When Child Support Is Late, Can You Withhold Visitation?
Your ex has fallen behind on child support, and you’re understandably frustrated. In fact, you want to motivate your former spouse to bring his or her obligation current. Unfortunately, you cannot legally withhold visitation rights in Utah, even if child support payments aren’t current. While it may seem completely fair, stopping your ex from spending parent […]
Family Law and the Basics of Guardianship
In matters of family law, it is often necessary to appoint a guardian. This term refers to someone who has the legal authority to make decisions for someone else, referred to as the ward or protected person. When Is a Guardian Appointed in a Family Law Case? Under Utah family law, an adult who has lost […]
How Moving Out Affects Child Custody in a Divorce
Child custody is one of the most complex aspects of a divorce, and you must take great care to not compromise your rights. Moving out — even when done with the best intentions — could influence custody arrangements in your spouse’s favor. Before you decide to leave the marital home, consider the potential ramifications. It is wise to […]
How to Choose the Right Utah Divorce Lawyer
An experienced divorce lawyer will protect your interests, help you understand possible outcomes for you and your children, and make this difficult process as stress-free as possible. Hiring an attorney is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during this time, and your decision can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. So […]
Divorce Litigation — What Happens to the Pets?
Of all the details decided in divorce litigation, the disposition of pets can be very emotional. In millions of households across the country, pets are regarded as members of the family. Yet divorce courts view them very differently. In the eyes of the law, pets are not little, furry children and therefore do not require custody […]
Can Mediation Work for You?
In Utah, mediation is mandatory for most divorce cases. Divorce mediation typically involves sitting down with a neutral third party, in an attempt to resolve any issues in dispute. Generally, you and your spouse must participate in at least one session. But can mediation actually work? Sometimes the answer is yes, particularly in cases where the decision […]
What Counts as Neglect?
For some it may not be new to you, for your child to return from a stay with your ex, in less than perfect condition. Maybe their hair is a mess, and a few things missing like their socks or sandals. They haven’t brushed their teeth the entire weekend that they were gone. Questions flood […]
Understanding Alimony in a Utah Divorce Proceeding
Does the granting of a Utah divorce decree require alimony payments? This is a common question our clients frequently ask. The answer depends on several factors. Also known as spousal support, alimony payments are awarded in many cases. Consequently, it is reasonable to expect some discussion on this point during the negotiation phase. Who Can Be Awarded Alimony […]
Filing for a Protective Order in Utah
In Utah, a protective order is a tool used to keep a victim of domestic violence or abuse safe from harm. This document may demand, among other restrictive orders that the alleged abuser may not contact the person filing the petition. If the terms of the protective order are violated, the police can be contacted to enforce […]
How To Prepare for Mediation
Whether it’s your first time mediating or whether you’ve attended before, keep these considerations in mind as you are preparing to attend mediation. Come With an Open Mind Mediation can be a powerful tool if both parties allow it to be. Be prepared to discuss issues pertaining to your case. At mediation you may come to […]