No matter how optimistic you are, it can be hard to process the decision to divorce. Warring spouses often don’t agree on key aspects, which often prolongs the divorce process considerably. Talking to an experienced Salt Lake City divorce lawyer can help you understand the legal aspects better. For your help, here is a look at the divorce laws in Utah.
What are the grounds for divorce?
In Utah, you can file for a no-fault divorce, which is based on irreconcilable differences. The judge can also grant you a fault-based divorce if you can prove acceptable grounds. Such grounds include impotence, adultery, willful desertion, willful neglect, alcohol addiction, and felony. If you and your spouse can agree on the important issues, getting divorced would be easier.
What are the residency requirements for divorce in Utah?
To file for divorce in the state, either spouse should be a resident of Utah and must have lived in the concerned county for at least three months before initiating the proceedings.
What would happen to marital properties?
The divorce laws in Utah allow for equitable distribution of marital properties. The word ‘equitable’ is worth noting here, as it may not be a 50-50 split.
How long does it take to get divorced?
The waiting period in Utah is 90 days. You can expect to get divorced within months from the day of your divorce filing, provided you and your spouse have sorted all key matters and agree on important decisions. It is not unusual for couples to appear before a judge during Utah divorce proceedings. However, in such circumstances, you don’t have to say much as your lawyer would speak on your behalf.
Should you hire an attorney for a no-fault Utah divorce?
Divorce is much more than just ending the marriage. You would need to decide on aspects like alimony, child support, child custody, and distribution of marital properties. Working with a divorce lawyer helps you understand your rights and interests better. Your lawyer can ensure that you don’t settle for less and will take care of the extensive paperwork involved. Attorneys are also skilled negotiators and mediators and can help minimize friction with your spouse. However, hiring a lawyer is not mandatory in Utah to file for divorce.
Find top law firms in Salt Lake City online and ask for an appointment. Don’t shy away from discussing the facts of your divorce in detail when meeting a lawyer.
