Burton Law Firm Shares Information on How Utah Custody Laws Work

Ogden, Utah (July 25, 2013) – Burton Law Firm is sharing information on how Utah custody laws work for the benefit of parents seeking to win custody of their children. Highly regarded for their dedication to family law, the firm explains the factors that affect a court’s decision on who may raise or decide for a child.

There are two types of custody: legal and physical. Legal custody pertains to the ability of the parent to make important and lawful decisions for their child and is usually granted after divorce. Physical or residential custody, on the other hand, determines how a child will live between both parties, and the amount of time he or she can spend with each parent.

When considering which party deserves physical custody, the court evaluates certain points. For example, previous arrangements that benefit the child are studied, to see if these need to be maintained. The strength of a child’s bond with either parent is also significantly factored in the decision. Likewise, the court reviews the status, character, and capacity of both parents to see which one can serve as a more suitable caretaker.

The court’s ruling, however, may be changed if there are significant changes in the life of the parent who has been granted custody. If this happens, Burton Law Firm emphasizes that either parent can file for modifications to the decision. For example, a parent with visitation rights can object if the party with residential custody is planning to move out of state. Because time together is integral to building a healthy relationship between parent and child, this situation requires a court approval.

More than providing a solution to conflicts between both parties, a court’s decision aims to uphold the welfare of the child. In case the parent with residential custody depends on child support but no longer receives it, they may file for an enforcement action that orders their spouse to pay, in accordance with Utah child support laws. Either parent can also request to change the terms of child custody and visitation when the child is no longer doing well as an effect of the decision or is put in harm’s way because of a parent’s behavior.

Divorcing couples and unmarried parents alike can schedule a consultation with a family law attorney from Burton Law Firm to discuss their unique case in detail and explore possible options. For more information, visit www.BurtonLawFirmPC.com today.

About Burton Law Firm

Attorneys Kenneth Burton, Peter Bracken, and Ammon Nelson offer legal representation to ensure that clients meet their objectives and goals in dealing with their case. Aside from family law issues, the practice also handles matters that involve estate planning, personal injury, criminal and bankruptcy law, as well as corporate and civil litigation.