Most children do not struggle because their parents divorce. They struggle because of what they are exposed to during it. That distinction matters. Research shows that children at the greatest risk for mental health problems are those exposed to high conflict between parents during and after divorce, not the separation itself. For families going through divorce, that creates a clear … Read More

When you’re facing divorce, your heart is likely pulled in two directions at once. You’re dealing with your own grief, fear, and uncertainty while also trying to shield your children from the same feelings. If you’re worried about the effects of divorce on children, you’re not alone. Almost half of the children growing up in the United States have seen … Read More

Debt can be one of the most complicated and stressful parts of a divorce. Sometimes, even more so than dividing property or deciding custody arrangements.  When couples separate in Utah, they not only have to determine what they’re entitled to keep, but also who will be responsible for the debts accumulated during the marriage. Household debt in the United States … Read More

Spousal support is one of the most debated (and most misunderstood) parts of a Utah divorce, especially when both sides are trying to predict a number the court never hands out upfront. Our state doesn’t hand you a neat formula when you’re trying to figure out spousal support. There’s no magic Utah spousal support calculator, automatic percentage, or quick plug-and-play … Read More

TL;DR: Hiding assets during a Utah divorce is illegal and can lead to serious consequences, including contempt of court charges and an unfair division of property. The court has methods to detect hidden assets, and such actions can negatively affect the outcome of your case. Divorce can be challenging enough, but the situation becomes even more stressful if your spouse … Read More

TL;DR: When it comes to divorce in Utah, pets are considered property, and custody is determined based on ownership and any prior agreements. The court considers the best interests of the pet, including factors like care and living arrangements, when making decisions. Are you worried about who gets pet custody in a divorce?  You’re not alone.  Divorce affects more than … Read More

Most people going through a divorce hope for a smooth process so they can start fresh as soon as possible. But sometimes, disagreements over property, finances, or child custody make it impossible to settle on your own.    Once negotiations stall, the court treats your divorce as contested.   If you’re in this position, you need someone who knows Utah’s divorce laws … Read More

TL;DR: Domestic violence significantly affects divorce and custody cases in Utah. Courts prioritize the safety and well-being of children and the abused spouse. Evidence of domestic violence can influence custody decisions and division of property, and may also lead to protective orders. Domestic violence not only destroys a marriage but also affects everything that comes after, including divorce and custody … Read More

TL;DR: In a Utah divorce, retirement accounts are considered marital property and may be subject to division. This includes assets like 401(k)s and IRAs, which are divided based on the length of the marriage and other factors, often requiring a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO). When a marriage ends, few assets cause as much confusion, or as many disputes, as … Read More

TL;DR: Managing finances during and after a Utah divorce involves tracking assets, setting a new budget, and separating accounts. Clear planning helps you stay organized and adjust to your financial situation as you move forward. Divorce can be one of the most emotionally draining experiences you’ll ever go through, but it’s also a time when you need to focus on … Read More