Mary Carollo: Signs That You Should Get a Divorce

Are you on the fence about whether or not getting a divorce is right for you? The following are a few signs of failing marriages people most commonly notice before they end up filing a divorce petition:

There are more bad moments than good: Why would you want to live with a relationship in which most of your interactions with your spouse are negative? The constant negativity in your life can be emotionally unhealthy, causing you to fall into depression or experience other mental health issues.
You cannot stop focusing on flaws: Spending a lot of time with anyone can lead to you becoming more irritated than usual with that person’s flaws. But in a healthy marriage, you should be able to overlook the flaws of your spouse and learn to live with them. If you find yourself unable to stop focusing on these flaws, you may be experiencing trouble in your relationship.
You constantly feel attacked: Do you feel as if you are always walking on eggshells around your partner? This could be a predictor of a failing relationship, as well. You should work to confront this feeling whenever it arises rather than just attempting to deal with it on your own.
You have lost interest: In so many failing relationships, the decision to file for divorce was made because one partner simply lost interest in the relationship. Perhaps he or she lost any romantic feelings or attraction for the other person. Or, maybe the two spouses started to feel more like roommates than romantic partners. This can be fatal for a marriage.

Utah-Specific Divorce Rules to Know

Are you preparing to file for divorce in Utah? Below is a brief overview of a few rules and factors you might consider as you move forward with the process.

Grounds for divorce

The state of Utah allows you to file for divorce on either fault or no-fault grounds. Fault grounds can give you an advantage in cases that involve child custody contests, disputes of marital property distribution or spousal maintenance (also known as alimony). You can also base your divorce on you and your spouse having been separated for a minimum of 12 months.

Residency requirements

You must have lived in Utah for at least thee (3) months before you can file for divorce in the state. If you have minor children, you need six (6) months. There are some exceptions to these rules. An attorney can help you provide evidence that you are a legal resident.

Child custody and support

As in all other states, Utah courts base child support and custody arrangements on what is in the best interests of the child. The presumption is that it is best for children to have frequent contact with both parents, which means a favoring of joint custody arrangements. However, if it is in the best interests of the child for one parent to have sole physical custody, the court will make that arrangement.

Both parents must financially support their children after the divorce. The amount of child support depends on a variety of factors, including how much time each parent spends with the children and each parent’s income.

Property division

Utah is an equitable division state, which means the individual who owns which pieces of property is not the sole factor the judges will consider. Instead, a judge will divide marital property in a way he or she determines to be fair, even if that division is not equal.

Free Initial Consultation with a Divorce Attorney

Divorce is tough. No question about it. Look, when you need a divorce lawyer, call Ascent Law for your free consultation (801) 676-5506. We want to help you.