Maine § 480. - Signature of nonowner
Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 480. — Signature of nonowner, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 480.. Signature of nonowner
An owner of real estate may convey that real estate, or any interest in it free from any claim to the real estate by his nonowner spouse, by deed, mortgage or any other instrument, without signature of his nonowner spouse, unless: [PL 1983, c. 748, §2 (NEW).]
1. Non-bona fide purchaser. The transfer requires signature pursuant to Title 18‑C, section 2‑208, subsection 1; or
2. Divorce action. The nonowner spouse has filed a claim in the registry of deeds pursuant to Title 19‑A, section 953, and either the divorce action is still pending or the nonowner spouse has been granted an interest in the real estate by the court.
After that conveyance, any claim of the nonowner spouse under probate, divorce or any other laws, shall be against the proceeds of that conveyance and not against the real estate. Notwithstanding any provision of the Maine Probate Code, a mortgage deed does not need to be signed by a nonowner spouse, provided that the mortgage deed secures actual consideration in money or money's worth given in good faith by the mortgagee to the owner. Notwithstanding any provision of the Maine Probate Code or divorce laws, a correcting deed does not need to be signed by a nonowner spouse. [PL 1983, c. 748, §2 (NEW).]
Source: official Maine text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 480.
What does Maine Revised Statutes § 480. cover?
Section 480. ("Signature of nonowner") 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 § 480.?
A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 480." (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 § 480. 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.