Child Custody Attorney Serving Ogden Utah
Child Custody in Utah
Child custody is one of the most important aspects of any divorce or separation, as it directly impacts a child’s well-being and future. In Utah, courts prioritize the best interests of the child when determining custody arrangements, considering factors such as parental stability, the child’s needs, and each parent’s ability to provide a supportive environment.
At Porter Law Firm, we help parents navigate the custody process to protect their parental rights and create arrangements that best support their children’s growth and development.
Types of Custody in Utah
- Legal Custody – Determines which parent has the authority to make major decisions regarding the child’s education, healthcare, and overall welfare. Courts generally favor joint legal custody, allowing both parents to participate in decision-making.
- Physical Custody – Establishes where the child primarily resides. Custody may be awarded as:
- Sole Physical Custody – The child lives with one parent, and the other parent may have visitation.
- Joint Physical Custody – The child spends significant time with both parents.
- Parenting Plans – If parents share custody, they must develop a detailed parenting plan outlining schedules, decision-making responsibilities, and how disputes will be handled.
Factors That Influence Custody Decisions
The court considers several factors to determine custody, including:
- The child’s relationship with each parent
- Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home environment
- The child’s preference (if they are old enough to express a reasonable choice)
- Any history of domestic violence, abuse, or substance abuse
- Each parent’s willingness to cooperate and encourage a relationship with the other parent
FAQs
Do Utah courts prefer joint or sole custody?
Utah courts generally prefer joint custody arrangements, but sole custody may be awarded if it is in the child’s best interest.
Can custody orders be modified?
Yes, custody can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as relocation, a parent’s inability to provide care, or a change in the child’s needs.
At what age can a child decide which parent to live with?
A child’s preference may be considered once they reach age 14, but the court ultimately decides based on the child’s best interests.
Learn from the Experts
Our Blog
How Utah Courts Determine Child Custody
Understanding Parenting Plans in Joint Custody Cases
Can Child Custody Be Modified in Utah?
Jonathan and his paralegal Cassidy were very helpful to me in my post divorce legal proceedings. They were knowledgeable, responsive, and fought hard for me. I highly recommend Jonathan.
Amanda Jane
March 23, 2024Divorce is never a pleasant experience but the team at Porter Law made it a lot more bearable. I felt like they were supportive, informative and had mine and my kids best interest at heart. They were great to work with and I could not have gotten through this without their patience and kindness. They were always willing to answer my many questions and were very thorough, detailed and honest.
Nicole Marshall
March 23, 2024I recently needed some help with a court issue. Jonathan was immediate and got all my questions answered and walked me through everything I needed. He he very kind, and professional. I recommend him and will use his services again.
Melissa Watkins
May 23, 2024Jonathan handled my divorce with compassion and respect. I had a unique situation and he helped me out in a huge way. Cassidy was very helpful and answered all my questions. I would definitely recommend his services.
yvette lankford
August 23, 2024Everyone in the office were so kind and helpful during my divorce. They are all very compassionate and competent and made the divorce process and court appearances easier and understandable.
Brandallyn Potter
March 23, 2024Having to Use a Lawyer is not always my Favorite thing to do, However Porter Law Firm hands down made everything so much less stressful!, Life long Customer here!!
Ryan Westwood
March 23, 2024Porter is a great attorney! I felt listened to and he always gave me options to get to where I wanted to go. He was professional and responsive. I highly recommend him.
jessica bendezu quispe
December 23, 2024Jonathan is one of the best family law attorneys in Utah. He's honest, kind, and cares about his clients. It's a privilege to work with him as a fellow an attorney.
Amber McFee
June 23, 2024Jon was very professional and handle my sensitive custody case. He got a good out come and I was very pleased with how well he handled all the punches my exs lawyer through out. I would recommend Jon over and over again. We have now been using him for 4 almost 5 years for my custody stuff and now my husband. I will always recommend him.
Tiena Hockin
March 23, 2024Jonathan Porter and his paralegal Cassidy are fantastic. They walked me through a messy divorce process and I felt had mine and my kids best interests at heart. I recommend them to anyone who needs a divorce attorney but especially if you have kid’s involved.
Shaylee Perez
March 23, 2024
