Divorce in Utah: Answering 5 important questions

A failed marriage can be hard to deal with. If you have decided to file for divorce, you may want to do your homework about the state laws. Utah allows you to file for no-fault divorce. When one spouse does that, the other spouse doesn’t have many options. If you file for no-fault divorce, your spouse can either agree to it, or can file papers contesting the divorce.  To protect your rights and interests, it is wise to get legal advice. You can easily check online to find a reliable Sandy divorce lawyer, who can guide you through the process. Your attorney is also instrumental in sorting issues with your spouse, especially if there are aspects that may create disputes. In this post, we are answering 5 important questions related to divorce in Utah. 

  • Do I need a reason to file for divorce in Utah?

Yes, you do. Even when you decide to file for a no-fault divorce, you have to state “irreconcilable differences” as a reason. There are also other grounds for fault-base divorce, including adultery, willful desertion, willful neglect, chronic drunkenness, and conviction of a felony. 

  • Do I qualify for alimony?

This depends on many factors. The judge will typically consider things like duration of the marriage, fault of either or both parties, if there is a minor child, and the financial status of both parties. Talk to your attorney, so as to get a realistic overview of whether you may qualify for spousal support or alimony. 

  • How are debts settled?

Again, there are several factors here. As a general rule, the spouse who keeps the property pays for the debt. However, if the person getting the property has no money or is disabled, the other spouse may have to deal with the debt. 

  • What if I am not happy with the court order?

In such circumstances, you have the right to appeal in a higher court, which will then review your case. Appeals are usually complicated and must be filed within 30 days. Talk to an attorney to know more. 

  • Can I date before the divorce is finalized?

Ideally, you should avoid a relationship if you are not divorced. This can hurt your case, and can even enrage your spouse, who may not agree to the divorce.  

In your best interests, consult a divorce lawyer in Sandy, to know how you can minimize the hassles in a divorce. 

Comments are closed.