Utah courts decide divorce outcomes using no-fault grounds like irreconcilable differences, with a mandatory 30-day waiting period and equitable distribution for property and support.​
Child Custody Factors
Courts prioritize the child’s best interests, evaluating parental fitness, caregiving history, child stability, and co-parenting ability, often favoring joint custody absent harm. A guardian ad litem may investigate, and relocations over 100 miles require court approval under Utah Code §30-3-37. Child support follows income-shares guidelines, typically 20-25% of net income per child.​
Alimony Determinations
Alimony considers marriage length, recipient need, payer ability, standard of living, and fault if alleged, generally lasting no longer than the marriage or need period. Courts apply a formula like one-third of payer’s income minus child support, modifiable for substantial changes; cohabitation terminates awards after one year.​
Property Division Process
Marital property divides equitably based on contributions, needs, and dissipation, keeping premarital assets separate; debts allocate similarly with creditor notifications. Residency requires three months in Utah and county; uncontested cases resolve faster via mediation, while contested ones involve trials.
SOURCES
[1](https://quackenbushlegal.com/divorce-in-utah-comprehensive-guide-to-the-utah-divorce-process-and-requirements/)
[2](https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title81/Chapter4/C81-4_2024090120240501.pdf)
[3](https://www.utahlegalservices.org/node/35/divorce)
[4](https://www.utcourts.gov/en/self-help/case-categories/family/divorce.html)
[5](https://www.davismiles.com/lawyer-speak/10-things-to-know-about-divorce-in-utah/)
