Family Law
Protect Your Family, Your Rights, and What Comes Next.
Sometimes families aren't forever. We help Utah parents and spouses navigate divorce, custody, and the long-term decisions that follow — with strategy and steady hands.
How does divorce and custody work in Utah?
Utah divorces begin with a petition in the district court where either spouse lives, followed by financial disclosures, a mandatory waiting period, and mediation before any trial. Custody is decided on the best interests of the child. Nelson Jones Legal guides Utah families through divorce, custody, support, alimony, and modifications.
- Waiting period
- 30 days from filing before a Utah decree can be entered
- Mediation
- Required in most contested Utah divorce and custody cases
- Residency
- 90 days in the Utah county where you file
- Consultation
- Free, confidential case review
What we handle
Free Family Law Consultation
How we approach free family law consultation matters in Utah courts.
Explore Free Family Law ConsultationDivorce
How we approach divorce matters in Utah courts.
Explore DivorceChild Custody
How we approach child custody matters in Utah courts.
Explore Child CustodyChild Support
How we approach child support matters in Utah courts.
Explore Child SupportAlimony
How we approach alimony matters in Utah courts.
Explore AlimonyProperty Division
How we approach property division matters in Utah courts.
Explore Property DivisionPrenuptial & Postnuptial
How we approach prenuptial & postnuptial matters in Utah courts.
Explore Prenuptial & PostnuptialAnnulment
How we approach annulment matters in Utah courts.
Explore AnnulmentModifying Prior Orders
How we approach modifying prior orders matters in Utah courts.
Explore Modifying Prior OrdersEnforcement & Contempt
How we approach enforcement & contempt matters in Utah courts.
Explore Enforcement & ContemptSame Sex Family Law
How we approach same sex family law matters in Utah courts.
Explore Same Sex Family LawMilitary Divorce
How we approach military divorce matters in Utah courts.
Explore Military Divorce
Family law cases, like a divorce or child custody, are not just deeply personal but can also have difficult legal implications that the people involved may not be even aware of. For these reasons, Nelson Jones is especially considerate in how we handle and represent you in family law cases.
Our attorneys are knowledgeable and experienced in dealing with all the complicated issues that come up in Utah's family law related to separation, property, custody and so on. Whether we are called to settle matters in a collaborative setting or in a trial, Nelson Jones will always be prepared to serve in your best interests.
Family Law Cases We Handle
Divorce
Our attorneys can provide you with expert advice on grounds for divorce, property division and financial support. Divorce mediation and guidance on separation are also offered by our firm.
Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements
Getting your affairs in order with your partner in a prenuptial agreement is one of our specialties. Even after a divorce or separation we can work together on a ‘postnuptial’ legal contract.
Annulment
If you believe you were married under fraudulent or problematic circumstances, we can consult with you on how to pursue an annulment of your marital status.
Guardianship & Conservatorship
If someone who you care for cannot handle major decisions on their own, please consult with our attorneys and we can guide you to either legal guardianship or conservatorship.
Custody
We know how to argue a case for the best interests of your child, whether that may be in sole or joint custody.
Alimony
Our experience will be useful in making a case for fair spousal support in the wake of a separation or divorce.
Child Support
We know how courts make judgments in child support cases and how to make arguments in the favor of you and your loved ones.
Adoption
Our attorneys can help with addressing all the legal considerations of adopting a child and with your specific situation in mind.
Appeals
If your case did not reach a satisfactory and fair resolution we can assist you in submitting an appeal and reverse a standing court ruling.
FAQs
What do family law attorneys do?
Family law attorneys provide legal services like guidance, negotiation and representation in court for clients involved in family disputes and issues, such as divorce or child custody.
Are there different types of family law attorneys?
There are different areas of family law for an attorney to specialize in, though attorneys can specialize in multiple areas as they tend to be related.
Is family law a subject of civil law?
Yes, family law cases are considered to be civil cases.
Is matrimonial law the same as family law?
The terms 'matrimonial law' and 'family law' are used interchangeably, referring to the same types of legal practice.
Can family law apply to domestic relations where there is no marriage?
Yes, legal issues between two unmarried partners can still be addressed, such as custody of a child born out of wedlock.
Nelson Jones is Here for You and Your Loved Ones

If you need help with a family law case in the state of Utah, we at Nelson Jones will provide you with a free consultation. With the utmost sensitivity and respect for confidentiality in your case, we will hear you out and provide you with options toward the best possible outcome.
Schedule a consultation to discuss your needs further.
Call (385) 275-6812 or fill out our online form below to get started.
Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer for my divorce in Utah?
Not always — but if you and your spouse disagree on custody, support, or property, a Utah family law attorney protects you from giving up rights you can't get back.
How is property divided in a Utah divorce?
Utah is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly, which is not always 50/50. We help you document and protect what's yours.
How quickly can I get a restraining order if my family is in danger?
Utah courts can issue protective orders quickly when there's documented danger. Call us immediately and we'll walk you through the next steps.
Where We Handle These Cases
Divorce, custody, support, and property division across Utah
Nelson Jones handles divorce, custody, support, and property division from our West Jordan office and in courthouses statewide. Choose your community below for local detail, or call (385) 275-6812 for a free, confidential review.
Herriman, Utah
Riverton, Utah
St. George, Utah
Also serving
Locally Owned. Utah Strong.
Utah family law guidance for the hardest seasons.
Nelson Jones Legal represents Utahns in divorce, custody, support, and property division from the Wasatch Front to Washington County. Our roots are here, our team lives here, and our courtrooms are the same ones you drive past on your way to work. When you hire us, you hire neighbors who know the local judges, insurance adjusters, and opposing counsel — and who treat your case with the seriousness it deserves.
We proudly serve clients across West Jordan, Salt Lake City, St. George, Sandy, Draper, Riverton, Herriman, Ogden, Provo, Layton, Davis County, Utah County, and Washington County. Whether you live in a small Davis County neighborhood or run a business along the St. George corridor, our attorneys travel to you when it matters and stand beside you in every courtroom we enter.
