South Jordan Child Custody Attorney

Carr | Woodall recognizes the complexities and sensitivities involved in child custody cases. As experienced legal professionals serving South Jordan and its surrounding areas, we understand the profound impact these matters can have on families. Our commitment is to provide compassionate and strategic legal guidance to safeguard the child's best interests while advocating for our client's parental rights.

Call Carr | Woodall today at (801) 988-9400 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our child custody lawyer in South Jordan!

How Is Child Custody Decided in Utah?

In Utah, child custody decisions are meticulously considered, with the child's best interests taking precedence. Courts evaluate a range of factors to determine the most suitable custody arrangement. These factors include:

• Each Parent’s Ability to Care for the Child: Courts assess each parent's capability to provide for the child's physical, emotional, and developmental needs. This includes providing a safe and stable home environment, meeting educational and healthcare needs, and fostering emotional support.
• The History of Each Parent’s Relationship with the Child: The nature and quality of the parent-child relationship are significant factors in custody determinations. Courts consider factors such as the level of involvement in the child's upbringing, the quality of the bond between parent and child, and the history of caretaking responsibilities.
• How Parental Finances Will Affect the Issue: While financial resources should not dictate custody decisions, courts may consider each parent's financial situation to ensure the child's needs are adequately met. This includes assessing each parent's ability to provide for the child's necessities, educational expenses, and extracurricular activities.
• Each Parent’s Desires on the Matter: Courts may consider each parent's preferences regarding custody arrangements. However, parental desires alone are not determinative and must align with the child's best interests.
• Each Parent’s Willingness to Encourage Contact and Communication: Courts value a parent's willingness to foster a positive relationship between the child and the other parent. This includes encouraging regular contact, facilitating communication, and supporting the child's relationship with extended family members.
• How Extended Family Relationships Will be Affected: The impact of custody arrangements on extended family relationships, such as grandparents, siblings, and other relatives, may also be considered by the court.
• Evidence of Any Past Domestic Abuse: Courts carefully examine any history of domestic violence or abuse involving either parent. The safety and well-being of the child are paramount, and past incidents of domestic violence may significantly influence custody decisions.
• The Child’s Preference if He or She is 14 or Older: In Utah, children aged 14 or older may express their preferences regarding custody arrangements. While the child's preference is not determinative, courts may consider it one of many factors in assessing the child's best interests.

In navigating the complexities of child custody proceedings in Utah, Carr | Woodall provides skilled legal representation to ensure that our client's rights are protected and the child's best interests are upheld. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you in your child custody matter.

What are the Different Types of Custody?

• Legal Custody: Legal custody entails the authority to make significant decisions concerning the child's upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. In most cases, joint legal custody is favored unless circumstances necessitate sole legal custody.
• Physical Custody: This aspect determines where the child primarily resides and the allocation of time spent with each parent. It may be granted solely to one parent (sole physical custody) or shared between both parents (joint physical custody), with considerations such as parent-child relationships and practical logistics guiding the arrangement.
• Temporary Custody: In cases where immediate decisions regarding custody are necessary before a final court order is issued, temporary custody may be granted. Temporary custody arrangements are typically established to ensure the child's well-being and stability during the legal process.