Divorce and Annulment Attorney in Ogden, Utah
Divorce Annulments in Utah
A divorce and an annulment both end a marriage, but they are legally distinct. While divorce dissolves a valid marriage, an annulment declares that the marriage was never legally valid to begin with. In Utah, annulments are granted only in specific circumstances, requiring proof that the marriage was legally flawed from the start.
At Porter Law Firm, we assist clients in determining whether they qualify for an annulment and guide them through the legal process to protect their rights.


Grounds for Annulment in Utah
Utah courts only grant annulments under specific legal conditions, including:
- Fraud or Misrepresentation – If one spouse deceived the other about an essential aspect of the marriage (e.g., hiding a criminal record, infertility, or financial status).
- Bigamy – If one spouse was already legally married to another person at the time of the marriage.
- Underage Marriage Without Consent – If one or both spouses were under 18 and did not have legal parental or court approval.
- Incestuous Marriage – If the spouses are closely related by blood, the marriage is automatically void.
- Lack of Capacity – If a spouse was under the influence of drugs or alcohol or lacked the mental capacity to consent to the marriage.
- Force or Duress – If a spouse was coerced into the marriage against their will.
If none of these conditions apply, the couple will need to pursue a traditional divorce instead of an annulment.
Effects of an Annulment
An annulment voids the marriage, meaning it is treated as if it never legally existed. However, courts can still address important issues, such as:
- Child Custody and Support – If children were born during the marriage, the court will establish custody, support, and visitation agreements.
- Property Division – Courts may divide assets and debts fairly, similar to a divorce, if necessary.
- Alimony – Since an annulment erases the marriage, alimony is generally not awarded unless the court determines otherwise.

FAQs
How is an annulment different from a divorce?
An annulment declares that the marriage was never legally valid, while a divorce ends a legally recognized marriage.
How long do I have to file for an annulment in Utah?
There is no strict time limit, but the sooner you file, the better, as delays can make it harder to prove legal grounds.
Can an annulment affect child custody?
No, child custody and support are handled the same way as in a divorce to protect the child’s rights and well-being.
Learn from the Experts
Our Blog
Do You Qualify for an Annulment in Utah? Understanding the Legal Requirements
Annulment vs. Divorce: What’s the Difference and Which One is Right for You?
What Happens to Children and Property After an Annulment?
I had a consultation here today because I wanted to know what I'd need to do if I filed for divorce. They were very knowledgeable and very caring. I was a crying mess and they showed compassion and empathy and I left feeling more confident in myself. Thank you! ❤️
Jen Lea
February 23, 2025Jonathan & Stephanie have been so AMAZINGLY good to me & my family. So kind hearted & very patient, their communication is great. Very kindhearted & gets the business done. I am truly honored. THANK YOU!
Gina Barnes
November 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 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, 2024Jonathan was fantastic to work with, he was professional, and so quick responding to any questions that I had!!! Thank you for everything you literally changed my life!!!!!
jared love
March 23, 2024Jonathan 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, 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, 2024Our 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
August 23, 2024Very helpful and patient really help me through a hard time
Austin Gambles
March 23, 2024Jonathan Porter is very caring in how he handles a case. He understands what you are going through while validating your feelings on the matter. I highly recommend going through Porter Law Firm.
Sabrina Carver
October 23, 2024