you may have concerns about sending your children to school. This message is to help you have accurate information about your student's rights to an education and about what schools can and cannot do. Something that has not changed is that your child’s school district has a legal obligation to provide them with a free and appropriate public education, no matter their immigration status (or yours), and KIDSLegal is here to answer any questions about you and your student’s rights in school. 

Guía para padres de Maine ¿Cómo puedo proteger a mis hijos si no puedo ocuparme de su cuidado?

Esta guía es para los padres del estado de Maine que necesitan que otra persona cuide de sus hijos cuando ellos no pueden hacerlo. Es posible que necesite a alguien que cuide de sus hijos en caso de que no pueda ocuparse de ellos porque necesita salir del país, tiene problemas médicos o enfrenta una sentencia de prisión.

Form Letter: Debt Validation

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If a debt collector has just begun contacting you, within the first 30 days you have the right to request “validation” of the debt.  While the debt collector is responding to your request, they cannot try to collect from you.  If the creditor follows the law by responding, you will have valuable information that could help you dispute your obligation to pay on the debt.

 

ICWA Under Attack

The Supreme Court heard a major case in November 2022 that may have ramifications for all of Indian Country. Haaland v. Brackeen, or simply Brackeen, is a case brought by an adoptive couple, the Brackeens, with support from several states and other petitioners that aims to dismantle the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) and potentially more of Federal Indian law.

Welcome to Pine Tree Legal Assistance’s New Executive Director, Tom Fritzsche

Pine Tree is happy to announce that we welcomed a new Executive Director, Tom Fritzsche, back in September! Tom was born and raised in Maine and is a graduate of Kennebunk High School, Amherst College, and the NYU School of Law. Tom has had a lifelong commitment to working toward the advancement of Pine Tree's vision that there should be fairness, justice, and equality for all.

Can the electric company charge me for someone else's debt?

Is the electric company trying to charge you for a previous resident’s utility debt? Sometimes when a previous resident owes money to a utility company, the company will contact the current resident to collect. They may threaten to shut off the electricity until the debt has been paid.  If you live in Maine and this is your situation, you are not alone – read below about what to expect and how to get help if you need it.
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