Posts by Dale Ellsworth
Understanding Premarital Agreements: What Makes Them Enforceable in Utah?
At Ellsworth Law Firm in Lehi, Utah, we often counsel clients on the importance and implications of premarital agreements, also known as prenuptial agreements. These legal contracts, signed before marriage, can protect individual assets, clarify financial rights, and outline the division of property in the event of a divorce. However, it’s crucial to understand that…
Read MoreThe Importance of McPherson v. Copp for Unsolemnized Marriage Claims in Family Law
The case of McPherson v. Copp, recently decided by the Utah Court of Appeals, sheds light on the complexities of unsolemnized marriages in family law. This decision emphasizes the importance of evidentiary standards and the interpretation of “uniform and general reputation” as required by Utah Code section 30-1-4.5(1)(e). Case Background Sean McPherson and Lynn Copp…
Read MoreUnderstanding Custody Modifications: Lessons from Corn v. Groce
Navigating custody arrangements and modifications can be a complex and emotional process. The recent case of Corn v. Groce provides valuable insights into how courts approach requests for changing custody and parent-time arrangements. Background In this case, Blake Groce and Janette Corn, parents of twin daughters, initially shared joint legal and physical custody. Changes in…
Read MoreEnforcing Divorce Decrees: Lessons from Elder v. Elder
Introduction. Divorce decrees are intended to be final and enforceable judgments that both parties must follow. However, when one party fails to comply, the other may need to seek legal remedies. The recent case of Elder v. Elder illustrates the complexities and legal processes involved in enforcing a divorce decree. Background of the Case. Brittany…
Read MoreNavigating Property Division in Divorce: Lessons from Thorup v. Thorup
Property division in divorce can be complex, especially when distinguishing between separate and marital assets. The recent Utah Court of Appeals case, Thorup v. Thorup, provides valuable insights into how courts handle these intricate issues. Case Background In Thorup v. Thorup, Marcus and Mona Thorup’s divorce involved dividing equity in their marital home. The house,…
Read MoreUnderstanding Child Custody Decisions: Insights from Tilleman v. Tilleman
Child custody cases are often among the most contentious and emotionally charged proceedings in family law. The recent Utah Court of Appeals case, Tilleman v. Tilleman (2024 UT App 54), provides valuable insights into how courts approach these complex issues. Background of the Case In Tilleman v. Tilleman, Mr. Tilleman (Father) and Mrs. Tilleman (Mother)…
Read MoreDecoding Utah Family Law Jargon: Key Terms You Need to Know
Introduction: Navigating the intricacies of family law can be daunting, especially when you encounter a plethora of legal terms and jargon. Whether you’re embarking on a divorce, child custody battle, or adoption process in Utah, understanding the terminology is crucial. In this guide, we’ll decode commonly used words in Utah family law cases, empowering you…
Read MoreUnderstanding Countable Assets When Applying for Medicaid in Utah
Navigating the complexities of Medicaid eligibility can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding which assets are considered countable. For seniors in Utah seeking assistance with long-term care costs, knowing what assets Medicaid considers when determining eligibility is crucial. Let’s delve into what countable assets entail and how they impact your Medicaid application. What…
Read MoreNavigating Life After Divorce: Key Mistakes to Avoid
Divorce can present significant challenges and may have enduring effects on everyone involved. Even after the legal proceedings conclude, it’s vital to approach the post-divorce period with caution to ensure a seamless transition and safeguard your interests. In this blog post, we’ll delve into five essential steps to steer clear of common post-divorce pitfalls, offering…
Read MoreNew Mandatory Parenting Course Requirement in Utah Family Law
Understanding the latest updates in Utah family law is crucial for both married and unmarried parents involved in legal actions concerning child custody and parent-time. One of the most significant recent changes is the implementation of mandatory parenting courses for custody cases. Here’s what you need to know about this new requirement and how it…
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