Petition For Third Party Custody {CHC-603}

CHC-603 - PETITION TO ESTABLISH THIRD PARTY CUSTODY. This form is used in Minnesota District Court by an individual (the petitioner) who is seeking legal custody of a child or children who are not their own. This typically applies when the petitioner is not a biological or adoptive parent but has a significant relationship with the child(ren), such as a grandparent, relative, or close family friend. The form gathers detailed information about all parties involved, including the petitioner, any co-petitioner, both biological or adoptive parents, and any legal guardians or custodians. It also requires information about the children, such as their names, ages, where they live, custody history, and whether they are members of an Indian tribe (as required by federal and state law). The petitioner must state whether they are seeking custody as a De Facto Custodian (someone who has been the child’s primary caregiver for a substantial period) or as an Interested Third Party (someone who can demonstrate the parents are unfit or that custody with them would be harmful to the child). The form also includes questions about other court cases involving the children, the involvement of the parents in the children’s lives, and whether domestic violence or neglect is an issue. It complies with both state law (Minn. Stat. ch. 257C) and tribal protections under the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) and the Minnesota Indian Family Preservation Act (MIFPA). www.FormsWorkflow.com