Changing Child Custody in Minnesota

 Divorce, Child Custody  & Family Law Lawyers 

Changing Child Custody In Minnesota

How can you change the custody in your case

Changing child custody can be a difficult task in Minnesota. If a noncustodial parent wants to change the custody of a minor child in Minnesota, there are three ways to do this. The first is by a written agreement between the parties. The written agreement must be submitted to the court for approval and should indicate the reasons for the change of custody so the court can determine whether it is in the minor child’s best interests.The second way to change child custody is when the minor child moves in with the noncustodial parent with the knowledge and approval of the custodial parent. This is called integration. For the child to be integrated, they should live with the noncustodial parent for a significant period of time and be integrated into that household through school, activities and relationships. The exact amount of time required and integration of the child into activities and relationships is up to the discretion of a judge. The third way is to prove that the minor child is physically or emotionally endangered in the current custodial environment.

Proving endangerment is not easy and requires a two step process in the court system. The first step is to make a prima facia case (clear evidence) that the child is endangered in the current custodial environment by a motion. If the noncustodial parent is successful with the preliminary motion, then the court will hold an evidentiary hearing (trial) to determine if a change in child custody is in the child’s best interests. Prior to holding the evidentiary hearing the court may assign a Guardian Ad Litem or allow the parties to employ a custody evaluator to investigate the circumstances of the minor child and make recommendations regarding what changes are in the child’s best interests, if any. This type of court proceeding can be very difficult to be successful at and you should not attempt it on your own. You should hire an experienced family law attorney with significant litigation experience to represent you. Plan on spending a few thousand dollars for this type of motion. If you need a custody attorney to answer more questions or represent you in a change of custody matter, contact Priest Law Firm conveniently located to represent clients in Dakota County, Eagan and Lakeville Minnesota

Want more information about child custody?

• Child Custody Overview
• Visitation and Parenting Time

Free 30 Minute Consultation

If you would like to schedule a consultation to review your case, please click the button below. We offer case evaluations to any individual or family that is experiencing family law problems and is looking for solutions.

Recent Awards

Free 30 Minute Case Evaluation