Post-Divorce Checklist – What to Do After the Papers Are Signed in Utah

Henriksen LawDivorce

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Going through a divorce in Utah can be one of the most challenging and life-changing experiences of your life. After the court has signed the final decree and the divorce papers are officially filed, the legal process may be over, but the journey of adjusting to your new life has just begun. 

So, what do you do after the divorce is final? 

The legal process, which can last as long as a year, is often emotionally draining. But after your divorce is final, there’s more to consider than just moving on emotionally. You will need to handle practical matters like reorganizing your finances, updating legal documents, and making personal adjustments. 

As leading Utah divorce attorneys, we believe in educating our clients. In this quick read, we will walk you through a post-divorce checklist that’ll help you move forward in your life. 

Let’s get started.

1. Make Sure the Divorce Decree Is Finalized

The first item on your post-divorce checklist is ensuring your divorce is legally finalized. In Utah, the divorce gets finalized once the judge signs a decree and files it with the district court in your county. 

The final divorce decree covers all details related to your divorce, including: 

Once you receive your final decree, review it carefully. If anything seems unclear or incomplete, speak with your divorce attorney in Utah first. You can also contact the court clerk’s office in your county directly.

2. Update Your Legal Documents

Once you’ve reviewed your final divorce decree, the next logical step would be to update all your legal documents. In Utah, after the divorce, you will need to update various legal documents to reflect your new status:

  • Will: If your ex-spouse was named as the executor or beneficiary of your estate, you will need to update your will. You may also need to designate new guardians for any minors in case you kick the bucket unexpectedly. 
  • Power of Attorney: If you had previously given your ex-spouse power of attorney, you must revoke this and assign someone else, such as a trusted friend or relative, as your PoA. 
  • Living Will: Similarly, if your ex-spouse was the healthcare proxy for making medical decisions on your behalf, update your living will and medical directives. 

In Utah, you can update these documents relatively easily. However, it is recommended to consult a competent divorce attorney in Utah to make sure the changes reflect your current wishes.

3. Change Your Name (if applicable)

In the US, 79% of women in opposite-sex marriages take their spouse’s last name after getting married. Utah is no exception to this trend. If you did change your last name, you might want to revert to your maiden name or a different name after the divorce.

Fortunately, you can request this as part of the divorce proceedings in Utah. Be sure your petition includes both your married and maiden names. Typically, the maiden name will be included in your final divorce decree. If not, you can file a separate petition with the court.

Once your name change is okayed, update it with the Utah Department of Motor Vehicles(DMV), Social Security Administration, banks, credit card companies, and lenders. 

4. Modify Financial Accounts

Divorce often changes your financial situation. In Utah, just like in other states, it’s necessary to update your financial accounts. This includes, but may not be limited to:

  • Bank Accounts: Be sure the after-divorce checklist includes opening new accounts in your name and closing any joint accounts that you shared with your ex. You should also remove your ex from any joint debts if applicable. Keep an eye on your credit report to ensure there are no lingering connections.
  • Credit Cards: If you have joint credit cards, you should either remove your ex from these accounts or close them. Be mindful of your credit score and any lingering debt tied to your ex-spouse.
  • Retirement Accounts: If your divorce decree included the division of retirement savings, make sure that the transfer is carried out properly. In Utah, a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) may be required to divide accounts like 401(k)s or pensions. Consult a financial professional or your attorney to ensure everything is handled correctly.

5. Review Your Insurance Policies

Another important task on your post-divorce checklist is updating your insurance policies. You’ll most likely need to do the following:  

  • Health Insurance: If you were covered under your ex-spouse’s health insurance, you’ll need to seek new coverage. In Utah, you may be eligible for COBRA, which allows you to continue coverage under your ex-spouse’s plan for a limited period. Alternatively, you can explore other individual or family plans through insurance companies or your employer.
  • Life Insurance: If your ex-spouse was the beneficiary of your life insurance policy, update this immediately to reflect your new wishes. If you have children, you may want to add them as beneficiaries or choose another trusted family member.
  • Car and Homeowners Insurance: Review your auto and homeowner’s insurance to make sure they reflect your new living situation. If you are moving out of the marital home, be sure your insurance covers your new property.

6. Settle Child Custody and Support Arrangements

Getting divorced with children can be complicated, especially when it comes to child custody and support agreements. Like in other states, Utah courts focus on the best interest of the child and want both parents to remain involved in their child’s life after divorce. 

So, one more task on your post-divorce checklist includes:  

  • Custody Agreements: Always stick to the custody arrangement outlined in your divorce decree. This may include both physical and legal custody, so ensure the terms are clear regarding visitation schedules and decision-making rights.
  • Child Support: The court will determine the amount of child support you or your ex will be required to pay. Keep a record of all payments, and if there are any issues, consider seeking a modification through the court.
  • Parenting Plan: Utah courts encourage parents to create a parenting plan. This can help you and your ex-spouse better manage responsibilities such as transportation, holidays, and medical care.

Conclusion

Divorce in Utah, like anywhere else, requires you to pay attention to both its practical and emotional aspects. This post-divorce checklist, consisting of six tips, will help you address the practical challenges you will face after divorce. Taking these steps will help you secure your finances and personal well-being.

If you need help updating legal documents in Utah, Henriksen & Henriksen is here to help. We are a long-standing family-run law firm with an excellent track record. Reach out at (801) 521-4145 or use our online form to schedule a free consultation.