It’s never easy to decide on divorce. This could be an emotionally distressing time, but considering how divorce can impact your life ahead, you have to consider all practical aspects too. Utah is one of the states that allow for both fault-based and no-fault divorce. In a no-fault divorce, it’s enough to state that the couple has irreconcilable differences, and this is the easiest way to finalize the divorce. No matter the circumstances, you may want to consult a Sandy divorce lawyer, to know your options. Here are some quick things to know about filing for divorce in Utah, residency requirements, hiring a lawyer, and more.
Grounds for filing divorce
If you are filing a no-fault divorce, “irreconcilable differences” can be stated as a reason enough. However, not all divorces are that simple. A spouse can file for divorce in Utah on grounds like impotency at time of marriage, adultery, willful desertion, willful neglect, habitual drunkenness, and conviction of a felony. Cruel treatment can be also cited as a reason. An uncontested, no-fault divorce is your best bet at avoiding unwanted legal mess.
Filing for legal separation
Utah allows for legal separation, where the couple separates legally, but that doesn’t mean the end of marriage. The process rather remains the same. The couple must decide (or the court) on important aspects related to the divorce, like alimony, child support, child custody and so on, and once the legal separation is finalized, they can live independent lives. For legal separation, you have to get a ‘decree of separate maintenance’. Both spouses, however, are not free to remarry, like in case of divorce, which marks the end of a marriage.
Do you need a divorce lawyer?
If your spouse has hired a divorce lawyer, you need legal advice too. In any case, and regardless of your circumstances, you have to consider hiring a divorce lawyer, who will ensure that your rights are protected. It’s high time that people realize that divorce is more than just paperwork, and an attorney with knowledge of family and divorce laws can guide on all relevant aspects of the case. If there are issues with your spouse that cannot be resolved, your divorce lawyer can work with their lawyer, to come to an arrangement that’s acceptable to both parties.
Deciding on the terms & conditions of the divorce is easy when you have an attorney by your side.
