Understanding Child and Spousal Support Issues in Utah
Child and spousal support can be emotional issues in divorce because they represent a continuing connection with your former spouse. Often times, financial problems and issues exist which also add to the emotional turmoil that surrounds a case. At Burton Law Firm, we can help you understand the support guidelines and ensure your rights are protected, whether you are the person who is required to pay support or the person who receives it.
Utah Child Support Guidelines
In Utah, every child is entitled to be supported by both parents, whether the parents are married or not. If the parents are not living together, support is calculated by a formula based on the income of both parties and the number of children supported. Utah courts rarely deviate from the amount of support that is based on the formula. Child support for unmarried parents is calculated the same way it is for divorced parents.
Child support can be modified after divorce if there is a change in the financial circumstances of either parent. Our lawyer can help you determine if a modification is appropriate given your financial circumstances.
How Alimony is Determined
Alimony is more complex than child support, because there is no formula that is used to calculate payments. Instead, the court's goal is to level the standard of living after divorce so that one party isn't forced to struggle after enjoying a comfortable standard of living during the marriage.
In determining the amount of alimony, the courts will consider the ability of a party to pay, the ability of the other party to earn, and the needs of the party requesting the alimony, in addition to other factors such as the length of the marriage, former lifestyle and any other relevant facts from the marriage.
Alimony may be modified, depending on how the agreement was drafted. This often happens if there is a significant change in the circumstances of either party.
For More Information or to Schedule a Consultation with an Attorney
To discuss child or spousal support with a representative from Burton Law Firm, call 866-443-9676 or fill out the contact form on this Web site. Our law office is located in Ogden, Utah. Hablamos español.
