Top Mistakes to Avoid During a Utah Divorce
Divorce is never easy, but avoiding a few common mistakes can make the process smoother and help protect your future. If you’re going through a divorce in Utah, knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing your rights. Here are the top mistakes people make during a Utah divorce—and how to avoid them.
1. Not Understanding Utah Divorce Laws
One of the most frequent mistakes is assuming that all divorces work the same way. Utah has specific laws regarding residency, waiting periods, alimony, property division, and child custody. For example, Utah follows equitable distribution, which means the court divides marital property fairly, not necessarily equally. Misunderstanding these laws can lead to unexpected outcomes.
2. Letting Emotions Drive Decisions
Divorce often comes with anger, sadness, or resentment. These emotions can cloud judgment. Whether it’s fighting over a family pet or refusing to compromise on visitation, emotional decisions often lead to longer, more expensive divorces. It’s critical to stay focused on long-term goals, especially when children are involved.
3. Hiding Assets
Some spouses try to hide assets or income to gain a financial advantage. Not only is this unethical—it’s illegal. Utah courts take asset disclosure seriously. If discovered, hiding assets can lead to court penalties, an unfavorable settlement, or loss of credibility in child custody cases. Be honest, and work with your attorney to protect your interests legally.
4. Ignoring the Financial Picture
Many people underestimate the financial impact of divorce. Failing to consider future expenses—like child support, taxes, and insurance—can create post-divorce hardship. Before agreeing to any terms, create a budget, understand your obligations, and plan ahead. Larsen Legal works with clients to evaluate the full financial picture before settlement.
5. Not Hiring a Utah Divorce Attorney
Trying to handle a divorce without legal help may seem like a way to save money, but it often costs more in the long run. A skilled Utah divorce attorney will help you understand your rights, avoid common pitfalls, and secure a fair outcome. Even in uncontested divorces, having legal guidance ensures your paperwork is correct and your rights are protected.
Protect Your Future With the Right Legal Team
Divorce is a major life transition, and the decisions you make today can affect your future for years to come. Avoiding these common Utah divorce mistakes can make a big difference in your outcome. At Larsen Legal, we provide honest, compassionate legal support to help you move forward with confidence.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s protect what matters most.
