Uncouple

Process

Contested Divorce in Utah

What to expect from a contested divorce in Utah. Timeline, costs, and strategies. Utah follows equitable distribution.

Property Type

Equitable

Filing Fee

$325

Median Cost

$8,500–$35,000

Annual Divorces

10,000+

Understanding Contested Divorce in Utah

To file for divorce in Utah, you must meet Utah’s residency requirement of 90 days. The filing fee is $325. There is a mandatory waiting period of 30 days (waivable) before the divorce can be finalized.

Utah allows both no-fault and fault-based divorce. Fault grounds include: Adultery, Desertion, Habitual drunkenness, Cruel treatment, Felony conviction, Neglect. Filing on fault grounds may affect property division or alimony awards.

An uncontested divorce in Utah typically costs $8,500 and takes 2–4 months. Contested cases average $35,000 and can take 12–18 months or longer. The governing statute is Utah Code §30-3-1.

Try the Letter Scanner

Get personalized analysis for your Utah situation.

Letter Scanner

Common Questions

How long do you have to live in Utah to file for divorce?
Utah requires 90 days of residency before you can file for divorce. Utah Code §30-3-1 governs the filing requirements.
Is Utah a community property or equitable distribution state?
Utah follows equitable distribution rules, meaning the court divides marital assets fairly but not necessarily equally.
How much does a divorce cost in Utah?
Filing fees in Utah range from $325. The median total cost is approximately $8,500 for uncontested divorces and $35,000 for contested cases.
How long does a divorce take in Utah?
Utah has a mandatory waiting period of 30 days (waivable). Uncontested divorces typically finalize in 2–4 months, while contested cases can take 12–18 months or longer.
How is child support calculated in Utah?
Utah uses the Income Shares model, based on both parents' combined income. The formula considers both parents' incomes, number of children, health insurance costs, and childcare expenses.

Get Clarity on Your Situation

Upload your letter or calculate your costs. Analyzed against Utah’s actual statutes — in 90 seconds.

Get Clarity Now Already have a lawyer? Audit your bill →

Related Resources

This page provides general information about contested divorce in Utah and is not legal advice. Verify current statutes with Utah Code §30-3-1 or consult a licensed Utah attorney. Last reviewed March 2026.