Some people ask us if a step parent is obligated to support stepchildren financially during marriage or after a divorce. The short answer is no. Although most stepparents live with and voluntarily support their step children financially, in Utah stepparents have no legal obligation to do so during or after marriage. There are some states in the U.S. with laws that make stepparents financially responsible for step children during the marriage of the parent and the stepparent. In the past Utah was included amongst those states and could require a stepparent to support his or her spouse’s children financially during marriage, but not after divorce; however this law was repealed years ago, so don’t be confused.
801-466-9277 | eric@divorceutah.com