Utah family-law guide · reviewed August 22, 2026
Utah Custody & Parent-Time
Current, source-linked Utah terminology and rules without imported out-of-state formulas.
Legal information, not legal advice. Utah law and local practice can change. Verify forms, fees, filing methods, service, and hearing procedure with the clerk of the District Court receiving your case.
Utah terminology
Legal custody
The right to make major decisions (education, health, religion).
Physical custody
Where the child lives.
Parent-time
The schedule of time each parent spends with the child.
Best interests
The standard; decided by a preponderance of the evidence (Utah Code 81-9-204).
Core rules
- Utah uses 'custody' (legal/physical, sole/joint) plus 'parent-time'
- The court considers the child's best interests by a preponderance of the evidence (Utah Code 81-9-204)
- Joint legal custody is presumed in the child's best interest (Utah Code 81-9-205)
- Joint physical custody = child spends at least 111 nights a year with each parent
- Sole physical custody = child spends over 255 nights a year with one parent
- No preference to mother over father (or vice versa) based on gender
- Parenting classes are required for parents with minor children
- Cases are heard in District Court
Support and modification cautions
Utah uses the Income Shares model (Utah Code Title 81, Ch. 6). Custody modification needs a substantial and material change in circumstances plus best interests; child support needs a substantial change (a 10%+ difference is a basis).
Official sources reviewed August 22, 2026
Always confirm current local forms, fees, and filing procedure with the clerk of the Utah District Court handling your case.