Maine § 3949. - Return of custody

Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 3949. — Return of custody, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 3949.. Return of custody

1.  Petition; best interests of Indian child.  Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, whenever a final decree of adoption of an Indian child has been vacated or set aside or the adoptive parents voluntarily consent to the termination of their parental rights to the Indian child, a biological parent or prior Indian custodian may petition for return of custody and the court shall grant the petition unless there is a showing, in a proceeding subject to the provisions of section 3945, that the return of custody is not in the best interests of the Indian child.

2.  Removal from foster care placement; procedure.  Whenever an Indian child is removed from a foster care home or institution for the purpose of further foster care placement or preadoptive or adoptive placement, the placement must be in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, except for a case in which an Indian child is being returned to the parent or Indian custodian from whose custody the Indian child was originally removed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 3949.

What does Maine Revised Statutes § 3949. cover?

Section 3949. ("Return of custody") is part of the Maine Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Maine. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Maine § 3949.?

A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 3949." (Maine). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Maine law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maine official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maine attorney.

How does Maine § 3949. apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maine can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maine.