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.
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.
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.
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.
- Joint Petition to Establish Custody and Parenting Time
- Request to Establish Custody and Parenting Time
- Response to Request to Establish Custody and Parenting Time
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.
- Request for Change of Custody
- Response to Request for Change of Custody
- Request for Parenting Time Assistance
- Response to Request for Parenting Time Assistance
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.