Divorce Attorney in American Fork
Standing by Your Side in American Fork Divorce Cases
At Stevens & Gailey, PLLC, we are committed to providing compassionate and professional support for individuals and families navigating the complexities of divorce in American Fork, UT. Our team understands the emotional toll that divorce proceedings can have and works diligently to ensure that each client's journey is as smooth as possible.
With over 30 years of combined experience, our divorce attorneys are well-equipped to handle all aspects of family law, including child custody, alimony, and asset division.
Choosing the right divorce lawyer in American Fork is crucial during such a life-changing event. Our firm's approach is not only to represent you in legal matters but also to stand as a pillar of support and guidance. Our focus is on resolving issues in a manner that minimizes stress and disruption while safeguarding your rights and interests throughout the process.
Call (801) 761-2124 now or contact us online to schedule your consultation. We offer flexible payment plans and bilingual services in English and Spanish to support your needs.
Key Issues That Must Be Resolved in a Utah Divorce
Every divorce involves a set of critical issues that must be addressed before the court finalizes the case. These matters can affect both short-term arrangements and long-term stability, which is why careful resolution is essential.
The main issues include:
- Property division
- Debt allocation
- Child custody
- Parenting time/visitation
- Child support
- Alimony (spousal support)
- Division of retirement accounts
- Business ownership interests
- Tax considerations
- Health insurance and benefits
The Divorce Process in Utah
The path to divorce in Utah involves several key legal steps, all of which are governed by the Utah Code and the Utah Rules of Civil Procedure. The process can range from a relatively quick and amicable uncontested divorce to a prolonged and contentious legal battle. Regardless of the path, a skilled American Fork divorce lawyer is an invaluable guide.
Typical stages include:
- Filing the petition — starting the case and putting the other party on notice.
- Temporary orders — immediate short-term rulings on custody, support, and possession of the home.
- Discovery and negotiation — exchanging financial documents, appraisals, and evidence to find a resolution.
- Mediation or settlement talks — most cases resolve by agreement with careful negotiation.
- Trial — when agreement is not possible, we prepare to litigate and present evidence to the court.
Grounds for Divorce in Utah
Utah is a "no-fault" divorce state, meaning you do not have to prove fault to obtain a divorce. The most common ground is "irreconcilable differences." This means the marriage has irretrievably broken down, and there is no reasonable expectation of reconciliation.
However, Utah law also allows for "fault-based" grounds for divorce. While a no-fault divorce is typically the simplest path, in some cases, citing a fault ground can be strategically important, particularly regarding the division of property or spousal support.
Fault-based grounds for divorce in Utah include:
- Adultery
- Willful desertion for more than one year
- Cruel treatment to the extent of causing bodily injury or great mental distress
- Habitual drunkenness
- Willful neglect to provide the common necessities of life
- Felony conviction
- Incurable insanity
- Impotence at the time of marriage
Proving a fault-based ground requires a higher burden of proof and can prolong the divorce process. As your divorce attorney in American Fork, we will help you determine the most appropriate grounds for your case, weighing the potential benefits and drawbacks of each option.
Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce in American Fork
Uncontested Divorce
This occurs when both spouses agree on all the key terms of the divorce, including property division, child custody, child support, and spousal support (alimony). In this scenario, the parties can present a marital settlement agreement to the court for approval.
An uncontested divorce is typically faster, less expensive, and less emotionally draining than a contested one. Even if you and your spouse have reached an agreement, it's wise to have an independent divorce attorney in American Fork review the documents to ensure your rights are fully protected.
Contested Divorce
This arises when spouses cannot agree on one or more issues. These cases often involve negotiation, mediation, and, if necessary, litigation. A contested divorce can take several months to a year or more to resolve, depending on the complexity and the level of dispute. Our firm has extensive experience handling contested divorces, and as your American Fork divorce lawyer, we are prepared to litigate fiercely on your behalf to protect your interests.
Driven by integrity, compassion, & commitment Why Choose Stevens & Gailey, PLLC?
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Trusted AdvisorsWhether facing complex legal challenges or high-value disputes, you need a firm you can trust. With extensive experience and a reputation for excellence, we are here to guide you through every step with confidence and expertise.
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Unwavering CommitmentYour success is our priority. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to deliver the best possible outcomes, offering personalized attention and a strategic approach that’s always focused on your needs.
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Tailored StrategiesHandling complex, high-stakes cases requires a deep understanding of financial intricacies. We specialize in managing high-net-worth cases, crafting personalized legal strategies designed to protect your assets and interests.
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Bilingual Legal ExpertiseWe’re proud to offer legal services in both English and Spanish. Our bilingual team ensures that language is never a barrier to receiving top-tier legal representation, providing clear communication for all our clients.
Our Proven Experience & Client-Centered Approach
What sets Stevens & Gailey apart is our steadfast commitment to excellence and our client-centered methodology. We pride ourselves on our strong work ethic, honesty, and clear communication. Our use of advanced technology allows us to streamline legal processes, enhancing efficiency while maintaining effective results. By offering affordable fees and convenient payment plans, we ensure high-quality legal representation is within everyone's reach in American Fork.
We also understand that the complexities of divorce can extend beyond immediate legal concerns, impacting long-term financial and familial well-being. That's why our practice is dedicated not just to resolving current disputes but also to laying the groundwork for stable future arrangements. Our client-centered approach means that we listen actively to your needs and concerns, ensuring that each action taken is aligned with your best interests and future well-being.
Contact Our Experienced Divorce Attorneys Today
Taking the first step in your divorce journey can be daunting, but at Stevens & Gailey, PLLC, we are here to provide the clarity and support you need. By reaching out to our experienced team, you gain access to personalized legal guidance tailored to your unique situation. Whether through a virtual consultation or an in-office meeting, we are flexible to meet your needs. Let us help ease the burden and guide you towards a new beginning.
Call us at (801) 761-2124 or reach out online right now for a compassionate and collaborative approach to your divorce case.
