There are two types of child custody in Utah: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody is the right to have input into major life decisions for your child. Physical custody is where your child will live.
At Bostwick & Price P.C. in Salt Lake City, Utah, our lawyers help parents create workable child custody arrangements. We represent clients who are going through divorce as well as unmarried parents who have decided to live apart.
Joint Child Custody and Sole Child Custody in Utah
Physical child custody can be joint or sole in Utah. If the noncustodial parent has the child at least 111 overnight visits, it is considered joint child custody. If the noncustodial parent has the child fewer than 111 visits, it is considered sole custody.
It is best if the parents can work out an appropriate child custody and visitation arrangement. Two parents can usually reach a better decision than a judge who does not know your family.
Legal Custody Is Usually Shared
Day-to-day decisions such as bedtimes are made by the parent who has custody of the child. Major decisions, such as those about medical care, education and religious upbringing, are usually shared unless there are compelling reasons (such as abuse or drug addiction) why one parent should not be involved in decision making.
How Child Support Is Determined in Utah
Child support in Utah is based on the incomes of both parents, the number of children supported and the number of overnight visits each parent has.
Modifications to Child Custody, Visitation and Support in Utah
Child custody and visitation can be modified after your divorce if there is a substantial change in your circumstances. Examples of a compelling change in circumstances include:
- A parent's drug use or lifestyle put a child at risk
- A proposed relocation of a custodial parent
- Domestic violence
- A child is not doing well at home or at school
- A child's preference, if he or she is old enough
Child support can be changed if there is a substantial change in either parent's income, such as job loss, a promotion, a pay reduction or an increase in pay.
Grandparents' Rights in Utah
As a grandparent in Utah you also may have certain rights. Our attorneys can help you discover your options.
For More Information About Joint and Sole Child Custody or Visitation Rights in Utah
For a free 30-minute initial consultation, call 801-326-3683 or contact us by e-mail. Our Salt Lake City child custody attorneys handle cases throughout Utah.
