19-A M.R.S. §3311: Definitions

As used in this subchapter, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms have the following meanings.

1. Application. "Application" means a request under the Convention by an obligee or obligor, or on behalf of a child, made through a central authority for assistance from another central authority.

2. Central authority. "Central authority" means the entity designated by the United States or a foreign country described in section 2802, subsection 3‑A to perform the functions specified in the Convention.

3. Convention support order. "Convention support order" means a support order of a tribunal of a foreign country described in section 2802, subsection 3‑A.

4. Direct request. "Direct request" means a petition filed by an individual in a tribunal of this State in a proceeding involving an obligee, obligor or child residing outside the United States.

4-A. Foreign central authority. "Foreign central authority" means the entity designated by a foreign country as defined in section 2802, subsection 3‑A to perform the functions specified in the Convention.

5. Foreign support agreement. "Foreign support agreement" means an agreement for support in a record that:

A. Is enforceable as a support order in the country of origin;

B. Has been formally drawn up or registered as an authentic instrument by a foreign tribunal or authenticated by or concluded, registered or filed with a foreign tribunal; and

C. May be reviewed and modified by a foreign tribunal.

"Foreign support agreement" includes a maintenance arrangement or authentic instrument under the Convention.

6. United States central authority. "United States central authority" means the Secretary of the United States Department of Health and Human Services.