How do I modify a Utah custody or child support order?: 10 Quick Questions Answered

Yes, you can request to change (modify) a custody or child support order in Utah if there’s been a significant change in circumstances. Common reasons include a major change in income, a parent moving, or a shift in a child’s needs or schedule. Utah law allows these changes to ensure orders remain fair and serve the child’s best interests. See Utah Code § 30-3-5.

Utah courts look for life changes that are significant and ongoing. Examples include job loss or a big pay cut, one parent moving far away (like from Ogden to St. George), major health issues, or changes in the child’s needs. Minor shifts or short-term issues usually aren’t enough. The change must directly affect the existing custody or support arrangement.

To begin, you must file a motion or petition to modify with the same Utah court that issued your current order—usually a district court in your county. You’ll need to explain what’s changed and why a modification is necessary. Prepare to provide evidence and fill out specific court forms.

1. Download the correct forms from the Utah courts website.
2. Complete and file the forms with your district court (such as Salt Lake, Provo, or Logan).
3. Serve the other parent with copies using proper legal service methods.

No, but it helps—especially in complicated situations. Many Utahns handle straightforward modifications without an attorney using online court forms. However, if your case involves disputes, relocation, or serious disagreements, consider consulting a Utah family law attorney or seeking help from court self-help services.

After filing and serving the other party, the other parent has a set time to respond (usually 21 days if served in Utah). If the case is contested, a judge may require mediation (Utah Code § 30-3-39) before scheduling a court hearing. If both parents agree, the judge may approve modifications without a formal hearing.

Not always. Utah judges review whether there’s solid proof of a substantial change and that the update benefits the child. If the change seems minor or not in the child’s best interest, your request could be denied. Clear documentation and preparation help support your modification case.

Timing depends on your case’s complexity and whether parents agree. In Utah, simple, uncontested changes can be finalized in a few months. Disputed cases or those requiring court hearings generally take longer—sometimes up to a year. Using mediation and being thorough with paperwork can help speed up the process.

No—both custody and support require their own modification requests. If your custody changes, update child support as well by filing a “Petition to Modify Child Support.” The court will recalculate support using Utah’s guidelines (Utah Code § 78B-12-210).

See how a Utah attorney explains the basics of modifying child support, including required steps and what counts as a valid reason.

This video breaks down the Utah steps and forms for changing child support.

• Proof of income changes (pay stubs, tax returns, job loss notices)
• Medical records or doctor’s notes if health is a factor
• School reports, schedules, or other records relating to the child
• Communication between parents, like texts or emails relevant to the change

Bringing strong evidence can make the difference in winning your modification case.

Even if the other parent disagrees, you can proceed. The court will let both sides present their case, and a judge will decide. Mediation is often required in Utah to encourage compromise before trial. If you’re worried about safety or harassment, additional protections are available (see Utah Code § 78B-7-404 for protective order basics).

If you and your child have lived in Utah for six months or longer, you can usually transfer and modify an out-of-state order under Utah law, but the process is slightly more complex. Always consult with a Utah attorney familiar with interstate custody or support (Utah follows the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act).

1. Stay organized—keep all documents and communications.
2. Act quickly after a change has occurred; don’t delay your filing.
3. If possible, discuss changes with the other parent to see if you can agree.
4. Double-check that you’re using up-to-date court forms for your Utah county.

These steps increase your chances of a quicker, less stressful process.