ME LD458

Replaces the term "advocate" with "domestic violence advocate" throughout Maine law governing privileged communications for victims of domestic or family violence

Increases required training for domestic violence advocates from 30 hours to 40 hours, with mandated curriculum covering confidentiality laws, mandated reporting, civil and criminal legal processes, advocacy skills, and local resources

Defines "domestic violence services provider" as a private, nonprofit, or tribal organization primarily providing crisis intervention, safety planning, legal information, and educational information to domestic violence victims

Maintains privilege protections allowing victims to refuse disclosure of confidential communications with domestic violence advocates in court proceedings and to other agencies

Updates cross-references in multiple statutes (Titles 14, 16, and 17-A) to align with the new "domestic violence advocate" definition