The Impact of Premarital Agreements on Spousal Support in Utah

At Ellsworth Law Firm in Lehi, Utah, we often guide clients through the complexities of premarital agreements, also known as prenuptial agreements. These legal contracts, signed before marriage, are valuable tools for establishing financial arrangements and protecting assets. However, it’s crucial to understand that while premarital agreements can address various financial matters, including spousal support,…

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Understanding the Importance of Hillam v. Hillam in Utah Family Law

Division of Assets

The Hillam v. Hillam case, decided on July 18, 2024, by the Utah Court of Appeals, addresses significant issues in divorce proceedings. It particularly focuses on the division of marital assets held in an irrevocable trust and allegations of asset dissipation. This case underscores the complexities of asset distribution in divorce and the importance of…

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The Importance of McPherson v. Copp for Unsolemnized Marriage Claims in Family Law

Common Law Marriage

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…

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Enforcing Divorce Decrees: Lessons from Elder v. Elder

Enforcement Issues

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…

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Navigating Life After Divorce: Key Mistakes to Avoid

Post Divorce 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…

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Empowering Guardianship: Understanding Delegation of Powers by Parents or Guardians

Post Divorce Mistakes to Avoid

Utah law recognizes that parents or guardians may need to temporarily delegate certain powers regarding care, custody, or property to another individual through a properly-executed power of attorney. This legal mechanism, outlined in Section 75-5-103 of the Utah Code, provides flexibility and support to families in navigating various circumstances. Let’s explore what this delegation of…

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Understanding Supervised Parent-Time in Utah Family Law

Supervised parent-time.

In the complex landscape of family law, ensuring the safety and well-being of children is paramount. Utah law recognizes the fundamental liberty interests of parents and children to have unrestricted and unsupervised access to one another. However, in circumstances where there is evidence indicating potential harm to the child, the court may order supervised parent-time…

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Understanding Vocational Assessments in Utah Family Law Cases

Determining one's income in family law cases

In the realm of family law, particularly in cases involving child support and/or spousal support (alimony), vocational assessments can play a crucial role in determining a fair and equitable outcome. But what exactly is a vocational assessment, and why might one be requested in a divorce case? Let’s delve into these questions and explore the…

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Understanding Temporary Orders in Utah Family Law

Temporary Orders

In the realm of family law, particularly in Utah, temporary orders play a crucial role in addressing immediate concerns and providing stability during the pendency of a legal case. Whether you’re going through a divorce, a child custody dispute, or any other family-related legal matter, temporary orders can significantly impact the trajectory of your case…

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