Strategic Scheduling and Advocacy Under Minnesota’s 2026 50% Parenting Time Laws
As of August 1, 2026, the landscape of parenting in Minnesota has fundamentally changed. The law now recognizes a rebuttable presumption of 50% parenting time for each parent. At Heimerl & Lammers, we help Minneapolis parents navigate this new “equal parenting” standard to build schedules that protect their bond with their children while ensuring long-term stability.
While Child Custody focuses on decision-making rights, Parenting Time (formerly known as visitation) is the actual calendar that dictates your life. Our North Loop-based team understands the specific requirements of the Hennepin County court system and the logistical realities of Twin Cities families.
The 2026 Shift: The 50/50 Parenting Time Presumption
Under the updated Minnesota Statute 518.175, the court now begins with the assumption that a child should spend equal time with both parents. This shift, driven by 2025-2026 legislative sessions (SF 4343), aims to reduce litigation by establishing a clear default. However, 50% is not a guarantee. The court may deviate from this presumption based on:
- Substantial distance between parental residences (making 50/50 logsitically impossible).
- Safety concerns, including domestic abuse or chemical dependency.
- The specific developmental or special needs of the child.
- A parent’s inability or unwillingness to provide daily care.
Navigating SENE in Hennepin County
If you and your co-parent cannot agree on a schedule, Minneapolis judges typically order a Social Early Neutral Evaluation (SENE). This is an intensive, confidential mediation process held at the Hennepin County Government Center or via secure remote sessions.
During SENE, a male and female evaluator team provides an immediate “prediction” of how a judge might rule on your schedule. Our attorneys prepare you for these sessions, ensuring your “narrative” of caregiving is presented clearly and effectively to the evaluators.
Common Parenting Schedules for Minneapolis Families
A “one-size-fits-all” calendar rarely works. We help you draft “Parenting Plans” that account for holidays, MEA breaks, and summer vacations. Popular 50/50 models include:
- 2-2-3 Schedule: Best for younger children who need frequent contact with both parents.
- 2-2-5-5 Schedule: Provides more consistency with “fixed” days every week (e.g., Parent A always has Mondays/Tuesdays).
- Week On / Week Off: Common for teenagers or parents who live slightly further apart in the metro area.
Enforcement and Parenting Time Expeditors (PTE)
When a parenting order is violated—such as a parent refusing to return a child or consistently showing up late—Minneapolis parents have legal recourse. We assist with Contempt of Court motions and the appointment of Parenting Time Expeditors (PTE). A PTE is a neutral professional who can make binding, on-the-spot decisions to resolve schedule conflicts without the need for a new court hearing.
Work with a Modern Minneapolis Parenting Time Advocate
The 2026 laws are designed to favor equal parenting, but the details of how that time is spent remain in your hands. Whether you are seeking to establish an initial schedule or modify an existing one due to a move or change in employment, our team is here to help.
Contact Heimerl & Lammers today to schedule a consultation at our Minneapolis office. Let’s build a parenting plan that honors your rights and supports your child’s future.