What is a Putative Father
At Christensen Law, we understand the complexities of family law. We specialize in guiding individuals and families through adoption and paternity cases in Utah. We focus on equipping our clients with the tools they need to navigate these sensitive issues. Definition of a Putative Father A putative father is a man who may biologically be […]
Modifying a Custody Order
Can a custody order be modified Sometimes life changes, and a custody order that once worked well may no longer fit your family’s needs. In Utah, custody orders are not set in stone. Modifications are possible, but they require specific circumstances and legal steps to ensure the best interests of the child are prioritized. When […]
Utah Guardianship Appeals
How to Challenge a Decision When a guardianship decision affects your family or loved ones, and you believe the ruling was unjust or legally flawed, you don’t have to accept it at face value. You have the right to seek an appeal. Understanding when and why you can file such an appeal is the first […]
Are Parents Responsible for Their Children’s Criminal Behavior?
When a child gets involved in criminal activity, many parents wonder: Am I legally responsible for my child’s actions? While children are typically held accountable for their behavior, parents may sometimes face legal or financial consequences, especially when the crime results in harm to others. Understanding Parental Responsibility Parents play a key role in shaping […]
Can I Appeal to Get My Parental Rights Back?
Losing parental rights can be one of the most heartbreaking and life-altering experiences for any parent. When judges decide to terminate rights, it means that the legal bond between a parent and child is permanently severed. In certain circumstances, it may be possible to appeal this decision and fight to overturn the termination of those […]
What are a Father’s Rights During a Divorce
Divorce is a challenging ordeal that affects every member of a family, but fathers may feel anxious about their rights and roles moving forward. We understand these concerns, and we’re here to clarify and advocate for your rights as a father. Understanding Your Legal Rights Fathers have equal rights to mothers under Utah law when […]
Recordings of Children
Can Recordings of Children Be Used as Evidence in Court? As a firm specializing in family law, our practice frequently deals with cases involving children, which can range from divorce and custody disputes to matters involving child support and adoption. These cases cause emotions to run high, and it is not uncommon for our clients […]
Essential Role of Guardian ad Litem
“It is the Guardian ad Litem’s duty to stand in the shoes of the child and to weigh the factors as the child would weigh them if his judgment were mature and he was not of tender years.” – J.W.F v. Schoolcraft, 763 P.2d 1217, 1222 (Utah Ct. App. 1988) Understanding the Role of a […]
Can An Absent Father Lose Parental Rights in Utah?
Understanding Child Abandonment Child abandonment is an incredibly sensitive and complex subject for parents. The thought of parting with their cherished children is unimaginable for most. Nonetheless, within the realm of the legal world, child abandonment often arises as a contentious matter in divorce cases and custody disputes. We frequently hear from concerned parents who […]