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In a landmark decision, the Maine Supreme Judicial Court has ruled in favor of expanding the rights of unmarried partners in custody and visitation cases. The ruling, which was handed down on November 5, 2025, represents a major shift in the state's family law policies and has been hailed as a victory for non-traditional families.The case in question involved a same-sex couple who had been together for over a decade and had raised a child together. When the couple split up, one of the partners sought custody of the child, but was denied any rights by the lower court on the grounds that they were not legally married. The Supreme Judicial Court's ruling overturned this decision, stating that unmarried partners should have the same rights as married couples when it comes to custody and visitation.This decision is a significant win for the LGBTQ+ community in Maine, as well as for all unmarried couples who may find themselves in similar situations. It is a reflection of the changing attitudes towards family structures and relationships, and the recognition that love and commitment should not be limited by legal definitions.In addition to the custody ruling, the court also made changes to the state's child support guidelines, updating them to better reflect the financial needs of modern families. The new guidelines take into account factors such as shared parenting time, childcare expenses, and the incomes of both parents, in order to more accurately determine a fair and equitable support arrangement.Overall, these changes represent a step forward for family law in Maine, and a recognition of the diverse and evolving nature of family relationships in today's society. As the legal landscape continues to evolve, it is clear that the rights and protections of all families will be taken into account.