Is mediation required before my eviction hearing in Maine?

Many Maine District Courts refer eviction cases to mediation at the first hearing, but not all disputes require it. Participation is strongly encouraged if offered.

Do renters need a lawyer for mediation in Maine?

No, renters do not need a lawyer to participate in mediation, but they can bring one if they wish.

Is what I say in mediation kept private?

Yes, what is discussed in mediation is confidential unless both parties agree otherwise.

Does mediation cost money for Maine renters?

Most court-connected mediation services are free for renters involved in housing or eviction cases.

Mediation for Maine Renters: A Guide to Resolving Landlord Disputes

Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Maine published June 21, 2025

If you’re a renter in Maine facing a conflict with your landlord—whether it’s about rent, eviction notices, or apartment repairs—mediation can often help you reach a fair solution without going to court. Maine offers accessible mediation services for landlord-tenant issues, focusing on communication and mutually agreed outcomes under the Maine Revised Statutes – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1]

Understanding Mediation for Maine Renters

Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process where a neutral third party (the mediator) helps renters and landlords communicate and try to resolve disputes. In Maine, most residential rental disagreements—like security deposit returns, repairs, lease terms, or payment issues—can be addressed by mediation.

Voluntary Process: Both renter and landlord must agree to participate.
Confidential Setting: What is discussed in mediation stays private (unless both parties agree otherwise).
No Cost in Many Cases: Mediation is often free when connected to eviction proceedings or through court-supported programs.
Not Binding Unless Agreed: Results are binding only if both sides sign an agreement.

Who Handles Mediation in Maine?

The Maine Judicial Branch Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Program oversees mediation services for housing-related conflicts, especially those tied to eviction cases in District Court.^[2]

Mediators are trained neutrals and have experience with rental housing disputes. Any rental case that reaches the court—such as an eviction (also called a "Forcible Entry and Detainer")—will likely be sent to mediation before a trial hearing.

Key Steps: How Mediation Works for Renters in Maine

Here’s a simple look at how you, as a renter, can use mediation to address a dispute:

Identify the Problem: Clearly define the issue (e.g., not receiving your security deposit back, or a dispute over repairs).
Request Mediation: You may request mediation directly or through the court if an eviction case is filed. The court often assigns a mediator at the first court appearance.
Prepare Your Documents: Bring copies of your lease, photos, correspondence, and any receipts or notices.
Attend the Mediation Session: In-person or virtual sessions are usually available. Each side discusses the issue with help from the mediator.
Agreement or Next Steps: If you and your landlord reach an agreement, it can be put in writing and submitted to the court, if applicable.
If No Agreement: You may continue to court, but what was said in mediation is usually not shared unless agreed by both parties.

If your issue involves court, you may be asked to fill out a mediation request or participate on the day of your hearing.

Important Forms for Renters Using Mediation

UD-101 – Forcible Entry and Detainer (Eviction) Complaint
When & How Used: This form is typically filed by a landlord to begin an eviction, but as a renter, you may receive this and then participate in mediation at your first court appearance. You can learn more at the Maine Courts Housing Forms page.
Mediation Agreement Form (no standard number)
When & How Used: If mediation ends in a settlement, this agreement is signed by both parties and filed with the court if the case began there. Details at the Maine Judicial Branch ADR Program.

Tip: If you are summoned to an eviction hearing, be sure to attend—mediation is most often held on the same day and can prevent a formal eviction record.

Benefits of Mediation over Court Hearings

Quicker resolution, often same day or within a week
Less formal and stressful than a court trial
Gives both sides more say in the outcome
Can preserve the renter-landlord relationship

Choosing mediation does not limit your legal rights—it simply offers a chance to resolve disputes collaboratively under Maine law.

What Happens If Mediation Fails?

If you don’t reach an agreement, your case will go back to court for a judge to decide. Keeping your paperwork and communicating respectfully during mediation can still help your case later.

Mediation is voluntary, private, and designed to empower both landlords and renters. If you’re unsure, consult with the Maine Judicial Branch or legal aid services before proceeding.

FAQ: Maine Renters & Landlord-Tenant Mediation

Is mediation required before my eviction hearing?
Many District Courts in Maine refer eviction cases to mediation at the first hearing. While not every dispute requires mediation, it is strongly encouraged if offered.
Do I need a lawyer in mediation?
No, but you can have one if you choose. The process is designed for people to speak for themselves.
What if my landlord or I do not agree to mediate?
Mediation is voluntary; if one side declines, the case simply moves forward in court.
Is what I say in mediation confidential?
Yes. The mediator and both parties must keep it private unless everyone agrees otherwise.
Does mediation cost money for renters?
Most court-connected mediation services in Maine are free to renters involved in eviction or housing cases.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Maine Renters

Mediation offers renters a free or low-cost way to resolve landlord disputes in Maine.
It is voluntary, private, and often leads to faster, less formal agreements than court.
You keep all your legal rights—mediation is simply an early opportunity to resolve conflict without a trial.

Mediation gives you a chance to be heard, work out solutions, and avoid unnecessary court records.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Maine Judicial Branch Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Program – Learn about mediation, get information on services, or find court mediation contacts.
Maine District Court – See where eviction and landlord-tenant matters are handled.
Maine Civil Legal Services Fund Commission – Find legal aid help for renters who qualify.
Maine Revised Statutes – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Read the full landlord-tenant law.