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10 Things to Know About Divorce in Utah

Category: Family Law

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  1. Residency Requirements: To file for divorce in Utah, either spouse must have lived in a single county for at least three months [7].
  2. Grounds for Divorce: Utah is a no-fault divorce state, with irreconcilable differences being the primary ground [8].
  3. Division of Property: Utah follows equitable distribution laws, meaning assets and debts are divided fairly, but not necessarily equally [9].
  4. Child Custody: Determined based on the best interests of the child, considering factors like parental fitness and the child’s wishes [7].
  5. Child Support: Calculated using the Utah Child Support Guidelines, which consider both parents’ incomes and the needs of the child [8].
  6. Alimony: Also known as spousal support, it may be awarded based on factors like the length of the marriage and the financial situation of each spouse [9].
  7. Divorce Education: Utah requires parents to attend divorce education and orientation classes if they have minor children [7].
  8. Temporary Orders: Courts can issue temporary orders for child custody, support, and property division while the divorce is pending [8].
  9. Final Decree: The divorce is not final until the judge signs the Final Decree of Dissolution of Marriage [9].
  10. Legal Resources: Utah courts offer various resources, including self-help centers and legal aid for those who need assistance [7].