We hear all the time that this parent has custody or that parent gets the kids this weekend. Despite the commonality of parenting time arrangements around the state, Minnesota parents often do not know the practicalities of child custody disputes until they are forced to confront them themselves.
For instance, child custody issues can arise in situations other than a divorce or parental separation. Paternity actions, domestic abuse allegations or juvenile proceedings may all call into question the current custody scenario.
That custody scenario is two-fold. A parent or guardian may have legal custody and physical custody of a child. Legal custody gives the holder the right to make decisions about the child’s upbringing, including education. Physical custody, meanwhile, is the right to manage the day to day care of the kid. These custody categories may be individual or held jointly.
From there, parents or guardians divvy up parenting time or visitation rights. Regardless of who has what type of custody, visitation rights seek to set out when and where a parent can spend time with their child.
All of this, of course, is subject to court intervention. While parents can mediate and resolve certain things amongst themselves, courts are often required to formalize agreements or resolve disputes. As a result, there is red tape and paperwork parents must be aware of.
Local St. Paul area family law attorneys are experienced with all of this. They can help simplify the process for a parent going through a custody issue. From identifying potential solutions to carrying out a strategy, these experienced professionals pride themselves in protecting parental rights and ensuring the best interests of the child are secured.
Source: Minnesota Judicial Branch, “Basics on Child Custody & Parenting Time,” Accessed on August 26, 2014