Who pays attorney fees in child custody cases?

In Utah, each party typically pays its legal fees. However, in some cases, the court may order one party to pay the other’s fees, especially if there’s a significant income difference or one side has acted in bad faith. Working with a child custody attorney can help you understand what to expect in your situation.

How to get full custody of a child in Utah?

Full custody, also called sole legal and physical custody, is usually granted when it's clearly in the child’s best interest. This often applies in situations involving abuse, neglect, or high conflict. An experienced attorney for child custody can help you build your case and show the court why shared custody may not be appropriate.

What does 'best interest of the child' mean?

This standard guides Utah custody decisions. Courts consider factors like the child’s relationship with each parent, stability, mental and physical health, and each parent’s ability to care for the child.

Can custody orders be changed later?

If there’s a major change, like a move, a new job, or safety concerns, you can ask the court to modify the existing order. A knowledgeable child custody lawyer can guide you through the process and help present a strong case for modification.

How long does a child custody case take in Utah?

Most cases take a few months to a year, depending on complexity, whether it involves a trial, and how quickly both parties can reach an agreement.

Do I need a lawyer for a custody case in Utah?

You’re not legally required to have an attorney, but hiring an experienced child custody attorney in Utah can help, especially if the other parent has legal representation or the case involves contested issues.

Your Child’s Future Is Too Important to Leave to Chance

Utah Child Custody Attorneys

Child custody cases are often emotionally charged and deeply personal. The outcome can shape your child’s future and your ongoing relationship with them.

At Henriksen Law, we work closely with Utah parents to reach practical custody solutions that reflect the child’s best interests, while supporting you through every step.

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Helping You Take the Next Right Step for Your Child

Utah Child Support Attorneys

Raising a child takes emotional, physical, and financial commitment. Utah’s system makes sure your child gets the support they need, without adding pressure or conflict between parents.

At Henriksen Law, we help parents understand their rights, meet their obligations, and establish support agreements that are fair, accurate, and enforceable under Utah law.

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Contact Robert M. Henriksen & C. Richard Henriksen, Jr.

Helping Utah Families Through Custody Disputes

We’ve helped Utah families with child custody issues for over 60 years. Our child custody attorneys aim to resolve disputes with as little stress as possible.

Utah uses a formula to calculate child support. We'll make sure your order reflects your unique circumstances, including your income, child custody, and medical needs. If your situation changes, we’ll help you update the support order so it still works for your child and feels fair to everyone.

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Child Custody Services in Utah

Legal Custody & Physical Custody

Utah distinguishes between legal custody (decision-making authority) and physical custody (where the child lives). We help you understand the differences and advocate for the right combination of joint or sole custody that fits your child’s needs.

Custody Evaluation Support

In some cases, the court may order a custody evaluation by a licensed professional. We help you prepare for this process and make sure your perspective is accurately represented.

Temporary Custody Orders

Temporary custody orders can provide much-needed structure while your case is in progress. We’ll help you request terms that keep routines in place and protect your child’s day-to-day well-being.

Parenting Plans

Utah courts need a detailed parenting plan when custody is shared. Our team assists in creating clear, enforceable plans that outline visitation schedules, holiday agreements, and communication.

Modifying Custody Orders

If circumstances change, such as relocation, a new job, or safety concerns, you may need to update your custody order. We help you in seeking or contesting modifications based on what’s best for the child.

Enforcement & Contempt Actions

If your co-parent is violating court-ordered custody terms, we can take legal steps to enforce the order and protect your rights, including filing an Order to Show Cause.

What Our Clients Say

Budget Friendly

When in need of a divorce lawyer My attorney, Rob, took the time to get to know what was unique about my case while keeping my budget in mind. I was provided with competent and individualized representation during a difficult time in my life.
Adam

Fantastic Attorney
Rob is a fantastic attorney. He took my needs into consideration and firmly, professionally, and timely accomplished even more than I thought was possible.
Momma K

Highly recommended!
Henriksen & Henriksen helped my husband through a WC injury case. We ended with a settlement that we were very happy with. I would highly recommend them!
Holly

Good Attorney
I had a chance to hire this firm to resolve some of my problems and I can assure you the staff was professional, responded to my requests timely and helped me resolve my issues. Couldn't be any happier and I would recommend to anyone who is looking for good attorney.
J from Sandy, Utah

Helped 100%
This law firm is number one. They really helped me 100%.
Steven

Very Responsive!
I found the law firm to be very responsive and professional to my situation, they resolved my legal situation in a very speedy time and manner, I will definitely go back for their assistance in the future. I highly recommend them to anyone needing legal assistance.
CP from Salt Lake City

How We Handle Child Custody Cases: Our Process

Step 1

Consultation & Strategy

We begin with a private consultation to learn about your situation. Then we build a legal plan tailored to your custody goals whether it’s sole, joint, or a modification.

Step 2

File & Notify

We prepare and file your custody petition with the court and legally notify the other parent.

Step 3

Temporary Orders (If Needed)

If needed, we help you request temporary custody, support, or visitation while your case moves forward.

Step 4

Mediation & Discovery

Utah requires mediation in most cases. We also exchange key information like parenting records and finances to support your case.

Step 5

Resolution & Final Order

If you reach an agreement, we submit a parenting plan for court approval. If not, we represent you at trial and handle final custody orders or future changes.

Mediation Attorney Robert Henriksen & Attorney C. Richard Henriksen

Mediation Attorney Robert Henriksen & Attorney C. Richard Henriksen

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Why Work with a Child Custody Attorney in Utah?

When your child’s future is on the line, you need strong legal protection. Our attorneys know Utah custody law inside and out and will stand by you through every challenge.

When you hire Henriksen Law, you can expect:

Deep experience with Utah’s custody laws and court system.

Thoughtful, objective legal advice.

Guidance through every legal step, from paperwork to parenting plans.

Support with modifying or enforcing orders when circumstances change.

For decades, we've been helping Utah parents navigate difficult child custody situations with a clear strategy and genuine care.

Whether through mediation, negotiation, or litigation, we work to find solutions that protect your child, respect your role as a parent, and help your family move forward.

Utah client meeting with a child support attorney

Ready to get started? Our results speak for themselves. Over the years, we have handled all types of cases to recover just compensation for our clients.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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