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 Cassidy were amazing to work with! Both are extremely professional and kind. I truly felt like they cared about me as more than just their client. I can't begin to express how grateful I am for their guidance in a difficult point in my life. I hope to never go through this process again, but if it were to happen, there is no one else I would trust. HIGHLY recommend!
Allison Shaffer
September 23, 2024Jonathan 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, 2024Jonathan and his staff at Porter law firm are amazing! I was going through one of the most terrifying and uncertain times in my life. I came in with no knowledge of how this worked feeling embarrassed and ashamed. He never once made me feel like I wasn’t Deserving and he fought for me to the very end! I always felt safe and secure at a time I was most vulnerable!! Thank you for everything !
Michelle Houtz
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, 2024Jonathan and Cassidy are so amazing. They helped me out so much going through my divorce. I went through a divorce for almost 6 years. I used 2 previous lawyers that were terrible and I wish I hadn't ever used. I found Porter Law Firm and they were so awesome to work with. They were able to navigate my case and get it completely done where others couldn't come close. I was always able to reach someone about issues or questions I needed answers to. They respond super quickly which was great because things change from day to day specially in a messy divorce. I recommend Porter Law Firm to everyone for any of your Law needs.
Dustin Porter
March 23, 2024Jonathan and cassidy helped me throught out my case and worked well with me with payment. Def recommend appreciate the help guys !
Brian LS
July 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, 2024I found Jonathan and his paralegal Cassidy while needing help correcting custody issues with my children. They both stepped into a situation that for me has been emotionally exhausting and they have been nothing more than amazing. They are both compassionate and caring while understanding the need for legal fairness and action. They have been very patient when I have anxiously reached out for reassurance or when I've asked a thousand questions. I was very impressed by the professional and respectful way they interacted with the mother of my children despite knowing the turbulent history of things. I have also been impressed by their concern for my children. Needing a lawyer is always difficult, but Jonathan and Cassidy have been an incredible asset and their help has been invaluable.
Ryan Uhrey
March 23, 2024I highly recommend Jonathan Porter and his team, Cassidy and Stephanie to everyone who unfortunately see’s themselves faced with Divorce or Child Custody issues. My Fiancé Has been going through a very complex divorce/custody battle since 2021. We previously hired 2 other attorneys in the area that we regret greatly. Jon has been amazing and truly cares about his clients! He will absolutely fight for you and your rights as a parent.
Seana Grattan
April 23, 2024Divorce case - I was in a hard spot with a firm that wasn't advocating for me and had already taken a huge chunk of my savings and equity from selling my marital home. I was heartbroken. I sent out a handful of new "contact us online" to different firms in Utah, and Jonathon Porter reached out to me almost instantly and we set up an in-person meeting. Less than a month after retaining Porter Law I already feel I am in better hands. I see the holes that were left open by my previous firm, and where Porter Law is picking up the pieces. They have been more proactive than the large firm I signed with from May - September. I wish I would have started here and saved my heartache and pocketbook from the beginning. If you are in a similar position, looking for new representation I highly suggest speaking with Jonathon. Even though my case is not complete, I truly look forward to working with Porter Law to until we are able to close this chapter. 12/26/2024 - UPDATE: From October when I first met with Porter Law I asked if we could get this done by the holidays and today I open up my email to see my divorce is FINAL and everything has concluded. I am so grateful to Porter Law and their diligence and communication that they had with me. My case wasn't rocket science, but felt like so from the other party. Jonathon and his staff kept things upbeat and positive and they got it done! Thank you Porter Law, you truly were a blessing during this time and I really wish I would have found you sooner!
Kindel P
January 23, 2025
