Guiding Minnesota Families Through Parenting Time Arrangements
Last updated on April 16, 2025
When parents separate or divorce, establishing clear parenting time arrangements (formerly called visitation) becomes essential for maintaining stability in children’s lives. Minnesota law emphasizes that children benefit from meaningful relationships with both parents whenever possible.
At CC&S, our family law attorneys have been helping parents throughout Anoka, Sherburne, Wright and Hennepin counties create workable parenting plans since 1979. We understand the emotional complexities involved in these arrangements and work diligently to help you develop solutions that serve your children’s best interests while respecting your parental rights.
Minnesota Parenting Time Arrangements
Minnesota courts recognize several parenting time frameworks based on family circumstances:
● Equal parenting time (50/50): Children spend approximately equal time with each parent, often alternating weeks or following a 2-2-3 schedule
● Traditional arrangements: One parent has primary physical custody while the other has regularly scheduled parenting time on weekends and evenings
● Supervised parenting time: Court-ordered supervision when safety concerns exist, with visits occurring at designated facilities or with approved supervisors
● Reasonable parenting time: Flexible arrangements that allow parents to coordinate schedules cooperatively without rigid court-mandated times
Most parenting plans also address holiday schedules, birthdays, school breaks and summer vacations. These special occasions typically alternate between parents from year to year, with specific provisions for transportation, exchange locations and communication during longer separations.
Factors Determining Parenting Time Decisions
Minnesota courts consider several factors when determining parenting time arrangements, all centered on the best interests of the child:
● The child’s age, developmental stage and specific needs
● Each parent’s historical caregiving role and demonstrated parenting capacity
● Work schedules and availability for active parenting
● The child’s established routines, school arrangements and community connections
● The child’s reasonable preferences when age-appropriate
● Any history of domestic abuse or other safety concerns
Courts generally favor arrangements that provide children with frequent, meaningful contact with both parents while minimizing disruptions to their education and activities.
Modifying Existing Parenting Time Orders
Minnesota allows for adjustments when there has been a substantial change in circumstances that makes the existing order unreasonable or not in the child’s best interests.
The modification process begins with filing a motion with the court that granted the original order. Supporting documentation must demonstrate how circumstances have changed and why the proposed modifications better serve the child.
Addressing Parenting Time Violations
When one parent consistently interferes with court-ordered parenting time, Minnesota provides several enforcement remedies:
● Compensatory parenting time
● Civil penalties and attorney’s fees
● Court-ordered parenting time assistance programs
● Custody modifications in severe cases
Our lawyers help clients document violations and pursue appropriate legal remedies while working toward cooperative co-parenting whenever possible.
Contact Our Minnesota Parenting Time Attorneys
At CC&S, our experienced Minneapolis-based lawyers will help you create arrangements that support your children’s well-being while protecting your parental rights. Call us at 763-515-0355 or complete our online contact form to schedule a consultation.