Experienced Divorce Lawyers in Coon Rapids, MN

Divorce is never easy, but with the right legal guidance, you can navigate the process with clarity and confidence. At Barna, Guzy & Steffen, we help individuals in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, work through the legal, financial, and emotional aspects of marital dissolution. Whether your divorce is amicable or contentious, our experienced family law attorneys are here to protect your rights and advocate for your best interests. Call (763) 783-5146 today to schedule a consultation.

Divorce in Minnesota

In Minnesota, marriage is a legal contract that can only be dissolved through the legal process of marital dissolution. Unlike typical lawsuits, there is no plaintiff or defendant in a divorce case. Instead, the spouse who initiates the process is called the “petitioner,” while the other spouse is the “respondent.”

Minnesota has been a “no-fault” divorce state since 1974. This means that a divorce is granted when there is an “irretrievable breakdown” of the marriage. The court does not require both parties to agree that the marriage is over. If one spouse asserts that the relationship is broken and reconciliation is not possible, the divorce will proceed. Residency Requirement: In most cases, at least one spouse must have lived separately for 180 days before the court finalizes the divorce.

Key Issues in a Coon Rapids Divorce Case

Every divorce in Minnesota involves resolving four primary legal matters:

Child Custody and Parenting Time

For divorcing parents, determining custody and parenting time is a top priority. Minnesota law recognizes two types of custody: Legal Custody – The right to make major life decisions about the child’s education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Physical Custody – Determines where the child primarily resides. Parenting time schedules vary based on the needs of the children and the parents. Courts strive to create arrangements that foster meaningful relationships with both parents while prioritizing the child’s best interests. Mediation and parenting plans can help families reach agreements without needing court intervention.

Child Support

Child support ensures that both parents contribute financially to their children’s well-being. The amount of child support is determined by Minnesota’s guidelines, considering each parent’s income, number of children, parenting time schedule, healthcare costs, and childcare expenses. Even in shared custody, one parent may still be required to pay child support if there is an income disparity between the parents.

Division of Marital Property

Minnesota law requires equitable division of marital property, meaning assets are divided fairly (not necessarily equally). Marital property includes real estate, bank accounts, investments, retirement accounts, vehicles, personal property, business interests, and professional assets. Certain assets may be classified as “non-marital property” and remain with the original owner, including property acquired before marriage, inheritances, gifts, and assets excluded by a valid prenuptial agreement. For high-value or complex assets, valuation experts (real estate appraisers, financial analysts, etc.) may be used to determine the fair market value before division.

Spousal Maintenance (Alimony)

Spousal maintenance, commonly known as alimony, is awarded in some divorces to ensure that both spouses can maintain a reasonable standard of living post-divorce. The court considers factors such as the length of the marriage, financial resources and earning capacity of each spouse, standard of living established during the marriage, and contributions to the marriage, including homemaking and career support. Alimony can be temporary, rehabilitative, or permanent, depending on the circumstances of the case. Courts aim to provide financial fairness while encouraging self-sufficiency when possible.

The Divorce Process in Coon Rapids

The divorce process varies depending on how well both spouses can agree on key issues.

Uncontested Divorce

If both spouses agree on all major issues, they can file a joint petition for divorce, speeding up the process and reducing legal costs.

Contested Divorce

If disputes exist regarding child custody, property, or finances, the case may require mediation, early neutral evaluation, or a court trial if no agreement can be reached.

At Barna, Guzy & Steffen, we strive to resolve divorces efficiently while avoiding unnecessary litigation. However, if court intervention is necessary, we are fully prepared to fight for your interests.

Other Resources in Coon Rapids

Because Coon Rapids is a large city, there are many resources within the community to assist family court litigants:

Why Work with Barna, Guzy & Steffen?

Our team understands that divorce is a life-changing event, and we provide personalized legal support tailored to your unique situation. Clients in Coon Rapids turn to us because we have decades of family law experience, are skilled negotiators who help resolve disputes outside of court, are aggressive litigators when necessary, and prioritize clear communication so you always know where your case stands.

Call (763) 783-5146 today to discuss your case with an experienced Coon Rapids divorce lawyer.

Take the Next Step: Contact Us Today

Divorce is difficult, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Barna, Guzy & Steffen, we are here to guide you, protect your rights, and achieve the best possible outcome for your future. Serving Coon Rapids, Anoka County, and the surrounding areas. Call (763) 783-5146 today to schedule your confidential consultation. Let us help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind