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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

Establishing paternity is a crucial legal determination that affects a child’s rights, including inheritance, child support, and access to medical and other benefits. In Minnesota, under certain circumstances, a man is legally presumed to be the father of a child. This presumption of paternity is governed by state law and serves as a foundation for…