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Child Custody & Parenting Time

Forms

The forms that you use for custody and parenting time depend on different factors, including whether or not you already have a court order for custody.  Review the information below and  carefully read the instructions for each packet of forms which explain when the forms should be used, how to fill out the forms, and what to do with them when completed.
 
If you need help with the forms or filing, contact a Self-Help Center
 
Ask for Custody & Parenting Time (no order exists)
The form packets listed below can only be used in cases where the child(ren)'s parents are not married to each other. Also, both parents must have signed a MN Recognition of Parentage (ROP), or there must be a current paternity order establishing the legal father.
NOTE: Temporary custody or parenting time can be granted when a parent gets an Order for Protection from domestic abuse. Married parents can only get an order for custody or parenting time through cases involving divorce or legal separation.

Change Custody & Parenting Time (order exists)
The form packets listed below can be used to ask the court to change an existing custody or parenting time order; enforce a parenting time order; OR assign a parenting time "expeditor" to help with ongoing parenting time problems.
Ask for Custody of Someone Else's Child (Third Party Custody)
The form packets listed below can be used to ask the court for custody of someone else's child or to respond to someone else’s request for third party custody.    
Emergency Custody or Parenting Time Issue
The MN Judicial Branch does NOT publish forms to ask the court for an emergency ex parte order. You might find sample forms at your local law library, but you are strongly encouraged  to talk to a lawyer about your situation.

Need Help?

Self-Help Centers

A Self-Help Center is a place where you can find helpful information, services and resources about your legal problem if you are not represented by a lawyer.

Self-Help Center Locations

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Find a Lawyer

State Law Library

Room G25
Minnesota Judicial Center
25 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55155

(651) 297-7651

mn.gov/law-library