This Sunday is Mothers’ Day, and with respect to all mothers, it is also a good time to look at the word “mother” as a verb. According to the Merriam-Webster online dictionary, to “mother” can mean to care for or protect someone, and the act need not be (and often is not) done by mothers per se. It can also be done by fathers, grandparents, friends, aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters, just to name a few. It is within this context that people often seek court intervention regarding their status or someone else’s status as a caregiver to a child. Visitation and custody actions are the typical vehicles for legally establishing this “mothering” status, so to speak.
We at the Law Library are always happy to show people statutes, rules, and treatise materials regarding custody or visitation actions. If one needs legal assistance or advice in the family law realm, a good place to go is the Ramsey County Family Court Pro Se Clinic. This clinic is a free service dedicated to helping self-represented people who have a live or potential case in Ramsey County Family Court. Volunteer attorneys experienced in Family Law staff this clinic, and there are no restrictions on income to use this service. These attorneys can provide answers to legal questions, offer procedural advice, explain court orders and help fill out court provided forms, but CANNOT represent you in court. Subject areas covered include divorce, child custody, child support, visitation/parenting time, and paternity issues. In addition, the Clinic has recently added third party child custody actions to its scope
The clinic is staffed very Monday, Wednesday and Thursday (excluding holidays) from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Call 651-266-5125 to make an appointment or to inquire about walk-in procedures. (NOTE: Children are not allowed in the appointment.)
Family Court Self-Help Service Center
Juvenile and Family Justice Center
25 West 7th Street
St. Paul, MN 55102
I agree, a mother’s love is unconditional. Through good and bad times, a mother will always be there for her children. Especially when her child encounters problems she’s there to comfort.