Child Custody and Parenting Time in Minnesota

Life changing events provoke the need for child custody and parenting time decisions. For many parents, this realization comes at the beginning of the divorce. Parents are faced with the realization that time previously enjoyed with their children requires detailed scheduled planning.  For others, it starts when a parent seeks recognition of parentage to establish custody and parenting time.  In these times, Minnesota parents are not only adjusting to the idea of legal custody, physical custody, and parenting time—they’re dealing with separation, loss, fear, uncertainty, and concern for their children’s stability and happiness.

Minnesota laws incorporates a standard called the Best Interests of the Child” in determining custody and parenting time. The Best Interest of the Child Factors include twelve (12) topics focused on safety, stability, routine, and each parent’s involvement with the minor child(ren). Proving the Best Interest of the Child can be a source of significant stress with parents often throwing each other under the proverbial bus, pinning them against each other at times.

A thoughtful approach that balances amicable problem-solving while asserting rights can help reduce conflict, bring structure to the process, and give children a sense of security before, during or after trial. With the right guidance - even in high-conflict matters, families can create custody and parenting time arrangements that maintain boundaries between parents while honoring both parents’ roles while keeping the child’s well-being at the center.

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