Minnesota Divorce Process

Preliminary Steps for the Minnesota Divorce Process

Prior to starting a Minnesota divorce proceeding or immediately after being served with divorce papers, a divorcing party will want to:

  1. Remove ½ of the funds in joint bank accounts
  2. Close credit accounts with joint names
  3. Open new credit accounts in your name only
  4. Compile your and your spouse’s financial holdings
  5. Hire an experienced divorce attorney

Service of Process

Proceedings for Minnesota marriage dissolution (divorce), legal separation, or annulment are started by personal service of a summons and petition on the other party.

Summons

A Summons is a legal document which puts a party on notice that an action, in this case a Minnesota divorce, has been started.

Petition for Dissolution

The Petition for Dissolution is a legal document in the action for divorce, separation or annulment which accompanies the Summons.  The Petition contains the general allegations in the matter and requests relief.  The general allegations typically center on child custody, child support, spousal maintenance, property division and the payment of legal fees.

Parenting Education Classes

In an effort to make parents more aware of the effects of Minnesota divorce on children, the court mandates that each party attend a court-approved parent education class prior to the Minnesota divorce being granted.  Approved classes are unique to each county.

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Now mandated by the courts, parties involved in Minnesota family law proceedings must attempt to settle the issues prior to a hearing. The most common types of ADR process is Early Neutral Evaluation, Mediation, and Arbitration.

When dealing with divorce and related issues, it’s best to work with a competent Minnesota divorce lawyer.