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Utah guide

Modifying Custody in Utah

Utah allows modification of custody and parent-time when circumstances have materially and substantially changed and modification serves the child's best interests.

Written by A Father's Fight Editorial Team Last updated
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Verification in progress. Statute references on this page are being confirmed against current law by a licensed attorney. Use the official sources listed below for the authoritative text.

Key takeaways

  • File a petition to modify in the original case.
  • Mediation is generally required before a hearing.
  • Document the change and attach a proposed new parenting plan.

Legal / educational information

Standard

Utah requires a showing of a material and substantial change in circumstances since the last order, and that the change makes modification in the child's best interests. Parent-time-only modifications may face a lower threshold than custody changes. VERIFY: confirm the current statute text and section numbers with a licensed attorney before relying on this—Utah recodified its family-law statutes and section numbers have changed.

Legal / educational information

Process

Petition to modify → service → mediation → temporary orders if urgent → hearing. OCAP provides the petition forms.

Frequently asked questions

Yes. Utah treats parent-time modifications separately, and courts commonly adjust schedules as children age.

Sources

  1. [1]Utah Courts — Self-Help Center: Child Custody
  2. [2]Utah Courts — Online Court Assistance Program (OCAP)
  3. [3]Utah Code (Utah State Legislature)

A Father's Fight provides general educational information and personal experiences. It is not a law firm and this page is not a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney in your state. See our disclaimer and editorial policy.