Do You Need Help with a Family Law Matter?

A Family Law Matter may include:

  • Divorce (Marital Dissolution)
  • Alimony (Spousal Maintenance)
  • Legal Separation
  • Child Support
  • Custody
  • Visitation
  • Paternity
  • Domestic Abuse

Courts decide by applying laws (statutes) and looking at previously decided cases (Case Law).

Where Do You Begin?

Because each person is at a different stage of his or her family law matter, there is not one answer. Where YOU should begin depends upon your specific situation. You must first determine your immediate need. This document can provide some possible starting points. It also identifies resources in the community.

If you are a woman in immediate danger of being physically abused, call a women's' shelter. Advocates can help provide for the safety of you and your children.

If you have been served with court papers, check carefully the deadline for answering. Call an attorney immediately to help you decide how you proceed.

If you are ready to hire a lawyer, referral services can provide the names of attorneys.

If you are unable to pay an attorney, contact an agency that provides free or low-cost legal assistance. Call the Legal Aid program in your county or in the county where the case is likely to go to court.

Remember:

  • Most agencies use county-of-residence to determine eligibility.
  • Income guidelines and case type vary for each agency.
  • If you are turned down by an agency, ask for a referral to an organization that may be able to help you.
  • Be patient and persistent. It may be difficult to get through by phone or you may be placed on a waiting list. Many agencies are understaffed; they are doing their best with limited resources.
  • The legal process may seem to go slowly. Some agencies require a 6-month separation from your spouse before they will start a dissolution action. Once the process has begun, an uncontested divorce may take 3 to 6 months; a contested case may take 12 to 36 months.
  • It is VERY IMPORTANT to make the divorce settlement as fair and well-planned as possible. You will be living with the consequences for many years.
    Few agencies provide services to change visitation, custody, or child support after a divorce.
  • YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Social service agencies have support groups and counseling to help people adjust to change. Create a support network of friends, family, and peers. Consider support groups or therapy to help you through this difficult time.

Free or Low-Cost Agencies, and What They Provide

LEGAL AID
320.253.0121
Free.
Legal representation for low income persons. Case types and priorities vary by program. Most assist with dissolution, paternity, custody and domestic abuse. Call to see if they can assist you.

VOLUNTEER ATTORNEY PROGRAM (Pro Bono)
320.253.0121
Free.
Similar to Legal Aid programs. Services provided by volunteer attorneys.

CHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT
320.656.6086
Low cost.
Works closely with County Attorneys to establish paternity, child support orders, etc. Free to low-income persons.

ATTORNEY REFERRAL
Minnesota State Bar Association 800.292.4152
Fee Varies.
Referral to private attorneys who represent clients in family law cases. Referral rates vary. Individual attorney rates vary.

COUNTY ORDER FOR PROTECTION OFFICE
320.656.6000
Free.
Advocacy for victims of domestic abuse. Assists in filling out Orders For Protection. May provide legal advocate.

WOMEN'S SHELTER
Anna Marie's
320.252.1603
Free.
Advocacy and shelter for victims of domestic abuse. May assist with Orders For Protection, legal advocacy. Provides information about community resources.

LAW LIBRARY
320.656.3678
Has Statutes, Case Law, Legal Services booklets, etc.