Separation Agreements

Settling by agreement

Any part of a divorce — or all of it — can be resolved by written agreement and entered as a stipulated decree. Utah also recognizes separate maintenance for spouses who need court orders without divorcing.

What a complete agreement covers

• Division of all property and all debts, with accounts and legal descriptions
• Custody, a full parent-time schedule, and child support under the guidelines
• Alimony — amount, duration, and the events that end it
• Insurance, taxes, and who prepares the QDRO

An agreement is only as good as its enforceability: vague terms invite motion practice for years. Drafting is where the value is.

Common questions

Is a signed agreement binding before the decree? Courts generally enforce fair, disclosed stipulations, but the decree is what makes it an order. Get it entered.

Can we share one lawyer? One lawyer cannot represent both spouses. One drafts; the other should get independent review.