Divorce
Skilled Divorce Attorney Serving the Ogden, UT Area
Divorce is never easy. Choosing to separate after months, years, or even decades together is emotionally overwhelming and legally complex. The divorce attorneys serving the Ogden, UT area at Richards & Richards Law Firm, PLLC, provide thoughtful legal advice tailored to your situation. Our local lawyers, Kevin and Jaime Richards, have been members of the community for decades, providing invaluable understanding of Utah’s laws and court systems. They’ll advocate for you and fight for what you deserve. For the best chance of a fair settlement, contact our team to schedule a legal consultation.
Experienced Divorce Attorney for All Situations
Every couple’s situation is unique, and every circumstance for divorce is different. That’s why at Richards & Richards Law Firm, PLLC, our divorce lawyers personalize a legal strategy for you. Our experienced attorneys have represented clients in all types of proceedings, preparing us for any challenge you may face during your divorce.
- Contested Divorce – When couples cannot agree on key issues like property, child custody, or spousal support, having an experienced divorce attorney to guide you is critical.
- Uncontested Divorce – While uncontested divorces provide a less tense process in which the couple mutually agrees on essential issues, legal guidance ensures all divorce details are handled correctly.
- Divorce Mediation – Mediation allows the two parties to work through their differences with the assistance of a neutral third party.
- High Asset Divorce – Couples with complex financial portfolios require specialized handling during divorce proceedings. We can assess your assets and investments to ensure equitable distribution.
- Military Divorce – Service members and their spouses face unique legal considerations. Our divorce attorneys understand state and federal military regulations to ensure a smooth transition.
- Divorce Decree Enforcement – Court orders don’t always end legal involvement in divorce cases. Failure to comply with a court order may require additional action to protect you.
- Divorce Modifications – New circumstances, such as employment changes, relocation, or childcare needs, may require modification to an existing divorce court order.
- Post-Divorce Estate Planning – Failing to update your estate plan after a divorce can lead to unintended consequences. We revise your estate plan to ensure it aligns with your new goals.
What Does Utah Law Say About Divorce?
Divorce in Utah is regulated by Utah Code Section 30-3-1. You or your spouse must reside in a single county in Utah for at least three months before filing for divorce. Irreconcilable differences are considered grounds for divorce, along with several other reasons.
What Paperwork Is Needed for a Divorce in Utah?
After a spouse moves forward to end a marriage legally, they must file a petition for divorce with the court in the county where they live. The petition must cover essential issues related to the marriage, such as how the property and assets will be divided, child custody and support, and alimony. The other spouse is served with a summons notifying them of the petition, and they must respond within a specific time. It’s in your best interests to work closely with a lawyer for divorce proceedings since the process and paperwork can be complex.
What Are Grounds for Divorce in Ogden, Utah?
Utah allows couples to file based on irreconcilable differences instead of requiring one spouse to prove the other person is liable for the marriage failing. Other possible grounds for divorce include, but are not limited to, adultery, desertion, habitual drunkenness, and felony conviction.
How Can a Spouse Return to Their Previous Name?
The first step in returning to a previous name is to include that request in the petition. After the divorce is finalized, the spouse can change their name to what it was before the marriage.
When to Get a Divorce
Every couple is different, and their reason for divorce can vary significantly. Financial disagreements, different parenting philosophies, or physical or mental abuse are common reasons people get divorced. Couples may also seek a divorce because they no longer feel a connection to each other.
How to Prepare for Divorce
Proper preparation can ensure smooth divorce proceedings and make you feel more comfortable with the decision to move forward. Gather tax returns, bank statements, investment accounts, and other financial paperwork. Track your involvement in your children’s daily activities and document any examples of substance or domestic abuse, as this can impact custody arrangements. Research local housing and, if you’re unemployed, begin searching for employment opportunities.
Does It Matter Who Files First for Divorce?
There are a few procedural advantages to being the initiator. Filing first allows you to present your version of events initially. However, Utah’s no-fault divorce system means that grounds for divorce don’t typically affect property division. The filing party also determines the jurisdiction where the case will be heard.
Where to File for Divorce
Utah law requires you or your spouse to be a state resident for at least three months before filing.
How to Tell Your Husband or Wife You Want a Divorce
Initiating a divorce conversation requires careful consideration. It’s best to be compassionate but direct about your intentions and explain your decision calmly without assigning blame. If you’re concerned about your spouse’s reaction, consider having someone you trust nearby.
How to File for Divorce
Utah divorce proceedings begin with filing a petition that outlines the grounds for divorce and your requests regarding property division, child custody, and support. The petition must be served on your spouse, who has a specific response period.
What Is a No-Fault Divorce?
Utah recognizes no-fault divorce, meaning you don’t need to prove wrongdoing by your spouse. Instead, you can cite “irreconcilable differences” as grounds for divorce, acknowledging that the marriage cannot continue despite good-faith efforts to reconcile. However, domestic abuse or financial misconduct can still influence custody and property decisions.
How Long Does a Divorce Take?
There is a 90-day waiting period from when divorce papers are served before they can be finalized. However, this period is often much longer due to negotiations. Having an experienced attorney by your side is critical to help streamline the process so you can begin the next chapter of your life.
Our Divorce Attorney Can Help Protect Your Future
Divorce represents the end of your marriage and the beginning of something new, making it a challenging experience for many, even if they are confident about their decision. At Richards & Richards Law Firm, PLLC, we provide thoughtful and compassionate legal counsel for clients throughout the Ogden, UT area. Our local team is experienced in mediation and court proceedings, so regardless of the details of your case, you can expect professional and thoughtful legal expertise. Contact our team today to get started with a legal consultation.