Navigating the complexities of child custody and parenting time in Minnesota becomes particularly challenging when one spouse struggles with alcoholism. The primary concern in such cases is ensuring the child’s safety and well-being. Minnesota courts prioritize the child’s best interests, and a parent’s substance abuse can significantly influence custody determinations. Alcohol-related issues can drive the
I Live in Hennepin County. Can I Hire a Divorce Lawyer in Anoka County?
If you’re considering divorce and live in Hennepin County, you might be wondering whether you need to hire a lawyer located in your county. The simple answer is no—your divorce lawyer does not have to be based in the county where your case is filed. In fact, hiring an attorney from a neighboring county
Five Essentials to Address in a Minnesota Cohabitation Agreement
As more couples choose to live together without getting married, a cohabitation agreement has become an essential legal tool to define financial and personal expectations. In Minnesota, where common-law marriage is not recognized, unmarried partners do not have the same legal protections as married couples when it comes to property division, financial responsibilities, or support
Practical Considerations if You Seek Third-Party Custody in Minnesota
Child custody matters are often emotionally charged and legally complex, especially when someone other than a biological parent seeks custody. In Minnesota third-party custody refers to situations where a non-parent—such as a grandparent, relative, or close family friend—seeks legal custody of a child.
If you are considering pursuing third-party custody in Minnesota, it is essential
Seven Issues Unique to High Net Worth Divorce in Minnesota
Divorce is often a challenging and emotional process, but for high-net-worth individuals, it presents unique complexities that require careful legal and financial planning. Minnesota law provides a framework for divorce proceedings, but when significant assets are involved, the stakes are higher, and the legal landscape becomes more intricate. Here are seven issues unique to high-net-worth
The Brief Focused Assessment Trend in Minnesota: BFA v. Custody Evaluation
Minnesota family courts are seeing an increasing trend in the use of Brief Focused Assessments (BFA) to assist in custody and parenting time disputes. As families navigate complex custody issues, courts and attorneys are seeking alternatives to traditional custody evaluations that are more efficient, cost-effective, and tailored to specific concerns. This article explores what a
Do Minnesota Courts Have Jurisdiction Over My Divorce?
When filing for divorce in Minnesota, one of the most critical legal questions is whether the courts have jurisdiction over your case. Jurisdiction determines a court’s power to hear and decide a case. Without proper jurisdiction, any orders issued—including those related to property division, spousal maintenance, child custody, and child support—may be invalid.
Jurisdiction
How Postnuptial Agreements Differ From Prenuptial Agreements in Minnesota
When couples in Minnesota consider the financial and legal implications of marriage, they often come across two important legal tools: prenuptial agreements (prenups) and postnuptial agreements (postnups). While both serve to clarify financial rights and responsibilities, they differ in key ways regarding timing, enforceability, and legal requirements. Understanding these differences is crucial for couples looking
Served with a Divorce Summons in Minnesota? Here’s What You Can’t Do
Divorce is an emotional and often complicated process. If you have been served with a divorce summons in Minnesota, it is essential to understand your legal responsibilities and limitations from the moment you receive it. Under Minnesota Statute Section 518.091, certain temporary restraining provisions automatically take effect upon service of the summons. Violating these
How Does an Order For Protection (OFP) Impact an Award of Physical or Legal Custody in Minnesota?
An Order for Protection (OFP) is a legal tool designed to protect victims of domestic abuse by restricting an alleged abuser’s contact with the petitioner. While OFPs serve an important role in ensuring safety, they can have significant implications for child custody determinations in Minnesota. If you are facing an OFP or considering filing for