Grounds for Removing a Child From a Mother's Custody in Minnesota

Most states, Minnesota included, prefer to grant custody of a child to the mother. There are, however, several conditions that can make a mother legally unfit to care for her child in the eyes of the law.

Physical and Mental Abuse

• In Minnesota, both physical and mental child abuse are illegal and can result in revoked custody. Physical abuse can include beatings or sexual exploitation, and mental abuse can include belittlement, or actions that cause damage to the child's self-esteem.

Neglect and Abandonment

• Maternal neglect or abandonment can result in revoked custody. This may include not providing a child with basic needs, or leaving a child unsupervised.

Parent Substance Abuse

• A child can be removed from the mother's custody in Minnesota if the mother has a substance abuse problem. Abusing illegal drugs, prescription drugs or alcohol is considered an unfit environment for a child.