Child Custody And Visitation Solutions
You never stop being a parent. While your family may change, you still want to be there for your kids. Coming up with the right child custody and visitation plan is the first step.
At the Minneapolis law offices of Burns & Hansen, P.A., our lawyers protect the rights of individuals involved in child custody and visitation settlements in the Twin Cities area. Whether you are going through a divorce or you are unmarried, we can help you come up with a plan tailored to the needs of your family.
How Does Child Custody And Visitation Work?
Child custody and visitation refer broadly to the rights that parents have with their children. Child custody refers to the legal rights and responsibilities a parent has towards their child. There are two categories of child custody in Minnesota:
- Physical custody: The right of a parent to have the child live with them and to make decisions about the child’s everyday activities.
- Legal custody: The right of a parent to make decisions regarding the child’s education, health care, religious upbringing and more.
Visitation, also known as parenting time, pertains to the time a non-custodial parent spends with their child. If you are facing a custody dispute, we can guide you through the process. We explain your options, protect your rights and always put your children at the forefront.
How Can I Obtain Custody Of My Child?
The journey towards arriving at a custody and visitation arrangement for your child is not always easy. For many parents, it is an emotional and painful process filled with complex legal issues. Broadly, the steps of getting custody and/or visitation are:
- Research Minnesota child custody: Learn about the different forms of custody and parenting time. This knowledge helps you decide what to request.
- Evaluate your situation: Consider how each option would work for you and which is best for your child. Assess your current living arrangements, stability and ability to care for your child. This self-reflection is crucial for presenting your case.
- File a custody petition: Submit a document called a Request to Establish Custody and Parenting Time with your court clerk. This begins the formal court process of receiving a custody decision.
- Attend all court dates: Be present at every scheduled court appearance. Consistency and reliability can positively affect the judge’s perception.
- Attempt mediation: In many cases, the court encourages parents to work with a neutral mediator to create a parenting schedule without having a trial.
- Prepare for a custody trial: If mediation is not successful, a family law judge will issue a final decision regarding custody and parenting time.
Securing the right to raise your child in a loving, stable environment requires careful navigation with an attorney. We stand by your side, providing guidance every step of the way. Our team handles the legal steps, allowing you to focus on what’s most important—your child’s well-being.
How To Establish An Effective Custody And Visitation Agreement
The best child custody plans require two parents who are willing to work together to do what is best for their kids. Developing a child custody settlement and visitation schedule requires clear communication, not just during negotiation but also after a settlement has been reached. We always encourage our clients to work with their co-parents, so they can put in place the mechanisms needed to protect their kids.
You want to structure your child custody settlement in such a way that your children have every opportunity to succeed. Taking a collaborative approach when possible, we encourage our clients not to let disputes over money bleed into concerns over their children. We will make sure you keep your kids’ futures in mind because every decision you make now will have an impact down the road.
Most parents are reasonable and will work for a fair settlement, but problems do arise. If you are involved in a child custody dispute, we have the trial experience and resources to protect your interests, and your children, in court. We will work to resolve your dispute in a manner that keeps your children out of the middle as much as possible.
Helping People Find A Path To A New Beginning. Call Us Today.
We know you have a lot on your mind as you try to do what is best for your kids. That is why our Minnesota attorneys are here to answer your questions and provide you with creative solutions. Call 952-219-7897 or contact our law office online to schedule an appointment at our Minneapolis law offices.