Posts by Dale Ellsworth
Alimony in Utah Family Law Cases: Lessons from Krajeski v. Krajeski
Alimony is one of the most contentious issues in Utah divorce cases, and the Utah courts have specific guidelines for awarding it. The recent Utah Court of Appeals decision in Krajeski v. Krajeski, 2025 UT App 19, highlights the importance of properly substantiating alimony claims and ensuring that awards are based on legal standards rather than…
Read MoreYou’ve Been Awarded a Portion of Your Ex-Spouse’s Employer-Sponsored Retirement—What’s Next?
Divorce settlements often include the division of retirement assets, such as 401(k)s and pensions. If a court has awarded you a portion of your ex-spouse’s employer-sponsored retirement plan, you may be wondering: How do you actually receive your share? At Ellsworth Law Firm, we guide clients through the process to ensure they secure what they…
Read MoreWhat Does an Equitable Distribution of Property Mean in a Divorce?
Dividing property during a divorce can be one of the most contentious and complex aspects of the process. In Utah, property division is based on the principle of equitable distribution, meaning that assets and debts are divided fairly, though not necessarily equally. Whether you’re going through a divorce or preparing for one, understanding how equitable distribution…
Read MoreHow to Prepare for a Divorce: A Comprehensive Guide
Going through a divorce can be one of the most challenging times in your life. Whether you’re considering divorce or have already made the decision, preparation is key. Understanding the steps to take and what to expect can make the process smoother and help protect your rights and interests. In this guide, we’ll explain how…
Read MoreAdjustment 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…
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