Why Parenting Time Matters

Parents often come to us thinking parenting time is just a calendar: “You get weekends, I get weekdays.” But good parenting time plans are a lot more than dates. They spell out who handles school pickups and extracurriculars, what happens when a parent’s work schedule changes, how holidays rotate, and how decisions are made about medical care or travel. The goal is to create a plan your family can actually follow — not one that looks good on paper and falls apart the first time it’s tested. 

When courts look at parenting time disputes in Minnesota, they focus on the child’s best interests. That means stability, continuity of routines, each parent’s ability to care for the child, safety issues, and — when appropriate — the child’s own wishes. Our job is to translate those real-life factors into a plan that works and to advocate for orders that reflect your family’s day-to-day reality. 

Realistic Options Beyond the Courtroom

Not every disagreement needs a judge. Many families find better outcomes through mediation, collaborative law, or parenting coordination. Mediation lets parents design custom solutions quickly and privately. Parenting coordinators can help implement parenting plans and resolve routine disputes without going back to court. These routes often save time, money, and emotional wear-and-tear,  and judges generally favor agreements that parents reach cooperatively. 

What to Expect When You Contact Us

We start by listening. We want to hear the facts, the frustrations, and the practical needs. From there we’ll map out realistic options: a negotiated parenting plan, mediation, temporary orders, or litigation. We explain timelines, likely costs, and what documents will be helpful – think calendars, school and medical records, communication logs, and evidence of caregiving responsibilities. 

If court is needed, we prepare thoroughly. That means building a factual record, lining up witnesses, and presenting a parenting plan that’s workable and defensible. If the case can be resolved faster through mediation, we’ll prepare you to negotiate from a position of knowledge and confidence. 

Why Choose Smith, Paulson, O’Donnell & Erickson? 

Because we pair practical problem solving with courtroom readiness. Our family law team knows Minnesota’s local courts and judges, understands the details that make parenting plans work, and brings a steady, compassionate approach to emotionally charged disputes. We advise early to avoid unnecessary litigation and push hard when litigation is needed, always with the child’s best interests at the forefront. 

Ready to Talk? 

Parenting time shapes a child’s days, weeks, and memories. If you’re facing questions about custody, visitation, relocation, or enforcement, or if you just want to draft a plan that actually works, contact Smith, Paulson, O’Donnell & Erickson. We’ll listen, explain your options in plain language, and help you take the next right step for your family. Contact to schedule a confidential consultation. Let’s make a plan that puts your child first and keeps your family moving forward.