707 24th Street, Ste 1-F Ogden, Utah 84401

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

Utah courts generally prefer joint custody arrangements, but sole custody may be awarded if it is in the child’s best interest.

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.

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

Learn about the legal factors judges consider when awarding custody in Utah divorce and separation cases.

Understanding Parenting Plans in Joint Custody Cases

A well-structured parenting plan is key to a successful co-parenting arrangement. This blog outlines what should be included and how to create one.

Can Child Custody Be Modified in Utah?

Life circumstances change, and custody orders may need to be adjusted. This blog explains how and when modifications can be requested.
  • Jonathan 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 Avatar Michelle Houtz
    March 23, 2024
  • Our journey began shortly after I returned from the last deployment of my career. I learn that my children had been moved across the country and I was being told I could only see them on/around summer break and winter breaks. This was alarming given that I was court ordered the majority custody of my children. After one hearing with Porter Law Firm my children were returned into my custody. Unfortunately, what seemed to be a simple enforcement issue, became a bit of a living nightmare. I started working initially with Cassidy, who is a really amazing and caring person, but shortly thereafter worked mostly with Stephanie and Jon directly. Stephanie has been nothing short of phenomenal, there have been too many instances in which I have needed her and Jon's expert advice, and albeit this moderately simple enforcement case became quite complex in the blink of an eye. With that being said, given the complexity, Stephanie and Jon are great at providing quick and accurate answers to the many questions I have had. We are nearing what I hope to be the conclusion of this ordeal and regardless of the outcome, I have felt that they have been there for me when I needed them the most. To be a little more descriptive, there have been many conversations derived by a lot of emotions, (and admittedly I can be a bit long winded) yet each time I am in contact with them it really feels like they are hearing me as more than that of a client, but as a person. While it has been difficult to process that sometimes things take longer than what I would hope they did, I can say that after working with Porter Law-Firm for well over a year, I am grateful for all they have done to help!

    Michael Carfaro Avatar Michael Carfaro
    August 23, 2024
  • Jonathon helped my husband and I with a gestational agreement as we embark on the journey of surrogacy. He was kind and responded quickly to our questions. His staff members were supportive and took the time to answer all questions thoroughly. Jonathan was able to get our agreement validated in court and the judge praised how well the agreement was prepared. My husband and I recommend Jonathan without any reservation.

    Kristen Porter Avatar Kristen Porter
    March 23, 2024
  • Jonathan helped my brother in a custody case, he was fair, kind, and caring throughout the process. Jonathan and his team were so great to work with.

    Sydnee Hammer Avatar Sydnee Hammer
    July 23, 2024
  • Jonathan 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 Avatar Amber McFee
    June 23, 2024
  • Like some of us we find ourselves needing assistance when dealing with family obstacles. I fortunately found Jonathon Porter and couldn’t be more happy with the results we have obtained. We have an amazing line of communication and full transparency of what could be the possible outcomes. I couldn’t ask for a better attorney for my family’s situation. He listens and makes sure your voice is heard.

    Christoph Samek Avatar Christoph Samek
    February 23, 2025
  • Jonathan and his team are amazing. They helped me with my case. They were very professional and when I had a question they were quick to respond. I would definitely recommend them

    Eder Nogueron Avatar Eder Nogueron
    July 23, 2024
  • 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 Avatar Amanda Jane
    March 23, 2024
  • Jonathan 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 Avatar Dustin Porter
    March 23, 2024
  • I am very grateful for Jonathan Porter and the wonderful team at Porter law firm. Everyone I've had the pleasure to work with has been extremely helpful, empathetic, and informative every step of the way. I would certainly recommend this firm 100 times over.

    michael wood Avatar michael wood
    March 23, 2024

Take the Next Step - Contact Porter Law Firm Today

Child custody disputes can be emotional and legally complex. At Porter Law Firm, we are committed to helping parents protect their rights and their children’s best interests. Whether you are negotiating custody, modifying an existing order, or dealing with a dispute, our experienced attorneys are here to help.