What Does “Best Interest of the Child” Actually Mean in Utah?

best interest of the child

When Utah courts make decisions about child custody, the guiding principle is always the “best interest of the child.” But what does that really mean, and how does it affect your custody case?  What Is the “Best Interest of the Child” Standard?  In Utah, family courts are legally required to prioritize the child’s overall well-being […]

What is Considered an Unfit Parent in Utah?  

unfit parent in utah

When parents separate or divorce, one of the most difficult issues to resolve is child custody. In some cases, a parent may be concerned that the other is unfit to care for the child safely. But what does the law actually consider an “unfit parent” in Utah?  Legal Definition of an Unfit Parent  In Utah, […]

If My Ex Is Trying to Limit My Parental Rights in Utah, How Can I Fight Back Legally?

Protecting Parental Rights in Utah

Understanding Your Parental Rights in Utah  Divorce and custody disputes can be emotionally and legally challenging—especially if your ex is trying to limit your parental rights. Whether they’re denying you court-ordered visitation, making false accusations, or attempting to modify custody unfairly, it’s critical to understand your legal rights and how to fight back.  In Utah, […]

How to Get Emergency Custody in Utah – Steps to Take in Urgent Situations 

When a child is in danger, time is of the essence. Fortunately, Utah law offers several legal tools that can help secure emergency custody or protect a child from harm if the situation is urgent but does not rise to the level of calling 911 or otherwise involving law enforcement. The best option will depend […]

Can You Get a Divorce Without Going to Court in Utah?

Divorce Without Court

Going through a divorce doesn’t always mean standing before a judge in a courtroom battle. In Utah, couples have several options to dissolve their marriage without the stress and expense of litigation. Mediation, collaborative divorce, and uncontested divorce processes can help spouses reach agreements outside of court while still ensuring a legally valid divorce.  If […]

What Are the Deadlines for Filing an Appeal in Utah?

Filing an Appeal in Utah

Understanding the Appeals Process in Utah  Filing an appeal is your opportunity to challenge a court decision that you believe was incorrect due to legal error. However, strict deadlines apply, and missing these deadlines can prevent you from pursuing your case further. This post will explain everything you need to know about filing an appeal […]

Alienation of Affection in Utah 

alienation of affection in utah

Alienation of affection is a legal claim that allows a spouse to sue a third party for intentionally interfering in their marriage and causing the loss of love and companionship. Unlike many states that have abolished this law, Utah still recognizes alienation of affection claims, making it one of the few states where this cause […]

Equitable Division in Utah Divorce

equitable division in Utah divorce

Divorce can be complex under any circumstances, but when significant wealth and assets are at stake, the process becomes even more intricate. In Utah, divorcing spouses are subject to equitable division of marital property—a legal principle that aims to distribute assets in a fair, though not necessarily equal, manner. Below, we break down how equitable […]

What is a Putative Father? 

what is a putative father

At Christensen Law, we understand the complexities of family law and specialize in guiding individuals and families through adoption and paternity cases in Utah. While we do not offer adoption matching services, we focus on equipping our clients with the tools they need to navigate these sensitive issues.  Definition of a Putative Father  A putative […]