Deciding to end your marriage is never going to be easy. From the financial implications of the divorce to aspects like child custody, alimony, and distribution of joint assets, a bunch of things needs your attention. Of course, the decision itself will cause emotional turmoil that can be hard to deal with. Hiring a Lehi divorce lawyer can help you tide through the process, and for your help, here are five things worth knowing about divorces in Utah.
Utah allows for both fault-based and no-fault divorces
You can file for divorce in Utah based on irreconcilable differences alone, and for that, the consent of your spouse is not necessary. There are also many grounds for fault-based divorces, including impotency, adultery, willful desertion, willful neglect, and alcohol abuse. If your spouse was convicted of a felony after the marriage, that could be a ground for divorce too. Incurable insanity and cruelty are other grounds for fault-based divorces.
Utah has residency requirements
To file for divorce in Utah, one spouse (at the least) must have lived here for three months or more. If you don’t understand the residency requirements, talk to an attorney, and they can guide you on the key aspects that could affect your situation.
Utah allows for equitable distribution of assets
When it comes to marital assets, Utah allows for equitable distribution, which doesn’t mean equal but just to both spouses. Things like income and if the spouses had pre-marital assets are aspects that would be considered.
Utah courts may ask parties to go for marital counseling
If either party requests the same, the court may ask the couple to go for marital counseling, which is more like a step to see if the marriage can be saved. This may delay your divorce, but at the same time, it allows you the room to rethink your decision.
Utah laws require couples to have separate attorneys
One attorney cannot represent you and your spouse in the divorce as per the laws in Utah. Because there is always a possible conflict of interest, the same attorney may not do their best. No matter what situation you are in, get an attorney ready to fight for your rights.
You will have to wait for at least 90 days to get divorced in Utah. That’s the minimum time required to get divorced in Utah. Call a lawyer to understand your legal options and interests.
