Family matters can feel overwhelming. Kenneth M. Wasche, Attorney and Counselor at Law, has supported families in Blaine, Anoka County, and the Twin Cities for decades. Whether you are starting the divorce process, responding to a petition, or looking for guidance before making a decision, you deserve clear direction from someone you trust.
Support for the most important areas of family law
We help with a wide range of Minnesota family law issues, including:
- Alimony and Spousal Support
- Divorce
- Child Custody Jurisdiction (UCCJEA)
- Child Custody and Parenting Time
- Child Support and Parenting Time
- Domestic Violence and Restraining Orders
- Grandparents’ Rights
- Modification of Custody
- Modification of Child Support
Family law cases often involve several issues at once: finances, parenting time, decision-making authority, safety concerns, and long-term planning. We explain how Minnesota law applies to your situation and help you understand your rights before you make major decisions.
A practical, solutions-focused approach
Kenneth approaches family law cases with a steady, practical mindset. Instead of treating your situation as a problem to untangle, he works with you to create a step-by-step plan. The goal is forward progress, clarity, and an outcome that supports you and your family.
Every case is different. Kenneth reviews your financial details, parenting concerns, timelines, and goals, then builds a strategy that fits. You get guidance grounded in Minnesota family law, explained in a straightforward, easy-to-understand way.
Understanding the family law process in Minnesota
Most Minnesota family law matters follow similar steps:
- Initial consultation: Review your concerns, goals, and any documents.
- Filing or responding: A divorce, custody, or support petition begins the case.
- Temporary issues: The court may set temporary parenting schedules, support, or home use.
- Discovery: Both sides exchange financial records and important documents.
- Negotiation or mediation: Many cases settle outside of court, saving time and cost.
- Court hearings: If needed, the court makes final decisions on unresolved issues.
Some cases resolve quickly. Others take longer depending on conflict, parenting dynamics, or the level of agreement. We provide consistent updates and guidance so you know what to expect at every stage.
Clear, honest representation
Clients receive direct advice, clear explanations, and realistic expectations about their case. Kenneth focuses on protecting your long-term interests and preparing you for each decision ahead. If you are ready to talk, you can begin with a consultation.
Family Law FAQs
Family law questions come up fast. Review common Minnesota questions below. If you do not see yours, call 763-280-5100, email info@kmwasche.com, or send us a message and we will help.
What family law matters do you handle in Minnesota?Divorce, custody, parenting time, child support, spousal maintenance, and related issues.
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We handle Minnesota divorce, legal separation, custody and parenting time, child support, spousal maintenance (alimony), domestic violence concerns, and related property and financial issues. To discuss your situation, call 763-280-5100 or email info@kmwasche.com.
Do I have to live in Minnesota to file for divorce here?Yes. At least one spouse must meet Minnesota residency requirements.
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Minnesota law requires that at least one spouse has lived in Minnesota, or has been a member of the armed forces stationed here, for a required period before filing. If you recently moved, it is important to confirm whether Minnesota or another state is the correct place to file. We can review your situation in a short consultation by phone, video, or at our Blaine office at 13060 Central Avenue NE, Suite 200, Blaine, MN 55434.
Do I need a specific reason or “grounds” to get divorced in Minnesota?Minnesota is a no-fault state. You do not need to prove wrongdoing.
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Minnesota uses “irretrievable breakdown” as the legal basis for divorce. You do not have to prove adultery or misconduct, although behavior can still matter for issues like custody or financial decisions. Our article “Adultery and Divorce in Minnesota” discusses how fault can still come up even in a no-fault system.
How long does a divorce take in Minnesota?Simple cases may resolve in a few months; contested cases take longer.
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Timeline depends on whether you and your spouse agree on property, custody, parenting time, and support. Uncontested divorces may be completed in a matter of months. Contested cases often take longer because of discovery, mediation, evaluations, and court scheduling. Our divorce page explains these steps in more detail.
What is the difference between legal separation and divorce?Divorce ends the marriage; legal separation resolves issues but keeps you legally married.
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Both legal separation and divorce can address custody, parenting time, child support, spousal maintenance, and property division. Divorce ends the marriage. Legal separation does not end the marriage but still creates a court order governing your rights and obligations. Which option is better depends on finances, benefits, and personal or religious considerations. We review options with you during a consultation.
How does Minnesota divide property in a divorce?Minnesota uses “equitable distribution,” focusing on what is fair.
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Minnesota divides marital property in a way that is fair, which does not always mean a perfect 50/50 split. Courts look at the length of the marriage, contributions of each spouse, income, debts, and future needs. Our article “Distribution of Assets” and “Division of Assets: Marital Home” provide helpful background.
What happens to debt in a divorce?Debts are divided along with assets, based on what is fair under the circumstances.
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Courts consider credit cards, loans, and other obligations when dividing the marital estate. Even if a debt is only in one spouse’s name, it may still be considered marital if it was incurred during the marriage. Our article “What Debt Will I Have After Divorce?” discusses common concerns and examples.
What happens to the house in a Minnesota divorce?Options include selling, one spouse buying out the other, or delayed sale.
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The home is often one of the most important assets. Solutions may include selling and dividing proceeds, one spouse refinancing and buying out the other, or delaying sale until a later date. Issues like equity, mortgage, children’s school needs, and tax considerations all matter. Our article “Division of Assets: Marital Home” explains common approaches.
How does Minnesota decide child custody?Courts use the “best interests of the child” standard.
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Minnesota courts consider safety, stability, each parent’s caregiving history, the child’s needs, schedules, and relationships. There are two types of custody: legal custody (major decisions) and physical custody (where the child lives). Our custody page and the article “Best Interest of the Child” outline the factors courts review.
What is parenting time and how are schedules set?Parenting time is the schedule that defines when the child is with each parent.
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Parenting time orders can range from equal time schedules to variations that fit work hours, school, and distance between homes. Courts look for plans that support stability and meaningful relationships with both parents when it is safe to do so. Our article “Parenting Time Blunders” discusses common mistakes to avoid.
How is child support calculated in Minnesota?Minnesota uses an income-shares formula based on both parents’ earnings and parenting time.
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Child support considers each parent’s income, parenting time schedule, medical and childcare costs, and other adjustments. Even small changes in income or overnights can change the calculation. Our article “Child Support” explains how Minnesota’s guidelines work in practice.
Does Minnesota award alimony or spousal maintenance?Yes, depending on need, income, and the length of the marriage.
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Spousal maintenance is based on factors such as each spouse’s income, work history, reasonable expenses, the length of the marriage, and whether one spouse needs support to become self-supporting. Minnesota does not have a strict formula. Our alimony and spousal support page explains short-term and longer-term maintenance questions.
Can you help with domestic violence, OFPs, or harassment orders?Yes. We assist with protection orders and related family law issues.
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We help clients seek Orders for Protection (OFPs) and Harassment Restraining Orders (HROs), and we also represent people who have been served and need to respond. Safety issues often affect custody and parenting time. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For legal help, call our Blaine office at 763-280-5100 and see our Domestic Violence page.
Can custody, parenting time, or support be changed later?Yes, when there is a substantial change in circumstances.
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Changes in income, work schedules, a child’s needs, relocation, or safety concerns can justify modifying custody, parenting time, or child support. Minnesota requires a legal basis and supporting evidence. We help parents evaluate whether a modification is appropriate and file or respond to motions.
What if we were never married? Do I still need a custody or support order?Yes. Unmarried parents often need court orders for custody, parenting time, and support.
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Signing a Recognition of Parentage (ROP) is an important step, but it does not create a full custody or parenting time order by itself. Unmarried parents often need court orders to define legal custody, physical custody, parenting time, and child support. Our article “Recognition of Parentage” explains why this matters.
Do grandparents have visitation rights in Minnesota?In some situations, grandparents can request court-ordered time.
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Grandparents may seek visitation in certain circumstances, such as when a parent has passed away or when they have a long-standing relationship with the child. Courts balance parents’ rights with the child’s best interests. Our article “Grandparent Visitation Rights” discusses these cases.
Do most Minnesota family law cases settle without trial?Yes. Many cases resolve through negotiation or mediation.
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Most family law cases settle before trial, often in mediation or through attorney negotiations. Settlement can reduce cost and conflict and gives you more control over the outcome. If settlement is not possible, we prepare your case for court and advocate for you at hearings.
What are common mistakes people make during a divorce or custody case?Moving too fast, posting on social media, and signing documents without legal review.
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Common mistakes include signing agreements without understanding long-term effects, ignoring court orders, using social media in ways that hurt your case, and not documenting important events. Articles like “Thinking About Divorce”, “Parenting Time Blunders”, and “What Happens to Keepsakes During a Divorce?” highlight issues to watch for.
Can I use online forms and handle my family law case alone?Forms can help, but they are not a substitute for advice tailored to your situation.
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Online court forms and guides are useful, but they do not explain every option or reflect your exact circumstances. Small wording choices can affect custody, property, and support. Many clients start on their own and then ask us to review documents or take over. If you have already filed paperwork, we can still help. Call 763-280-5100 to talk about next steps.
How do I get started with a Minnesota family law case?Schedule a consultation to review your goals, questions, and next steps.
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The first step is a conversation about your family, finances, and goals. We explain how Minnesota law applies, what documents we need, and what to expect from the process. Consultations are available at our Blaine office at 13060 Central Avenue NE, Suite 200, Blaine, MN 55434, or by phone or video. Call 763-280-5100, email info@kmwasche.com, or visit the contact page to schedule.