Domestic Violence and Minnesota Family Court

Parenting Time and Custody Basics

Parenting time and custody refer to the legal arrangements outlining how parents share responsibility and spend time with their children after separation. Custody can be physical (where the child lives) and legal (decision-making authority). Courts prioritize the child’s best interests, promoting stability, safety, and healthy relationships.

Raising Domestic Violence Concerns

If domestic violence (DV) is an issue, it is crucial to bring this to the attention of the court during custody or parenting time decisions. Courts carefully assess DV allegations to ensure the child's and protected parent's safety, often adjusting parenting plans or ordering supervised visitation as needed.

Child-Safety Considerations

Child safety remains the paramount concern in parenting arrangements. Factors like the presence of abuse, neglect, substance misuse, or coercive control influence decisions. Protective measures may include supervised visits, restricted exchanges, or denying unsupervised parenting time to reduce risk.

Connections with OFP Evidence

Evidence from an Order for Protection (OFP) can be critical in custody proceedings. OFP records documenting incidents, threats, or patterns of abuse strengthen the case for safety precautions in parenting plans. This evidence helps courts understand the family dynamics and establish appropriate boundaries to protect the child and survivors.

For further guidance and support on navigating parenting time amid domestic violence concerns, visit dv.support.