Custody Modification Lawyer: Why Legal Representation Matters

Robert M. HenriksenChild Custody

A man and a woman sit at a large desk, engaged in a professional legal consultation. The woman, an attorney, is speaking while holding a pen over legal folders, one of which has "Substantial Change Evidence" text clearly visible on the front.

Custody orders are meant to create stability. But over time, life changes can make those agreements harder to follow or no longer aligned with a child’s needs. In the United States, about 40% of marriages end in divorce, according to Pew Research Center. As families adjust to new routines, parenting arrangements often need to change as well. Distance, work schedules, … Read More

How Do Utah Courts Handle the Relocation of a Parent?

Robert M. HenriksenChild Custody

A woman stands in a bright, spacious living room filled with moving boxes, smiling as she watches a young girl twirling with joy. Large windows in the background reveal a stunning view of snow-capped mountains.

After a divorce, life does not stay in one place for long. Jobs change. Support systems shift. New opportunities come up. For parents in Utah, relocating with a child can quickly turn into a legal issue when it affects custody or parenting time. Research from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that nearly one-third of American children experience parental divorce, and … Read More

How to Help Children Cope with Divorce and Separation in Utah

Robert M. HenriksenChild Custody, Divorce

parent talking to their child

It’s the first night after your divorce, and it feels like you’re living in a stranger’s home. You sit in the heavy silence until your child asks if Mom and Dad will still sit together at the school play. Questions about new bedrooms and weekend bags come fast, making the split feel sudden and sharp. This transition is a reality … Read More

7 Common Myths About Child Support in Utah

Robert M. HenriksenChild Custody

co-parents in utah after divorce

When it comes to child support, confusion is almost as common as the financial and emotional burden that often accompanies separation and divorce. Misunderstandings about how child support works can lead to poor decisions, unexpected financial strain, or unnecessary conflict between co-parents. In the United States, the child support system plays a major role in family stability. In fiscal year … Read More

How Can Parents Protect a Child Through Emergency Custody in Utah?

Robert M. HenriksenChild Custody

emergency custody lawyer in utah

When a family is in crisis, parents want one thing above all else: to keep their child safe. In Utah, there are moments when waiting for a regular child custody case is simply not possible. If a minor child is facing a serious and immediate risk, the law allows parents to seek emergency custody so the court can step in … Read More

What is Parental Alienation in Utah and How Courts Handle It

Robert M. HenriksenChild Custody

child holding hand with parents

The whole point of custody arrangements is to keep children safe and help them maintain strong relationships with both parents. But sometimes, one parent actively works to damage that bond. They criticize the other parent, interfere with visits, or pressure the child to take sides.  Over time, the child may start pulling away from a parent they once loved.   Behavior … Read More

What Happens If One Parent Violates a Custody Order in Utah

Robert M. HenriksenChild Custody

child custody lawyer

When a Utah court issues a custody or parent-time order, both parents are legally required to follow it. If a violation of a custody order occurs, whether it’s missed exchanges, withheld parental visits, or interference with decision-making, the courts can step in.  The primary goal of a child custody order is to protect what’s in the best interest of the … Read More

Can Children Choose Which Parent to Live with in Utah?

Robert M. HenriksenChild Custody

Child with Parents

TL;DR: During a divorce in Utah, children may express a preference about which parent they want to live with, but they cannot solely choose. The court will consider the child’s age, maturity, and reasons for their preference, while focusing on their best interests. Going through a divorce brings up countless questions, especially if you have kids. One of the most … Read More

When Should You Hire a Child Custody Lawyer?

Robert M. HenriksenChild Custody

child custody attorney

It is every parent’s duty to put their children’s well-being, safety, and best interest above all else. However, this isn’t always simple, and can become even more complicated when the parents are separated.  Apart from the usual stress, divorced parents may face different situations that could require intervention from a child custody lawyer. Issues such as child support, visitation schedules, … Read More

What You Need to Know About Establishing Paternity in Utah

Robert M. HenriksenChild Custody, Family Law

family law

When it comes to securing legal rights and responsibilities for both parents and children, the first is establishing paternity.  Like most other states, paternity determines a father’s rights to custody, visitation, and decision-making for the child in Utah. It also establishes financial obligations like child support.  Whether you’re a mother seeking financial support or a father fighting for parental rights, … Read More