How to Calculate Spousal Support in Utah

Jeremy AtwoodDivorce

Law office desk with scale of justice and divorce documents, illustrating Utah alimony factors

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

Who Pays the Taxes on Inherited Property in Utah?

Jeremy AtwoodEstate Planning

taxes on inherited property picture of utah home with documents

TL;DR: Utah charges no inheritance tax, and most estates fall well under the $13.99M federal exemption. You will owe regular property taxes once the title transfers to your name. If you sell, the stepped-up basis rule limits your capital gains exposure. An attorney can help you plan ahead. When you inherit a home, it often comes with mixed emotions. You’re … Read More

Signs of Elder Financial Exploitation and What to Do

Jeremy AtwoodElder Law

jeremy atwood speaking with senior woman about financial exploitation

TL;DR: Elder financial exploitation can show up through unusual spending, sudden account changes, or isolation. If you notice warning signs, you can take measures to protect your loved one and report the issue to the proper authorities. When we picture elder abuse, we often think of physical harm or neglect. But one of the most common (and heartbreaking) forms of … Read More

What Happens If a Spouse Hides Assets During a Utah Divorce?

Jeremy AtwoodDivorce

divorce process with jeremy atwood divorce attorney in his office

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

What Is a Utah Advance Health Care Directive and Why Do You Need One?

Jeremy AtwoodFamily Law

advance care directive utah paperwork

Life has a way of surprising us. Sometimes those surprises are beautiful, like a new grandchild or a long-awaited trip. Other times, they’re harder to face.  One of the greatest gifts you can give your loved ones is clarity about what kind of medical treatment you’d want if you couldn’t speak for yourself. That’s exactly what a Utah Advance Health … Read More

8 Questions to Ask a Trust Attorney Before You Hire Them

Jeremy AtwoodEstate Planning

Trust attorney jeremy atwood

Estate planning may not be the most exciting topic, but at its core, it’s an act of care. It’s about protecting what you’ve built and making sure the people you love are provided for, both now and in the future. A living trust lawyer helps make that happen with guidance that makes sense for you. Before you hire one, it … Read More

Why Hiring a Local Family Law Attorney Matters in Utah 

Marketing MopheadFamily Law

consulting with a family law attorney

When something shifts inside your family, everything else shifts with it. Decisions about divorce, child custody, or child support carry long-term consequences that touch your home, finances, and relationship with your children. These are no small details, and they deserve the utmost support and attention. In Utah, the outcome of family law cases often depends on how the family court … Read More

How to Set Up a Trust Fund for Grandchildren in Utah

Jeremy AtwoodEstate Planning

grandchildren with grandparents estate planning in utah

TL;DR: You can set up a trust fund for your grandchildren in Utah to manage and protect assets for their future. A trust lets you control how and when funds are distributed based on your goals. More and more Utah residents are rethinking the traditional route of leaving everything to their children. In many cases, grandparents are choosing to leave … Read More

What Happens to Pets in a Utah Divorce?

Jeremy AtwoodDivorce

The family dog with divorcing parents

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

Common Myths About Probate in Utah – What Families Need to Know

Jeremy AtwoodEstate Planning

family pose for picture after estate planning with attorney

TL;DR: Probate in Utah is often simpler, faster, and less costly than people assume. Having a will does not let you skip it, and it is not just for the wealthy. Most cases resolve through informal probate in 6 to 12 months, and smart planning through trusts or transfer-on-death designations can help your family avoid it altogether. The last thing … Read More