Frequently Asked Questions

Minnesota courts determine custody based on factors including the child's relationship with each parent, home stability, and the child's adjustment to school and community. Judges also consider each parent's ability to encourage ongoing contact with the other parent. At Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC, we build cases around these statutory factors to protect your parental rights.

Joint custody means both parents share legal decision-making authority, while sole custody grants one parent exclusive control over major decisions like education and healthcare. Physical custody arrangements can vary under either structure. Minnesota courts prefer joint legal custody when parents can cooperate effectively.

Yes, child support can be modified when there's a substantial change in circumstances, such as significant income changes or custody adjustments. Minnesota requires applying current child support guidelines to the updated financial information. At Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC, we represent both payors and recipients in modification proceedings.

During a contested hearing, both parents present evidence and testimony to support their custody requests. The judge evaluates credibility, parenting history, and best-interest factors before issuing an order. At Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC, we prepare clients thoroughly for testimony and advocate strongly throughout the hearing process.

Minnesota uses statutory guidelines that consider each parent's gross income, the number of children, and parenting time percentages. The calculation also accounts for work-related childcare costs and health insurance premiums. Accurate income documentation is essential to ensure correct support obligations.

You should file when there's been a significant change affecting the child's best interests, such as a parent's relocation, schedule changes, or safety concerns. Minnesota law requires showing the modification serves the child's welfare. At Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC, we help clients assess whether current circumstances justify filing.

Many parents damage their case by failing to document interactions or by speaking negatively about the other parent in front of the child. Courts value parents who encourage healthy relationships with both sides. Maintaining clear records and focusing on the child's needs strengthens your position significantly.

Minnesota can enforce support through wage garnishment, tax refund interception, license suspension, and contempt proceedings. The state's child support enforcement division works with county attorneys to pursue compliance. At Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC, we represent clients on both sides of enforcement actions statewide.

Yes, post-dissolution modifications are common when circumstances change significantly. You must demonstrate the modification serves the child's best interests and that conditions have changed since the original order. Minnesota courts require a higher standard for custody changes than for parenting time adjustments.

Minnesota divides marital property equitably, considering marriage length, each spouse's economic circumstances, and contributions to asset acquisition. Non-marital property acquired before marriage or through inheritance typically remains separate. Complex financial disputes require thorough documentation and strategic negotiation.

Contested divorces typically take six months to over a year depending on complexity, discovery needs, and court schedules. Cases involving custody disputes or complex assets often require more time. At Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC, we work to resolve matters efficiently while protecting your interests throughout the process.

Yes, custody evaluations conducted by court-appointed professionals carry significant weight in contested cases. Evaluators assess parenting abilities, home environments, and the child's preferences when age-appropriate. At Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC, we prepare clients thoroughly for evaluations and advocate based on the findings.