Minnesota Family Laws

Filing fee for dissolution of marriage in Minnesota district court.

At least one spouse must have been a resident of Minnesota for at least 180 days before filing for divorce.

Courts evaluate 13 factors including each parent's relationship with the child, the child's adjustment to home and community, the child's preference (if appropriate age), and any history of domestic abuse.

Marital property is divided equitably considering factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse's income and property, and the contribution of each spouse. Nonmarital property (owned before marriage or received by gift/inheritance) is generally not divided.

Courts may award temporary or permanent spousal maintenance based on need and the other spouse's ability to pay, considering the standard of living during marriage, duration of marriage, and earning capacity.

Minnesota uses an income shares model that considers both parents' gross incomes, parenting time percentages, and the costs of health insurance, childcare, and other factors.

Victims of domestic abuse can petition for an Order for Protection (OFP) requiring the abuser to stay away, leave the home, and surrender firearms. Violations are criminal offenses.