At Barna, Guzy & Steffen, we have been serving clients since 1938. We are the largest Minnesota law firm north of downtown Minneapolis. Our experienced family law attorneys are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal services to individuals and families throughout Minnesota. We understand that family law matters are deeply personal and often complex, requiring both compassion and expertise. Our goal is to guide you through these challenging times with professionalism and care.
Our Family Law Practice Areas
We handle a wide range of family law cases, including but not limited to:
Divorce
Whether contested or uncontested, we assist clients in navigating the dissolution of marriage, ensuring that their rights and interests are protected throughout the process. Divorce involves several components, including property division, spousal maintenance, child custody, and financial matters. Our attorneys ensure a fair and equitable resolution for all involved parties.
Child Custody and Parenting Time
Determining custody arrangements and parenting time schedules that serve the best interests of the child while respecting the rights of both parents is a critical aspect of family law. Courts consider multiple factors, including the child’s relationship with each parent, their education and healthcare needs, and the ability of parents to cooperate effectively. Learn more about child custody.
Child Support
Our attorneys help determine appropriate child support obligations, taking into account Minnesota’s guidelines and the unique circumstances of each case. Child support covers essential expenses such as housing, food, medical care, and education. We also assist in enforcing and modifying child support agreements when necessary.
Spousal Maintenance (Alimony)
We advocate for fair spousal support arrangements, whether you are seeking maintenance or being asked to provide it. Courts consider factors such as the length of the marriage, financial resources, earning capacity, and the standard of living maintained during the marriage when determining alimony awards.
Property Division
Minnesota follows the principle of equitable distribution, meaning marital assets and debts are divided fairly, though not always equally. Our team ensures a thorough evaluation of marital property, including homes, retirement accounts, investments, and business interests, to secure a fair division. Learn more about property division.
Paternity
Establishing or disputing paternity is essential to protecting parental rights and ensuring a child’s well-being. We assist in legal proceedings to establish paternity and address related issues such as child support and custody. Learn more about paternity.
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
Our attorneys draft and review agreements to safeguard your assets and clarify expectations before or during marriage. These agreements help prevent disputes in the event of a divorce and provide financial security for both spouses. Learn more about prenuptial agreements.
Adoption
We guide families through the legal process of adoption, including stepparent and relative adoptions. Adoption involves legal requirements to terminate parental rights and ensure the child’s best interests are met.
Domestic Abuse and Harassment
Our firm provides representation in obtaining or defending against orders for protection and harassment restraining orders. We work with clients to ensure their safety and legal rights are upheld. Learn more about orders for protection and harassment restraining orders.
Grandparent Rights
We advocate for the visitation and custody rights of grandparents in appropriate circumstances. Minnesota law allows grandparents to petition for visitation when it serves the best interests of the child. Learn more about grandparent rights.
Legal Separation
For clients seeking an alternative to divorce, we handle legal separations that address all necessary legal issues, including property division, child custody, and support obligations. Learn more about legal separation.
Mediation and Early Neutral Evaluation
We offer alternative dispute resolution services to help parties reach amicable agreements outside of court. Mediation and early neutral evaluations can save time, reduce legal expenses, and provide a more collaborative approach to resolving disputes.
The Importance of Legal Representation in Family Law Matters
Family law issues often involve high-stakes decisions that impact your financial well-being, parental rights, and future stability. Having experienced legal counsel can make a significant difference in achieving a favorable outcome. Our attorneys provide strategic guidance, strong advocacy, and personalized attention to every case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law in Minnesota
Do I Need an Attorney for My Divorce?
Even in uncontested cases, legal representation is beneficial to ensure that all aspects of the divorce are properly handled. Without legal counsel, you may overlook important financial and legal matters that could affect your future.
What Is the Difference Between Legal Separation and Divorce?
A legal separation allows spouses to live separately while remaining legally married. It addresses issues such as property division, support obligations, and custody without formally dissolving the marriage. Some couples choose legal separation for religious or financial reasons.
How Is Child Custody Determined in Minnesota?
Minnesota courts consider multiple factors to determine child custody, including the child’s preference, the ability of each parent to provide a stable environment, and the history of each parent’s involvement in the child’s life. The best interests of the child are the primary concern in custody decisions.
Can Child Support Be Modified?
Yes, child support can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as job loss, a substantial increase in income, or changes in the child’s needs. Our attorneys can help petition the court for modifications to ensure fair support payments.
What Happens If a Parent Violates a Custody Agreement?
If a parent violates a custody agreement, legal action can be taken to enforce the court order. Depending on the severity of the violation, the court may modify the custody arrangement or impose penalties.
Is Mediation Required in Family Law Cases?
Minnesota courts often require mediation before proceeding to trial to encourage amicable resolutions. Mediation can help parties reach agreements on custody, support, and property division without the need for litigation.
Why Choose Barna, Guzy & Steffen?
- Experience: With decades of experience, our attorneys have successfully represented clients in a multitude of family law matters.
- Comprehensive Services: As a full-service law firm, we can address all aspects of your case, including related legal issues that may arise.
- Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize your needs and goals, providing personalized attention and tailored legal strategies.
- Reputation: Our firm is recognized for excellence in legal practice and has a longstanding history of serving clients throughout Minnesota.
Contact Us for Legal Assistance
If you are facing a family law issue in Minnesota, our attorneys are here to help. Contact us today at 763-783-5146 to schedule a consultation. Let us provide the legal support you need during this challenging time.