How to File for Divorce in Utah Without a Lawyer (2026 Guide)

Overview: Filing for Divorce in Utah Without a Lawyer

Utah requires 90 days residency with a 90-day waiting period (waivable with mutual consent). The state uses equitable distribution and requires divorce education for couples with children. DIY divorce is feasible for uncontested cases.

Can You File Without a Lawyer in Utah?

✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:

Both agree on divorce and all terms
No minor children or agreement on custody/support
Agreement on property and debt division
No spousal support disputes
Willing to waive waiting period if both agree

⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:

Child custody or support disputes
Complex property division
Significant assets
Retirement account division
Contested grounds

Find Utah Divorce Lawyers →

Step-by-Step: How to File for Divorce in Utah

Step 1

Verify 90-Day Residency

You or your spouse must have lived in Utah for 90 days.

⏱ Estimated Time: N/A

💡 Tips:

UT driver's license
Lease or property deed
Utility bills

Step 2

Complete Petition for Divorce

File Petition for Divorce with district court.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-3 hours

💡 Tips:

Filing fee: $325-375
Use UT court forms
State irreconcilable differences

Step 3

Serve Your Spouse

Serve spouse by process server or sheriff.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-2 weeks

💡 Tips:

Cannot serve yourself
Spouse can waive service

Step 4

File Answer (if uncontested)

Spouse files answer agreeing to divorce.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1 week

💡 Tips:

Required for uncontested

Step 5

Complete Divorce Education

Both complete Utah-required divorce education course (if children).

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

💡 Tips:

Required for divorces with children
Can be online
Certificate required

Step 6

Wait 90 Days or Waive

90-day waiting period (waivable with both parties' written consent).

⏱ Estimated Time: 0-90 days

💡 Tips:

Can waive if both agree in writing

Step 7

Exchange Financial Disclosures

Both complete and exchange financial information.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

💡 Tips:

Required disclosure
List all assets and debts

Step 8

Prepare Marital Settlement Agreement

Create settlement addressing all issues.

⏱ Estimated Time: 4-6 hours

💡 Tips:

Address property division
Include parenting plan if children

Step 9

File Final Documents

Submit settlement and final documents.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

💡 Tips:

Both signatures required

Required Forms for Utah Divorce

Petition for Divorce (Varies)

Required

📄 Download Form

Marital Settlement Agreement (Custom)

Required

Final Judgment (Varies)

Required

Note: Always use the most current forms from your state's court website. Forms may be updated periodically.

Cost Breakdown for Utah DIY Divorce

💰 DIY Divorce

$375-475

Filing fee: $325-375
Service fee: $50-100
Misc costs: $25-$100

👔 With Attorney

$3,000-15,000

Includes attorney fees, court costs, and filing fees for uncontested to contested cases

For detailed cost breakdown including attorney fees and scenarios: View Utah Divorce Costs →

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Not meeting 90-day residency

Missing divorce education if children

Incomplete financial disclosures

Not addressing all property

Missing settlement details

Frequently Asked Questions About Utah DIY Divorce

Is divorce education required in Utah?

Yes, both parents must complete a divorce education course if the divorce involves minor children. Can be online.

Can I waive the 90-day waiting period in Utah?

Yes, if both parties agree in writing to waive the waiting period, divorce can be finalized faster.

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Utah?

Yes, Utah allows self-representation for uncontested divorces. Court forms are available.

Need Professional Help?

While DIY divorce can save money in Utah, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.

Find Utah Divorce Lawyers Questions to Ask a Lawyer