Legal Question in Family Law in Minnesota

Re: Father for custody

When determining child custody, the standard the courts use is "the best interest of the child". This is determined by looking at a variety of factors, including the child's preference (if they are old enough), the health and stability of the parents, institutions children may be involved in (schools, churches, etc.), whether their are siblings living with one parent, pecuniary wealth (financial stability) of the parents, etc. If your child's mother is in fact in a household situation that is alcoholic and abusive, the courts will likely consider it in making its decision regarding custody. If you are going to seek custody of any kind, the courts will consider all of the above relevant factors.

Finally, one of the first things that has to be done where a father and mother are not married and have a child is to establish paternity. This can be done in more than one way.

If you would like to discuss this situation further or are in need of representation, please feel free to call me at my office. The number is 763.788.1000.