# Utah Divorce Lawyer | Call Today

## A Family Law Firm That Cares and Delivers

**At Brown Family Law, we understand that divorce and custody challenges touch every part of your life**. Since 2010, our attorneys have helped thousands of Utah families move forward with clarity and confidence, always leading with empathy and honesty. We explain everything in plain English, communicate consistently, and stand with you at every step so you feel supported and informed as you build your future.

![Top 40 under 40](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/Advocates-top-40-member-logo-1.png.png)   ![Utah-state-bar](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/utah-state-bar-1.jpg.png)   [![Super Lawyers](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/super-lawyers-2.png)](https://profiles.superlawyers.com/utah/sandy/lawfirm/brown-family-law-llc/898c9523-a32d-493b-903c-6bacf30c8c71.html)   ![Utah Legal Elite](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/uthah-legal.jpg.png)   ![Best Atorney](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2019_10_best_fla-1-150x202.jpg.png)   ![Best Divorce Lawyer](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/ut_sandy_divorce-attorney_2022_transparent-320x202-1.png)   ![Leadcounsel](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/leadcounsel-1.png.png)   ![NAFLA-Badge-2017](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/NAFLA-Badge-2017-1.png.png)   [![Justia](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/justia-1.jpg.png)](https://lawyers.justia.com/lawyer/marco-brown-1489433)   ![Divorce Lawyer](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/divorce_transparent_216px-1-216x202.png.png)   ![Best Lawyer](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/best-lawyers.jpg.png)   [![Avvo Badge](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/avvo-rating.jpg.png)](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/justia-1.png)   [![Avvo Badge](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/avvo-client.jpg.png)](https://www.avvo.com/attorneys/84070-ut-marco-brown-3562265.html)                    OUR SERVICES

## Practice Areas

Clear guidance and proven experience in the issues that matter most.

01 Divorce  [### Divorce We guide you through divorce with clear communication and a focus on protecting your future and your relationship with your kids. ![Divorce](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/divorce-1.png)](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/salt-lake-city-ut/divorce-lawyer/)    02 Child Custody  [### Child Custody We help you understand your custody options and work to secure the time and stability your kids need. ![Child Custody](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/child-custody-1_11zon.webp)](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/salt-lake-city-ut/child-custody-lawyer/)    03 Child Support  [### Child Support We make sure child support is fair and reflects what your children truly require to thrive. ![Child Support](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/child-support-1.png)](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/salt-lake-city-ut/child-support-lawyer/)    04 Property Division  [### Property Division We help divide property in a way that is clear, fair, and focused on your long-term financial stability. ![Property Division](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/property-division-1_11zon.webp)](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/salt-lake-city-ut/property-division-lawyer/)    05 Alimony  [### Alimony We help you understand how alimony works in Utah and what is fair based on your needs and circumstances. ![Alimony](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/alimony-1.png)](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/salt-lake-city-ut/alimony-lawyer/)   [Explore All Practice Areas](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/practice-areas/)           WHAT CLIENTS SAY

## Families Trust Us

Hear from people who came to us scared and left feeling supported, informed, and protected.

![Mira's Testimonial](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/miras-testimonial.png)

“I would recommend Brown law because they were very professional and whenever I had a question or concern they were quickly um able to get back with whatever questions I had...”

Mira Richardson

Brown Family Law Client

![Erin Testimonial](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/erin.png)

“They knew exactly what needed to be done and they told me the process I needed to go through and what I needed to send them and what they needed from me and usually a kind of a ball ballpark estimate of how long it would take for something to turn around...”

Erin McOmber

Brown Family Law Client

![Cindy Testimonial](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/cindy.png)

“The brown team said come in we'll talk to you for free at first and it was an easy, you know, very casual and non stressful way to kind of get things going and they just made me feel so at ease...”

Cindy

Brown Family Law Client

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OUR PROVEN PROCESS

## A Clear, Calming Process From Start to Finish

Structured steps that remove uncertainty and give you peace of mind.

[Call Us For A Consultation](tel:+18016859999) [Learn More](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/contact-us/)                 STEP 1

### We Listen Carefully To You

We take time to understand your family, your goals, and your concerns so we can tailor our approach to what truly matters most to you and your children. 

![We Listen Carefully To You](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/we-listen.png)       STEP 2

### Gather Your Family Information

We collect detailed information about you, your spouse, and your children so we fully understand your family dynamics and can build a strong, personalized legal strategy. 

![Gather Your Family Information](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/documents.png)       STEP 3

### Gather Your Financial Information

We compile all relevant financial information — assets, debts, income — so we can assess your situation accurately and protect your financial interests through the process. 

![Gather Your Financial Information](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/man-smiling.png)       STEP 4

### Create Your Legal Plan

Using what we know about your family and finances, we develop a clear, custom legal plan designed to help you reach your ideal outcome. 

![Create Your Legal Plan](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/create-legal-plan.png)       STEP 5

### Initiate Mediation and Negotiation

We begin with mediation and negotiation in hopes of resolving your case quickly, peacefully, and in a way that minimizes stress, cost, and conflict. 

![Initiate Mediation and Negotiation](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/initiate-mediation-and-negotiation.png)       STEP 6

### Go To Court If Necessary

If mediation or negotiation can’t resolve everything, we’re ready to take your case to court — to protect your rights, your children, and your assets. 

![Go To Court If Necessary](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/go-to-court.png)       STEP 7

### Finalize Your Case

Once agreements are reached or the court decides, we complete all required paperwork and walk you through what the final orders mean for you and your future. 

![Finalize Your Case](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/finalize-your-case.png)                            WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT

## Our Lawyers

Meet the People Dedicated to Your Peace of Mind

[![Marco Clayton Brown](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/marco-brown-1.png) ### Marco Brown Founding Partner I still remember the day a good friend called and asked me to help her get divorced. Hers was a very difficult situation,…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/marco-clayton-brown/)     [![Clay Randle](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/clay-randle.png) ### Clay Randle Partner Clay joined Brown Family Law in 2018 and leads our law office in Sandy, Utah to help our clients to protect their family…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/clayton-randle/)     [![Leilani Whitmer](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/leilani.png) ### Leilani Whitmer Family Law Attorney Leilani was born in Utah but spent most of her childhood in Henderson, Nevada. She attended the University of Utah, graduating with bachelor’s…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/leilani-whitmer/)     [![Nathaniel](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/Nathaniel-2.png) ### Nathaniel Garrabrandt Team Lead Attorney Prior to becoming an attorney, Nathaniel was a high school English teacher in rural southern Idaho and a sportswriter for a daily newspaper.…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/nathaniel-garrabrandt/)     [### Russell Yauney Family Law Attorney Russell was raised in Sandy, Utah, where he met his wife in high school, although it took him many years to convince her…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/russell-yauney/)     [![Mario Arras](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/mario-arras.png) ### Mario Arras Family Law Attorney Attorney Mario Arras is Of Counsel at Brown Family Law, where he practices in the areas of divorce and family law in Salt…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/mario-arras/)     [![Daniel Young](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/daniel.png) ### Daniel Young Family Law Attorney Daniel Young grew up locally in South Salt Lake and graduated from West high School. He joined Brown Family Law in 2022 bringing…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/daniel-young/)     [### Paul Waldron Family Law Attorney Paul is passionate about helping families who are going through a divorce in Utah, to protect their money and maximize the time with…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/paul-waldron/)     [### Ray Hingson Family Law Attorney Ray attended Washington and Lee University School of Law, where prosecution and family law became the focus of his interest. He graduated with…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/ray-hingson/)     [![Kimberly D. Washburn](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/kimberly.png) ### Kimberly D. Washburn Family Law Attorney In her 25 years as an attorney, Kim has represented hundreds of clients from all corners of Utah and has helped them successfully…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/kimberly-washburn/)     [![David Handy](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/david.png) ### David Handy Family Law Attorney David Handy grew up all over the country before moving back to Utah for college. After completing missionary service in South Korea, he…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/david-handy/)     [![Katrina Redd](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/katrina.png) ### Katrina Redd Family Law Attorney Katrina is passionate about helping families navigate the complicated process of divorce. She attended Southwestern Law School. Katrina graduated from Brigham Young University,…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/katrina-redd/)     [### Nicholas Schwarz Family Law Attorney Nick joined Brown Family Law in 2025 to help clients protect what matters most—their families and their finances. He brings a sharp legal…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/nicholas-schwarz/)     [![Jennifer Keeton](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/jennifer-1.png) ### Jennifer Keeton Family Law Attorney Jennifer was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, before moving to Utah to pursue her education. She attended Brigham Young University, where…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/jennifer-keeton/)     [![David Hunt](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/david-hunt-1.png) ### David Hunt Family Law Attorney David Hunt is a dedicated Family Law Attorney at Brown Family Law, committed to guiding clients through some of the most challenging transitions…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/david-hunt/)     [### Amy Livingston Family Law Attorney Amy is a seasoned legal professional with nearly two decades of experience supporting clients at Brown Family Law. Her background spans family law,…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/amy-livingston/)     [### Anthony Saunders Family Law Attorney Anthony M. Saunders is a seasoned Utah trial attorney with over 14 years of courtroom experience representing clients in high-stakes criminal defense and…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/anthony-saunders/)     [![Neva Short](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/neva.png) ### Neva Short Law Clerk Neva Short is a Law Clerk at our firm and a rising 3L at BYU Law School. With two years of legal education…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/neva-short/)     [### Katherine Stahlecker Law Clerk Katherine Stahlecker is a Law Clerk at our firm and a rising 2L at BYU Law School. Katherine supports our attorneys by conducting…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/katherine-stahlecker/)     [![Carren Leavitt](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/carren-1.png) ### Carren Leavitt Lead Paralegal Carren Leavitt was born in Salt Lake City, Utah. At the age of 12, her family relocated to Dayton, Ohio where she attended…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/carren-leavitt/)     [![idania-blandon](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/idania-blandon.jpg) ### Idania Blandon Assistant Lead Paralegal Dani was born and raised in Nicaragua. Her interest in the law came at an early age as her mother is a lawyer…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/idania-blandon/)     [![Candace Hartlauer](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/candace-2.png) ### Candace Hartlauer Paralegal Candace Hartlauer is a highly skilled Paralegal bringing over 20 years of experience in financial services, risk management and legal support. Candace is…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/candace-hartlauer/)     [![Sage](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/Sage_.png) ### Sàge Gosset Paralegal Sage Gosset serves as a Financial Paralegal at our firm, bringing specialized expertise to the financial complexities that often arise during divorce. Sage…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/sage-gosset/)     [![Lei Brown](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/lei.png) ### Leipua Brown Chief Operating Officer With nearly nine years of experience in the legal field, I bring a well-rounded perspective shaped by both criminal and family law. After spending…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/leipua-brown/)     [![Sophie Mendivil](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/sophie.png) ### Sophie Mendivil Executive Assistant Sophie Mendivil serves as an Executive Assistant at our firm, providing essential support that helps keep our team running smoothly and efficiently. Sophie…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/sophie-mendivil/)     [![Kody Harvey](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/kody.png) ### Kody Harvey Financial Analyst Kody Shane Harvey grew up in Henderson, NV and he joined Brown Family Law Utah in 2022. Kody’s impressive background includes being the CFO for…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/kody-harvey/)     [### Kayelise Rhodes Billing Specialist](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/kayelise-rhodes/)     [### Abbi Barron Intake Manager Abbi Barron serves as an Intake Specialist at our firm, where she is often the first point of contact for individuals navigating one…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/abbi-barron/)     [![Carlos-Nopala-bio](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/Carlos-Nopala-bio.png) ### Carlos Nopala Intake Specialist As an Intake Specialist, Carlos Nopala plays a vital role in guiding prospective clients through their first steps toward resolution and peace of…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/carlos-nopala/)     [![Whitney Face](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/whitney-face-2.png) ### Whitney Face Intake Specialist Whitney Face was born and raised in Utah. Her connection to family law began early. She experienced her parents’ divorce as a young…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/whitney-face/)     [![Molitika-Tuione-bio](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/Molitika-Tuione-bio.png) ### Molitika Tuione Intake Specialist Molitika “Moli” Tui’one was born and raised in South Jordan, Utah, and graduated from Bingham High School in 2015. From 2016 to 2018,…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/molitika-tuione/)     [### Daniel Lee Receptionist](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/about-us/daniel-lee/)

### Work With Us

We're hiring people who believe in honesty, empathy, and great communication.

[View careers](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/careers/)         WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT

## Family Law That Feels Human

We limit the number of clients we take so we can give each person the attention they deserve.

Every family who comes to us wants the same thing: **less fear and more clarity**. We help make that possible through open communication, teamwork, and a deep commitment to protecting your children and your future.

Peace of Mind

Learn Through Collaboration

Stay Updated Every Step of the Way

Gain Strong, Compassionate Advocates

[Call Us For A Consultation](tel:+18016859999) [Learn Why We’re Different](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/contact-us/)         LEGAL INSIGHTS

## Latest Blog Posts

Whether you're worried about custody, wondering how assets get divided, or trying to understand your options, our blog breaks down complex topics into simple, practical guidance you can use right now.

[![Top Causes of Delays in Divorce Proceedings](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/top-causes-of-delays-in-divorce-proceedings.jpg) 9 min read ### Top Causes of Delays in Divorce Proceedings Divorce is often expected to follow a straightforward timeline. Many people assume that once paperwork is filed, the legal process…](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/blog/top-causes-of-delays-in-divorce-proceedings/)  [![Common Reasons Why a Judge May Deny Child Relocation](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/common-reasons-why-a-judge-may-deny-child-relocation.jpg) 9 min read #### Common Reasons Why a Judge May Deny Child Relocation](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/blog/common-reasons-why-a-judge-may-deny-child-relocation/) [![Peaceful & Collaborative Ways to Get Divorce Papers Signed](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/peaceful-and-collaborative-ways-to-get-divorce-papers-signed-768x512.jpg) 7 min read #### Peaceful & Collaborative Ways to Get Divorce Papers Signed](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/blog/peaceful-and-collaborative-ways-to-get-divorce-papers-signed/) [![Divorce and Family Law Trends Heading Into 2026](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/divorce-and-family-law-trends-heading-into-2026-768x511.jpg) 8 min read #### Divorce and Family Law Trends Heading Into 2026](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/blog/divorce-and-family-law-trends-heading-into-2026/)

### Additional Resources

![Your Guide to Understanding the Legal Process of Getting a Divorce in Utah](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/utah-divorce-faqs.png)

#### Utah Divorce FAQs

Your Guide to Understanding the Legal Process of Getting a Divorce in Utah

[GET YOUR FREE GUIDE](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/divorce-ebook/)     ![The Top 10 Divorce Mistakes](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/wp-content/uploads/the-top-10-divorce-mistakes.png)

#### The Top 10 Divorce Mistakes

Your Insider Guide to Avoiding the Most Costly Pitfalls in a Utah Divorce

[GET YOUR FREE GUIDE](https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/blog/guide-to-avoiding-the-most-costly-pitfalls-in-a-utah-divorce/)

## Frequently Asked Questions About Getting a Divorce in Utah

Honest, straightforward answers to the questions we hear most from Utah families.

The length of the divorce process can vary depending on the individual issues surrounding the divorce. In most cases, it will take a minimum of one month from the time the petitioner files for divorce before a judge signs the divorce decree, making it final due to Utah’s 30-day waiting period. Divorces that are contested, or that have several complex issues to be resolved, will often take additional time.

Divorces in Utah can be no-fault divorces or fault divorces. The grounds for divorce determine which type it will be. In most cases, couples seek a no-fault divorce because the process is simpler, faster, and less expensive.
Two of the grounds that may be listed on the petition are no-fault grounds, which include irreconcilable differences and living apart for three consecutive years without cohabitation under a decree of separate maintenance by any state.
For a fault divorce, certain grounds must be proven to file a fault divorce. The grounds can include:

- Impotency at the time of marriage
- Committing adultery
- Willful desertion by the respondent for at least a year
- Willful neglect by the respondent to provide petitioner common necessaries of life
- Habitual drunkenness of respondent
- A felony conviction
- Cruel treatment resulting in bodily injury or mental distress
- Incurable insanity

Special requirements apply to Utah divorces if there are unsettled or contested issues in the divorce or if the couple has minor children. Contested issues require that the couple go through the mediation process to try and work out as many of their issues as possible without asking a judge to make the decision. When the couple has minor children, they are required to take divorce education classes before a divorce can be issued.

The law states that at least one of the people getting the divorce needs to have lived in a single county within the state for three consecutive months before filing a divorce petition. If there is a custody issue with minor children, in most cases the children need to have resided with at least one of the parents for six months before the divorce petition is filed.

### Still Have Other Questions?

Reach out and let's talk through your situation.

[Call Us For A Consultation](tel:+18016859999)

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Source: https://www.brownfamilylaw.com/
