Gambling addiction, or compulsive gambling, can have a profound impact on a marriage, leading to financial distress, emotional strain, and ultimately divorce. In Minnesota, where both tribal casinos and online gambling options are readily accessible, gambling addiction is a real issue that affects many families. When one spouse’s gambling spirals out of control, it can

Jason Brown
Jason Brown is a shareholder with Barna, Guzy & Steffen, where he specializes in divorce and family law. With decades of experience, he is ready to provide the answers you need. Call (763) 783-5146 to speak with Jason.
Parenting Consultants: Four Great Reasons to Hire a PC in Minnesota
When parents in Minnesota face disputes over custody, parenting time, or co-parenting challenges, the legal process can be expensive, slow, and frustrating. Traditional litigation is not always the best path for resolving family disputes, especially when children are involved. Fortunately, Minnesota parents have an alternative: hiring a Parenting Consultant (PC).
A Parenting Consultant is…
Does a Parent Have the Right to Income Withholding Through the Minnesota Child Support Office?
Child support is a critical financial resource for children of divorced or separated parents. It ensures that both parents contribute to their child’s well-being and helps cover essential expenses such as housing, education, healthcare, and daily necessities. In Minnesota, the Child Support Office plays a central role in enforcing child support orders, including income withholding.
Determining the Valuation Date as Part of a Minnesota Divorce
Dividing marital assets is a key component of any Minnesota divorce proceeding, and an essential part of that process is determining the valuation date. The valuation date plays a critical role in setting the value of marital property and can significantly impact the financial outcome of a divorce. While Minnesota law provides a general…
Stepparent Adoption in Minnesota: How to Proceed if the Biological Father Won’t Cooperate
Stepparent adoption is a meaningful step toward solidifying family bonds, offering legal security, and ensuring stability for a child. In Minnesota, a stepparent adoption cannot proceed unless the child’s other biological parent either voluntarily terminates their parental rights or has their rights involuntarily terminated by the court. This process can become complicated when the biological…
Behaviors Leading to Conduct-Based Attorney Fees in a Minnesota Divorce
Divorce can be a contentious and costly process, especially when one party engages in behavior that unnecessarily increases litigation expenses. In Minnesota, courts have the authority to award attorney’s fees based on a party’s conduct during the proceedings. These conduct-based fee awards are governed by Minnesota Statute 518.14, which allows a judge to order…
Will the Minnesota Supreme Court Accept Review of My Divorce Appeal?
Appealing a divorce case to the Minnesota Supreme Court is a challenging process, as the Court grants review in only a small percentage of cases. Unlike the Minnesota Court of Appeals, which must hear most appeals, the Supreme Court exercises discretionary review, meaning it selects the cases it deems most significant. If you are considering…
Can Minnesota Divorce Courts Require Me to Sit for a Vocational Evaluation?
Divorce proceedings often involve financial considerations, including spousal maintenance and child support. In cases where one spouse is unemployed or underemployed, Minnesota courts may consider a vocational evaluation to assess their earning capacity. This raises the question: Can a Minnesota divorce court require a party to participate in a vocational evaluation? The answer lies…
The Ten Best Ways to Prepare to Meet with a Minnesota Divorce Mediator
Divorce mediation is a valuable process that allows couples to resolve their divorce issues outside of court in a more amicable and cost-effective manner. In Minnesota, mediation is often required before proceeding to litigation, making preparation key to a successful outcome. If you are getting ready to meet with a divorce mediator, taking proactive steps…
Valuation and Division of Stock Options and RSUs in a Minnesota Divorce
Dividing assets in a Minnesota divorce can be complex, particularly when dealing with stock options and restricted stock units (RSUs). Unlike traditional assets such as real estate and retirement accounts, stock options and RSUs present unique challenges in valuation and division. This article will explore the legal considerations, valuation methods, and equitable division of these…