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At Porter Law Firm, we believe that informed clients make confident decisions. Our blog is filled with helpful insights, legal updates, and practical guidance on the issues that matter most to families throughout Utah. Whether you're navigating divorce, custody, or financial planning, you'll find clarity here.
Summertime Custody Swaps: What Utah Parents Need to Know Before School’s Out
Summer brings longer days, looser routines, and the promise of family memories, but for co-parents navigating custody schedules, it can also bring conflict, confusion, and last-minute stress. Whether you are planning a vacation, scheduling summer camp, or simply shifting into a different time-sharing routine, it is essential to get ahead of potential issues before school is out. Jon Porter has seen the pattern too many times to count. One parent books a trip that the other parent does not know about. Camp schedules clash with custody exchanges. Teenagers want more
Mother’s Day After Divorce: Helping Kids Celebrate Without Conflict
For kids, Mother’s Day should be simple, a time to show love, give a homemade card, and maybe enjoy a pancake breakfast. But for children navigating life after divorce, this day can be emotionally complicated. Whose house will they go to? What if one parent feels excluded? What if the other parent refuses to acknowledge the holiday at all? These are the kinds of questions Jon Porter helps families navigate every day. As a seasoned Utah family law attorney focused on custody, Jon knows that holidays are rarely “just another
Alimony in Utah and How It Is Calculated
Alimony, also known as spousal support, is often a key factor in Utah divorce cases. It is designed to help a lower-earning spouse maintain financial stability after the marriage ends. Whether you are seeking alimony or may be required to pay it, understanding how Utah courts calculate alimony can help you prepare for the legal process and ensure a fair outcome. How Courts Determine Alimony in Utah Utah courts evaluate several factors when determining whether alimony should be awarded, how much should be paid, and for how long. Unlike child
How Child Custody Is Determined in Uta
Child custody is one of the most important and emotional aspects of any divorce or separation. In Utah, courts prioritize the best interests of the child when making custody decisions. Whether you are seeking custody, modifying an existing arrangement, or trying to understand your rights as a parent, knowing how Utah courts determine custody can help you prepare for the legal process. Types of Custody in Utah Utah recognizes two main types of custody: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody refers to a parent’s right to make important decisions
Understanding the Utah Divorce Process
Going through a divorce can be an emotional and challenging experience. Understanding the divorce process in Utah can help you prepare for what lies ahead and ensure that your legal rights are protected. Whether your divorce is contested or uncontested, knowing the steps involved can make the transition smoother and help you make informed decisions about your future. Filing for Divorce in Utah The first step in the divorce process is filing a petition for divorce. One spouse, known as the petitioner, must file the necessary paperwork with the district
How Estate Planning Can Protect Your Family From Probate and Legal Battles
One of the biggest concerns families face after the loss of a loved one is navigating probate and potential legal disputes. Without a proper estate plan, your assets could be subject to lengthy court proceedings, unexpected taxes, and conflicts among heirs. Proper estate planning ensures that your wishes are honored while protecting your family from unnecessary stress. Probate is the legal process of distributing a deceased person’s estate. It can take months or even years to complete and often comes with high legal costs. By creating a trust, naming beneficiaries,