Posts by Dale Ellsworth
Adjustment of Child Support in Utah: Understanding the Law and Your Options
As a Utah family law attorney at Ellsworth Law Firm, I often assist parents navigating the complexities of child support. Whether you’re seeking an adjustment to a current order or simply exploring your options, understanding the legal framework is essential. This post breaks down Utah’s statute on modifying child support orders, focusing on adjustments made…
Read MoreNew Year, New Goals: Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Update or Start Your Estate Plan
The start of a new year brings fresh opportunities to focus on what matters most—your family, your assets, and your future. As a Utah estate planning attorney at Ellsworth Law Firm, I encourage you to make estate planning a priority this year. Whether you need to amend existing documents or create a new estate plan,…
Read MoreUsing Temporary Orders as Leverage in Mediation: A Guide for Utah Family Law Cases
Temporary orders play a pivotal role in many family law cases, helping to set interim guidelines on critical issues such as custody, support, and property use. At Ellsworth Law Firm, we understand how strategically obtained temporary orders can also be valuable leverage in mediation, guiding negotiations and encouraging fair settlements. Here’s how temporary orders can…
Read MoreThe Importance of In re Adoption of K.R.S. to Utah Adoptions
The Utah Court of Appeals recently addressed a significant issue in In re Adoption of K.R.S., 2024 UT App 165, that could impact the legal process in adoption cases statewide. This case emphasizes the procedural nuances surrounding parental rights termination orders and their appealability in adoption proceedings. The Case Background In K.R.S., the biological father (Father) appealed…
Read MoreUnderstanding Temporary Orders in a Utah Family Law Case
When navigating a family law case in Utah, understanding the purpose and process of temporary orders can be crucial. Temporary orders provide interim relief and guidelines for parties until a final resolution is reached. At Ellsworth Law Firm, we help our clients secure the temporary relief they need to protect their interests and maintain stability…
Read MoreWhat is a Transfer on Death Deed?
A Transfer on Death Deed (TOD Deed) is a legal document that allows property owners to pass real estate directly to a designated beneficiary upon their death, without the need for probate. This tool can be particularly useful for estate planning, as it simplifies the process of transferring property to loved ones and helps avoid…
Read MoreUnderstanding the Spousal Needs Standard for Medicaid in Utah
When one spouse needs long-term care and the other remains in the community, many families worry about losing their savings or home to pay for care. Fortunately, Medicaid provides protections for the community spouse (the spouse not in a care facility) through the Spousal Needs Standard. This set of rules ensures that the community spouse…
Read MoreCan You Own a Home and Still Qualify for Medicaid in Utah?
One of the most common concerns when applying for Medicaid is whether owning a home will disqualify you from receiving benefits, especially when it comes to long-term care. The good news is that under Utah’s Medicaid rules, you can own a home and still qualify for Medicaid, provided certain conditions are met. Below, we explain…
Read MoreThe Importance of Financial Declarations in Utah Family Law Cases
When navigating family law matters such as divorce, child custody, and child support, both parties are required to provide transparent financial information. This is done through a process known as completing a “Financial Declaration.” These declarations play a critical role in ensuring that courts can make informed decisions regarding property division, alimony, and child support.…
Read MoreUnderstanding the Legal Framework of Premarital Agreements in Utah
At Ellsworth Law Firm in Lehi, Utah, we understand that premarital agreements, often referred to as prenuptial agreements, play a critical role in protecting the financial interests of both parties entering into a marriage. These agreements help establish clear expectations regarding property division, spousal support, and other financial matters in the event of a divorce.…
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