Life changing events provoke the need for child custody and parenting time decisions. For many parents, this realization comes at the beginning of the divorce. Parents are faced with the realization that time previously enjoyed with their children requires detailed scheduled planning. For others, it starts when a parent seeks recognition of parentage to establish custody and parenting time. In these times, Minnesota parents are not only adjusting to the idea of legal custody, physical custody, and parenting time—they’re dealing with separation, loss, fear, uncertainty, and concern for their children’s stability and happiness.
Minnesota laws incorporates a standard called the “Best Interests of the Child” in determining custody and parenting time. The Best Interest of the Child Factors include twelve (12) topics. These topics focus on safety, stability, routine, and each parent’s involvement with the minor children. Proving the Best Interest of the Child can cause significant stress. Parents often throw each other under the proverbial bus. This action can pin them against each other at times.
A thoughtful approach that balances amicable problem-solving with asserting rights can help reduce conflict. It brings structure to the process. This approach gives children a sense of security before, during, or after trial. With the right guidance, families can create custody and parenting time arrangements even in high-conflict matters. These arrangements maintain boundaries between parents. They also honor both parents’ roles while keeping the child’s well-being at the center.