Ogden Divorce Lawyers
Competent Divorce Representation in Ogden & American Fork, UT
Divorce signifies a significant life transition filled with emotional, financial, and legal challenges. Navigating these difficulties can be daunting as you grapple with the end of your marriage and the need to redefine your future.
Much may be at stake in a divorce, depending on your circumstances. The process can be overwhelming when children, high net worth or assets, retirement accounts, and other complex issues are involved.
Separating your life from your spouse’s generally requires professional legal support. Engaging a competent attorney can significantly impact your divorce journey and its outcome. At Stevens & Gailey, PLLC, we can protect your rights, promote a fair process, and help you make critical decisions by understanding their legal implications.
Our team is experienced in Utah divorce, its issues, and the proceedings that resolve them. We put compassion, commitment, and competence on your side while striving to reduce stress and optimize the outcome.
Request a confidential consultation with an Ogden divorce attorney at Stevens & Gailey, PLLC by phone at (801) 761-2124. You can also reach us via our online contact form. Hablamos español.
What Are the Grounds for Divorce in Utah?
Utah grounds for divorce include “no-fault” or “fault-based” as follows.
No-Fault Grounds
This is the most common type of divorce in Utah. It is based on irreconcilable differences, which means that the marriage has broken down to the point where it cannot be repaired. When uncontested, it is the quickest way to divorce.
Fault-Based Grounds
When pursuing a fault-based divorce, you must prove your spouse's misconduct in court. Because of court schedules and hearings, this type of divorce generally takes longer, can be adversarial, and is more expensive.
Fault can include:
- Adultery: One spouse has been unfaithful.
- Cruel treatment: Physical or mental cruelty that makes living together intolerable.
- Desertion: One spouse has abandoned the other for a set period.
- Habitual drunkenness: Consistent alcohol abuse affecting the marriage.
- Felony conviction: One spouse is convicted of a felony.
- Impotence: Inability to consummate the marriage.
- Insanity: One spouse is incurably insane, with specific legal requirements.
Divorce Residency Requirements in Utah
To file for divorce in Utah, at least one spouse must have been a county resident where the petition is filed for a minimum of 90 days. This requirement means that parties must prepare to demonstrate residency before filing so as to fulfill legal obligations.
Divorce Issues That Must Be Resolved in Ogden, UT
The issues that must be resolved to secure a divorce will depend on the circumstances of your case. You and your spouse can agree upon them outside of court through attorney-assisted negotiation, mediation, or by a judge in litigation.
These issues include:
- The division and distribution of marital property and debt
- Child custody and visitation
- Child support
- Spousal support
Driven by integrity, compassion, & commitment Why Choose Stevens & Gailey, PLLC?
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Trusted AdvisorsWhether facing complex legal challenges or high-value disputes, you need a firm you can trust. With extensive experience and a reputation for excellence, we are here to guide you through every step with confidence and expertise.
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Unwavering CommitmentYour success is our priority. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to deliver the best possible outcomes, offering personalized attention and a strategic approach that’s always focused on your needs.
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Tailored StrategiesHandling complex, high-stakes cases requires a deep understanding of financial intricacies. We specialize in managing high-net-worth cases, crafting personalized legal strategies designed to protect your assets and interests.
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Bilingual Legal ExpertiseWe’re proud to offer legal services in both English and Spanish. Our bilingual team ensures that language is never a barrier to receiving top-tier legal representation, providing clear communication for all our clients.
Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce in Ogden
Understanding the differences between contested and uncontested divorces in Utah can help you make informed decisions.
Uncontested Divorce
An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all major issues, such as asset division, child custody, and support arrangements. The process involves filing a joint petition and submitting a settlement agreement to the court for approval. This is typically quicker as no disputes need to be resolved in court.
The mandatory waiting period in Utah is 30 days from filing, but the overall process may take a few weeks to a few months, depending on court schedules. It is generally less expensive due to fewer legal fees and court costs. Many couples can manage with minimal attorney involvement or use mediation to finalize agreements.
Uncontested divorces are often less stressful and contentious, promoting amicable resolution and cooperation. The uncontested process can help couples maintain a civil relationship, which is beneficial if children are involved.
Contested Divorce
A contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot agree on one or more major issues. The process involves court hearings, legal motions, and potentially a trial to resolve disputes. Negotiation, “discovery,” and court appearances take longer. Depending on the case's complexity and court schedules, it can last several months or longer.
The financial burden increases with the complexity and duration of the case. It is often more stressful, leading to increased conflict and emotional strain.
