Dana A. Cleaves Associates – Portland, ME

Welcome to Dana A. Cleaves Associates in Portland, Maine

Dana A. Cleaves Associates is a specialized family law mediation and private adjudication practice located in Portland, Maine. Founder Dana A. Cleaves brings a unique and authoritative perspective to legal disputes, having served as a Maine Family Court Judge for 15 years, including a tenure as Chief Judge of the Maine Administrative Court. 🏛️ Since entering private practice in 1993, he has dedicated his career to helping families navigate the difficult transition of divorce and separation outside of the traditional, adversarial court system. The firm is built on the belief that legal resolution should be dignified, efficient, and, whenever possible, amicable.

Amicable Divorce Mediation

Divorce does not have to be a war. We specialize in directive mediation, a process designed for couples who wish to resolve their issues cooperatively but need experienced guidance. 🤝 Former Judge Cleaves uses his decades of decision-making experience to help parties identify key issues, gather necessary information, and reach fair agreements. This approach allows families to retain control over the outcome of their lives, saving them the emotional and financial costs associated with prolonged litigation.

Private Adjudication

For cases where agreement cannot be reached on every issue, we offer private adjudication services. Acting as a Referee under Rule 53 of the Maine Rules of Civil Procedure, Judge Cleaves provides a private, efficient alternative to the public court system. ⚖️ This service allows parties to have their case heard and decided by a seasoned jurist without the delays and procedural hurdles of the courthouse. It is an ideal solution for complex family matters requiring privacy and specialized legal knowledge.

Child-Centered Solutions

The well-being of children is often the most critical concern in family law disputes. Our firm places a high priority on establishing healthy co-parenting relationships. We assist parents in creating comprehensive parenting plans that protect the emotional health of their children. 🧸 Dana Cleaves is a founding member of the Kids First Center and has a long history of advocating for the best interests of children in the legal process.

Experienced Legal Guidance

With over 40 years of experience in the Maine legal system, Dana A. Cleaves offers a level of insight that few practitioners can match. Whether acting as a mediator or a private judge, he provides clear, neutral, and practical assessments of legal positions. This helps clients manage their expectations and focus on constructive solutions rather than conflict.

Contact Us

Located on Pearl Street in downtown Portland, Dana A. Cleaves Associates represents a commitment to integrity and peace of mind in family law. If you are seeking a better way to resolve your family legal matters, contact us to discuss how our mediation and adjudication services can assist you.