Summer is a season of opportunities! The longer days, warm weather and a break from the school routine make it the perfect time to create lasting memories with your children. For divorced or separated parents in Minnesota, however, securing more summer parenting time can feel like a challenge.
Whether you’re looking to increase custody time, extend summer visitation or simply spend more time with your kids during the summer months, understanding Minnesota’s parenting time laws and taking proactive steps can make all the difference. At Martine Law, we’re here to help you navigate this process. Here’s what you need to know.
Understanding Summer Parenting Time in Minnesota
In Minnesota, parenting time (formerly referred to as “visitation”) is governed by the best interests of the child, a principle enshrined in state law (Minnesota Statutes, Section 518.17). While parenting plans typically outline a year-round schedule, summer often requires special consideration due to the shift in routine. Courts recognize that summer can be an ideal time for parents to bond with their children, but the specifics of your summer parenting time depend on your existing custody agreement and the willingness of both parties to cooperate.
If your current parenting plan doesn’t provide the summer time you’d like with your kids, you’re not stuck. Minnesota law allows for modifications to parenting time when circumstances change or when it serves the child’s best interests. The key is knowing how to approach the process effectively. Our expert team of family lawyers can help you increase your summer parenting time. Contact us today and we’ll talk you through your options.
Steps to Increase Summer Custody or Visitation Time
- Review Your Current Parenting Plan
Start by examining your existing custody or parenting time agreement. Does it address summer specifically? Some plans include provisions for extended summer visitation, while others default to the regular schedule. Identifying gaps or opportunities in your current plan is the first step toward requesting more time. - Communicate with the Other Parent
Before involving the courts, consider discussing your desire for more summer parenting time with your co-parent. A cooperative agreement can save time, money and stress. Propose a schedule that benefits both the children and the other parent—perhaps offering flexibility in return, such as additional holiday time during the school year. - File a Motion to Modify Parenting Time
If negotiation isn’t an option, you can petition the court to modify your parenting time. In Minnesota, you’ll need to demonstrate that the change is in the child’s best interests and that there’s a substantial reason for the adjustment—such as a desire for extended summer bonding or a shift in your availability. Working with an experienced family law attorney can strengthen your case by ensuring your request aligns with Minnesota law. - Highlight the Benefits for Your Child
Courts prioritize the child’s well-being. When requesting more summer custody time, emphasize how it will enrich your child’s life. Will you take them on educational trips? Enroll them in summer activities like camp or sports? Spend quality time at the lake? Showing a clear plan can bolster your argument. - Understand the Legal Timeline
Modifications take time, so plan ahead. Filing early—ideally in late winter or early spring—gives you the best chance to have your new summer schedule in place by June. An attorney can help expedite the process and avoid unnecessary delays.
Minnesota Summer Parenting Time Laws: What You Should Know
Minnesota doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all rule for summer parenting time, but courts often encourage flexibility during this season. For example, if one parent typically has limited time during the school year due to work or distance, summer can be an opportunity to balance things out with extended visitation. The state’s guidelines also allow for “reasonable parenting time” if no specific schedule exists, but vague terms can lead to disputes—another reason to have a clear, court-approved plan.
Additionally, Minnesota law permits parents to request a parenting time modification without proving a major change in circumstances, as long as the adjustment doesn’t drastically alter the custody arrangement. This makes it easier to seek more summer time without overhauling your entire agreement.
Common Scenarios for Extending Summer Visitation
- The Long-Distance Parent: If you live far from your child, summer might be your best chance for extended visits. Courts may grant weeks or even a month of consecutive time to make up for limited school-year contact.
- The Working Parent: If your job allows more flexibility in summer, you could request additional weeks to offset a busier fall or winter schedule.
- The Activity-Driven Parent: Planning a family vacation or enrolling your kids in summer programs can justify more time, showing the court you’re focused on their growth and happiness.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Navigating Minnesota’s family law system can be complex, especially when emotions run high. An experienced attorney can help you craft a compelling case, negotiate with the other parent, or represent you in court if needed. At Martine Law, we’ve helped countless Minnesota parents secure more summer parenting time, ensuring they can make the most of this precious season with their children.
Make This Summer Count
More time with your kids in summer isn’t just about quantity—it’s about quality. Whether it’s fishing on one of our beautiful Minnesota lakes, exploring state parks or simply enjoying downtime together, every moment strengthens your bond.
If you’re ready to increase your summer custody time or extend your visitation, don’t wait. Contact us today for a consultation. Let’s work together to create a summer parenting plan that puts your children first—and gives you the time you deserve.