Bill > LD1618

This bill establishes a 12-member Study Group to Research the Feasibility of Establishing a Dedicated Family Court in Maine, with members appointed by the Senate President, House Speaker, and representing various stakeholders including legislators, judicial branch representatives, child welfare advocates, guardians ad litem, domestic violence prevention organizations, and individuals with personal family law court experience. The study group's comprehensive mandate is to evaluate the potential benefits and challenges of creating a dedicated family court system by examining current family law case volumes, average case resolution times, potential improvements in court efficiency, best practices from other states, required resources, and the frequency of individual cases being heard by multiple judges. By December 3, 2025, the study group must submit a detailed report with findings and recommendations, including proposed legislation, to the Second Regular Session of the 132nd Legislature. The Legislative Council will provide necessary staffing support for the study group, except during legislative sessions, and the bill includes an emergency clause allowing it to take effect immediately upon approval.

Justice

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1618&snum=132