Legal Help for Single Mothers in Utah
Last updated: September 2025
Legal Help for Single Mothers in Utah
This hub gives you fast, practical steps to handle urgent legal problems and to plan next moves. Utah has solid free and low‑cost options, but phone lines get busy and funding ebbs and flows. Use the statewide court resources at the Utah State Courts Self‑Help Center and the nonprofit network led by Utah Legal Services (ULS) to get guided help, and save the crisis hotline for safety issues through the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition (UDVC) LINKLine. Call to confirm wait times and availability before you go. (utcourts.gov)
If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take
- Call a lawyer hotline now if you have court papers or a hearing date: Use the Utah State Courts Self‑Help Center for forms and deadlines, and ask for a referral to a clinic or attorney; if it’s a family‑violence matter, ask for direct help from Utah Legal Services or Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake. Expect phone holds during 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Mon–Fri; keep trying or email/text. (utcourts.gov)
- Stop a shutoff or eviction clock today: For power/gas bills, ask about crisis help through Utah’s HEAT (LIHEAP) program and new SB 288 bill‑credit support, starting with HEAT/LIHEAP and the state utility advocates at the Division of Public Utilities and Office of Consumer Services; for eviction notices, read the court’s step‑by‑step pages and call Utah Legal Services for defense. If you’ve been served, you have only three business days to answer. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
- If you’re unsafe, get protection right away: Call 1‑800‑897‑LINK (5465) via UDVC for 24/7 safety planning and shelter placement, and use the courts’ guided forms for a Cohabitant Abuse/Dating/Sexual Violence Protective Order. In Salt Lake County, contact Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake; outside SL County, contact Utah Legal Services. (utahadopt.org)
Quick Help Box – Numbers and Links to Keep Handy
- Court Self‑Help Center: 1‑888‑683‑0009 — Utah State Courts SHC; text 801‑742‑1898; email selfhelp@utcourts.gov. (utcourts.gov)
- Statewide Legal Clinics and Reduced‑Cost Help: Check Utah Legal Help for free clinics and Licensed Lawyer for attorney referrals; note the state’s Modest Means referral is paused until Fall 2025. (utahlegalhelp.org)
- Domestic Violence Hotline: 1‑800‑897‑5465 — UDVC LINKLine and court pages for Protective Orders. (womenslaw.org)
- Child Support / Paternity: 1‑801‑536‑8500 — Utah Office of Recovery Services (ORS); online calculator and apply links via Calculate Child Support and Apply for Child Support. (ors.utah.gov)
- Utah 211 – Community Services: Dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑888‑826‑9790 — search at 211 Utah for rent, food, child care, and legal aid referrals. (211utah.org)
Where to Start: Utah’s Core Legal Help Network
Start with the free statewide Utah State Courts Self‑Help Center to understand your deadlines and paperwork, then connect to a provider that can represent you, like Utah Legal Services or Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake. If you need help drafting forms, courts now use MyPaperwork to replace the old OCAP tool. (utcourts.gov)
The courts list live clinics by region, including the Timpanogos Legal Center (TLC) Family Justice Center and regular university‑run clinics via the Pro Bono Initiative (PBI). If your income is too high for free help, the State Bar’s Licensed Lawyer directory lets you filter for sliding‑scale or limited‑scope options, and the Modest Means Program is temporarily paused with plans to reopen in Fall 2025. (utcourts.gov)
Quick table: Start here
| Program/site | What they do | How to reach | Typical timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Utah Courts Self‑Help Center | Forms, deadlines, process info | 1‑888‑683‑0009; text 801‑742‑1898; email | Replies same day by phone/text hours 11 a.m.–5 p.m. |
| Utah Legal Services | Free civil legal help statewide | 1‑801‑328‑8891 SLC; 1‑800‑662‑4245 | Intake 9 a.m.–2 p.m.; expect 15–40 minutes for intake |
| Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake | Family law and protective orders (SL County) | 1‑801‑328‑8849 | Same‑week callbacks; court‑day triage at Matheson |
| Timpanogos Legal Center | Family law brief‑advice clinics | 1‑801‑649‑8895 | Weekly clinics; hotline 9 a.m.–2 p.m. |
| Utah Legal Help | Clinic calendar; referrals | Online directory | Varies by clinic |
Sources include court and program pages; call first for current hours. (utcourts.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Try a university clinic through the Pro Bono Initiative (PBI), use the Bar’s Licensed Lawyer filters for unbundled services, or ask 2‑1‑1 for a local legal clinic. If you can’t reach hotlines during peak hours, email and ask for a callback. (utcourts.gov)
How to Get a Protective Order in Utah Today
If you’re in danger, call 911. For immediate support and confidential safety planning, call the 24/7 UDVC LINKLine at 1‑800‑897‑5465, then use the courts’ page for Protective Orders to choose the right order. If you live in Salt Lake County, Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake can represent you; outside SL County, contact Utah Legal Services for representation. (womenslaw.org)
Utah offers multiple orders depending on your relationship and facts. You can file free with court help, shelters, or online via MyPaperwork for Cohabitant Abuse/Dating/Sexual Violence Protective Orders and Civil Stalking Injunctions. Service is free by law enforcement, and judges can issue ex parte orders the same day. (utcourts.gov)
Table: Which Utah order fits your situation?
| Order type | Who it’s for | How to file | Cost | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cohabitant Abuse Protective Order | Current/former spouse, partner, roommate, relative, or co‑parent | Use MyPaperwork, courthouse, or shelter | No filing fee | Ex parte possible same day; full hearing ~20 days |
| Dating Violence Protective Order | Dating partner who abused you | Same as above | No filing fee | Similar timeline as cohabitant orders |
| Sexual Violence Protective Order | Not a cohabitant/dating partner; sexual violence | Same as above | No filing fee | Ex parte possible |
| Civil Stalking Injunction | Stalking, regardless of relationship | Same as above | No filing fee | Ex parte possible |
| Child Protective Order | For a minor victim | Juvenile court forms; must report to DCFS first | No filing fee | Ex parte review usually same day |
Shelters and clinics (like Timpanogos Legal Center) help prepare filings and safety plans, and the Safe at Home program can hide your address on public records and court filings. Bring any police reports, screenshots, and messages as proof when you file. (timplegal.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Utah State Courts Self‑Help Center for steps, ask UDVC to connect you to a regional victim advocate, and request “address confidentiality” through Safe at Home to reduce risks while you try again. (utcourts.gov)
How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Utah Today
Call your power or gas company first and request a payment plan. Then apply for crisis HEAT help through Utah’s LIHEAP program; current FY2025 benefits range from 190–190–850 regular and up to $2,000 crisis, with public inquiries at 1‑866‑205‑4357. Also ask about SB 288 low‑income bill credits if you’re with Dominion Energy or Rocky Mountain Power; HEAT enrollment will trigger those credits automatically for many families. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
If the company won’t help, file an informal complaint with the Division of Public Utilities at 1‑800‑874‑0904 or 801‑530‑7622; DPU typically gets a response within five business days. You can also ask the Office of Consumer Services for guidance on customer protections and referrals. Keep copies of your notice, account number, and any medical letters in case you need a hold. (dpu.utah.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Re‑apply with HEAT via jobs.utah.gov/mycase/web/heat/app, call 2‑1‑1 for emergency funds, and ask DPU about filing a formal complaint with the Public Service Commission if the utility isn’t following rules. Document every call date, name, and outcome for your record. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
Utah Eviction: Fast Deadlines and Realistic Timelines
Read your notice type to know your deadline. For nonpayment, you usually get three business days to pay or move. If the landlord files a case and serves you, you have only three business days to file your Answer with the court. Missing these deadlines can lead to a quick lockout. (utcourts.gov)
Use the court’s tenant page and forms for evictions, then get free help from Utah Legal Services or People’s Legal Aid. Many areas offer mediation through Utah Community Action’s Landlord‑Tenant Mediation and nonprofits like Utah Dispute Resolution. If you’ve already moved and the case was dismissed, Utah now supports faster eviction expungement in some situations. (utahlegalservices.org)
Table: Utah eviction quick view
| Step | Your deadline | What to do | Where to get help |
|---|---|---|---|
| Notice (e.g., 3 business days to pay or vacate) | 3 business days for nonpayment | Pay in full, move, or get a signed repayment plan | Courts—Tenant Info, ULS |
| Summons and Complaint served | 3 business days to Answer | File Answer; request mediation; bring proof | Courts—Answer Help, PBI Clinics |
| Hearing / Possession bond | Often within days | Ask for hearing; explore bond options | Courts—Tenant |
| Order of Restitution | Often 3 calendar days to vacate | Move belongings; avoid treble damages | ULS Eviction Guides |
| Expungement options | 120 days post‑dismissal in some cases | Use expungement forms if eligible | Courts—Eviction Expungement |
Utah courts confirm “three business days” to answer an eviction complaint and explain how to count days and request hearings. If your entire case was dismissed, the legislature shortened the wait to 120 days after dismissal for automatic expungement in some cases effective May 1, 2024. Always check your case status and ask about stipulations to expunge sooner when possible. (utcourts.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for mediation with Utah Community Action or Utah Dispute Resolution, and apply for rent help or moving support via 211 Utah. For impossible conditions (no heat, sewage), consider a “repair‑and‑deduct” option under the Utah Fit Premises Act—but follow the statute to the letter. (utahca.org)
Repairs, Lockouts, and Utah’s Fit Premises Act
When housing conditions threaten health or violate your lease, Utah law lets you send a written “notice of deficient condition.” For habitability problems, the owner gets three calendar days to correct; for lease‑required repairs, 10 calendar days. After that, you may use “repair and deduct” (up to two months’ rent) or seek rent abatement, but you must follow the statute exactly and keep receipts. (law.justia.com)
Use the court’s landlord‑tenant pages to check forms and timelines, and ask Utah Legal Services about defense and strategy if you get a retaliatory notice. If the landlord locks you out without a court order, that’s illegal—call local police and get legal help. Keep a log, photos, and copies of written notices. (utcourts.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: File in small claims for damages or code violations. Utah’s small‑claims limit is $20,000 for cases filed on or after January 1, 2025; check the Justice Court in your county for filing fees and forms. If retaliation is suspected, get advice before filing. (findlaw.com)
Child Support, Paternity, and Custody Basics (Civil)
Apply with the Utah Office of Recovery Services (ORS) to establish and collect support and medical coverage; ORS can also establish paternity and enforce orders. Calculate an estimate using the ORS Child Support Calculator before you file, then use MyPaperwork or court forms to finalize custody and parent‑time in district court. ORS does not represent either parent; it represents the State. (ors.utah.gov)
Utah’s child support guidelines use both parents’ gross income and are updated on a four‑year cycle; the 2025 review is in progress, with current tables effective since January 1, 2023. Bring pay stubs and last year’s tax return; support can be modified when income or custody changes. Call ORS at 1‑801‑536‑8500 for case questions, and read the guidelines page for verification rules. (ors.utah.gov)
Table: Child support quick facts
| Task | Where to do it | Typical time/notes |
|---|---|---|
| Open a support case | ORS Apply or online application | 2–4 weeks for intake; faster if all documents included |
| Estimate support | ORS Calculator | Immediate estimate; not final |
| Modify support | File motion in court; ask ORS about review | 30–90+ days depending on court calendar |
| Enforce order | ORS income withholding, liens | Ongoing; varies by employer response |
What to do if this doesn’t work: Get a custody/parent‑time order through MyPaperwork and ask a clinic to review your draft. For complex cases (relocations, domestic violence), seek counsel via Licensed Lawyer. (utcourts.gov)
Money, Work, and School Issues
If your employer owes wages, file a claim with the state’s Utah Labor Commission Wage Claim Unit or ask about discrimination with the Antidiscrimination and Labor Division. Keep pay stubs and your timeline; for overtime questions, the federal U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division handles FLSA claims in Utah. You can also seek small‑claims relief for up to $20,000 in unpaid wages or debts. (laborcommission.utah.gov)
If your child needs special education help or you face an IEP dispute, call the Utah Parent Center for free parent training and contact the Utah State Board of Education to request mediation or a complaint. For disability discrimination or access issues, the Disability Law Center offers free statewide legal help. Document meetings, requests, and evaluations in writing. (utahparentcenter.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for mediation through Utah Dispute Resolution or the school’s IEP facilitation process, then seek legal advice via Utah Legal Services. For urgent income help, apply for child care support at DWS and search verified providers via myDoorway Child Care. (utahdisputeresolution.org)
Court Fees, Fee Waivers, and Forms
Most civil cases require a filing fee, but Utah waives fees when you meet certain criteria, receive means‑tested benefits, or can’t meet basic needs. Use the courts’ Fees and Fee Waiver page for the correct Motion to Waive Fees and attach proof (SNAP/TANF/Medicaid, income, clinic letter). You can also ask to waive the MyPaperwork form fee. (utcourts.gov)
Keep an eye on filing fees in your case type and county. For reference, the courts list statewide fee schedules and will accept fee‑waiver motions at filing; if denied, you can submit a follow‑up memorandum within the stated time. The clerk can explain process but cannot give legal advice; ask the Self‑Help Center for help understanding the forms. (utcourts.gov)
Table: Utah fee‑waiver snapshots
| Who may qualify | Income example | Forms to use | Where to file |
|---|---|---|---|
| Receiving SNAP/Medicaid/SSI/TANF | Proof of benefits | Motion to Waive Fees | With your initial filing |
| Very low income | Court’s monthly thresholds | Same as above, full 10‑page version | Same day with filing |
| Expungement of civil PO/stalking/eviction | Income thresholds or need | Expungement fee‑waiver forms | With expungement packet |
Amounts and forms change; always use the current court page. (utcourts.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a clinic to co‑sign a fee‑waiver support letter, or re‑file with more detail about bills, child care, and rent. Use Utah Legal Services or the Self‑Help Center for a second look. (utahlegalservices.org)
Criminal Records and Clean Slate
Utah’s Clean Slate law is now auto‑sealing eligible records without an application, and BCI posts processing updates; many petition‑based expungements still require a Certificate of Eligibility through the Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI). As of July 1, 2025, BCI increased some fees, and it publishes active processing dates so you can gauge wait times. Never pay any caller claiming to be “BCI” for a warrant—report scams. (bci.utah.gov)
For tenants, Utah added faster expungement paths for evictions that resolve favorably; check the courts’ evictions expungement page and ask the other side to stipulate when possible. You can prepare forms with the Self‑Help Center. (utcourts.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a clinic for help with the petition packet and fee waiver; check whether any charges qualify for auto‑expungement first to save money. Use BCI’s expungement status and appointment links before you go. (bci.utah.gov)
Diverse Communities: Tailored Help and Access
LGBTQ+ single mothers: For safety planning, the gender‑inclusive UDVC LINKLine will place you at affirming shelters and clinics, and the courts’ protective‑order pages apply regardless of gender identity. For name or gender‑marker changes, file through MyPaperwork; ask for a fee waiver and an interpreter if needed. Many clinics (like Utah Dispute Resolution) offer services in Spanish and can accommodate interpreters—ask for language access at intake. (womenslaw.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Call the Disability Law Center for free legal help on access, housing, and school rights, and ask the Utah State Board of Education for IEP mediation or a complaint. If you need child care to work or attend training, apply for subsidies through myDoorway Child Care Assistance or call DWS at 1‑866‑435‑7414; eligibility limits are higher than many programs, and interpreters/TTY are available. (disabilitylawcenter.org)
Veteran single mothers: For consumer, debt, and landlord issues, the Utah@EASE referral connects veterans to pro‑bono legal services; for benefits claims, contact the Utah Department of Veterans & Military Affairs or attend a VA legal clinic in Salt Lake City or St. George. Ask for survivors’ benefits guidance and housing resources if you’ve recently separated. (veterans.utah.gov)
Immigrant and refugee single moms: You can get immigration legal help at Catholic Community Services and through the Utah Immigration Collaborative helpline at 1‑801‑382‑9027; both serve victims of crime, trafficking, and domestic violence. For broader resettlement supports and classes, contact the Utah Refugee Center (DWS) and check the IRC’s citizenship supports. Ask for interpreters or translated materials as needed. (ccsutah.org)
Tribal‑specific resources: Coordinate with the Utah Division of Indian Affairs for state‑tribal resource navigation, and contact DNA—People’s Legal Services if you’re Navajo Nation or live in San Juan County and need civil legal help. For Ute families in the Uintah Basin, check your tribal offices first and ask about court and CFR resources. (indian.utah.gov)
Rural single moms: Ask about phone/Zoom legal clinics via the Self‑Help Center and Pro Bono Initiative. For agriculture‑related disputes or small business issues, the state’s Agricultural Mediation Program offers free or low‑cost mediation statewide. Call for large‑print applications or mailed packets if your internet is limited. (utcourts.gov)
Single fathers: The services above are gender‑inclusive. Use Utah Legal Services for custody and parent‑time, and ORS for support and paternity. Ask clinics about father‑focused classes through 211 listings. (utahlegalservices.org)
Language access: The courts will arrange free interpreters for hearings; request one as soon as you file or get a notice. The Utah State Courts interpreter pages explain scheduling cycles. For everyday calls with state agencies, dial 711 for Relay Utah; DWS and Medicaid list language access contact points on their sites. (utcourts.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the Self‑Help Center to flag your need for an interpreter and call back by text or email. If you need address safety, enroll in Safe at Home to use a substitute address with all agencies. (utcourts.gov)
Resources by Region
Each region has different clinics and shelters. Use Utah Courts Legal Clinics to find dates, and call 211 Utah for current bed space and mediation lines.
- Salt Lake County: Family‑law and DV help through Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake; eviction/mediation support via Utah Community Action and clinics at the U of U Pro Bono Initiative; emergency shelter via The Road Home and the Homeless Services Line 1‑801‑990‑9999. (legalaidsocietyofsaltlake.org)
- Utah County: Weekly family‑law clinics through Timpanogos Legal Center, with walk‑ins in Provo; use ULS for protection orders and custody guidance; mediation help through local providers listed at Utah Dispute Resolution. (timplegal.org)
- Weber/Davis: Contact YCC Ogden for clinic appointments and Safe Harbor Crisis Center for 24/7 DV help; legal clinics rotate in Ogden via TLC and courts’ calendar. Use ULS for housing and custody advice. (timplegal.org)
- Washington County (St. George): Ask about the SUBA “Talk to a Lawyer” clinic on the 2nd Wed/4th Tue via the courts’ list, and DV support through DOVE Center and 211. Check ULS for family and housing help. (utcourts.gov)
- Cache/Box Elder/Rich: Clinics at CAPSA and New Hope Crisis Center run with TLC; call ahead for dates. Use Utah Courts Clinics for schedules and ULS for representation. (timplegal.org)
- Uintah Basin/Eastern Utah: Check 211 for local mediators; tribal households contact tribal legal services first, and use the statewide Self‑Help Center for forms by email/text. (211utah.org)
- Central/San Juan: TLC runs periodic Zoom clinics; email for applications. For Navajo Nation areas, contact DNA People’s Legal Services. (timplegal.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a clinic is full, ask to be placed on the cancellation list and email your documents for review. Ask 211 for nearby counties’ clinics that accept out‑of‑county callers. (211utah.org)
Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups
Lean on regional services that know courtrooms and landlords. In SL County, YWCA Utah and The Road Home provide shelter, case management, and court advocacy; in Davis, Safe Harbor Crisis Center offers 24/7 DV help with shelter and legal navigation. For mediation and rent talks, call Utah Community Action. (ywcautah.org)
Statewide, add Utah Dispute Resolution for sliding‑scale mediation and community classes, and use 211 Utah to locate faith‑based rent/utility help near you. For immigration‑related protection and visas (U/T/VAWA), consider Catholic Community Services and the Utah Immigration Collaborative. (utahdisputeresolution.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the Self‑Help Center for a list of clinics you can attend by phone if you live far away, and call 2‑1‑1 early in the day to catch same‑day openings. (utcourts.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the 3‑business‑day Answer window: Utah eviction cases move fast—file an Answer or risk a default. Use the tenant help page and ask the Self‑Help Center to review. (utcourts.gov)
- Relying on hearsay or verbal “deals”: Get repayment plans or custody agreements in writing. Use Utah Dispute Resolution or Utah Community Action Mediation to document agreements courts respect. (utahdisputeresolution.org)
- Using unsafe addresses: If someone is stalking or abusing you, enroll in Safe at Home and list the substitute address on all filings and benefits. The courts have specific steps for participants. (safeathome.utah.gov)
- Waiting to apply for HEAT until shutoff day: Benefits and credits take time. Call HEAT/LIHEAP early and loop in the Division of Public Utilities if you’re denied options. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
Reality Check
Funding and staffing shift across Utah’s legal‑aid network. The Bar’s Modest Means referrals are paused until Fall 2025, so plan for clinics, sliding‑scale lawyers via Licensed Lawyer, or limited‑scope arrangements. Utah is also tightening oversight of nontraditional legal providers in its “sandbox,” so verify any service offers through official lists and the courts’ pages. (utahbar.org)
Court calendars can take weeks. If you filed a fee waiver or expungement, track status and expect longer processing during high‑volume periods; BCI posts current expungement dates online. Always ask for written confirmation of filings. (bci.utah.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Court help lines: Self‑Help Center (SHC) 1‑888‑683‑0009; text 801‑742‑1898; email selfhelp@utcourts.gov. Use for forms, deadlines, and referrals. (utcourts.gov)
- Family safety: UDVC LINKLine 1‑800‑897‑5465; Protective Orders—Courts for types and filing. (womenslaw.org)
- Eviction: Tenant steps—Courts; defense via Utah Legal Services. (utcourts.gov)
- Utility shutoff: HEAT/LIHEAP Utah 1‑866‑205‑4357; complaints via Division of Public Utilities 1‑800‑874‑0904; customer advocacy via Office of Consumer Services 801‑530‑6674. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
- Child support: ORS Child Support 1‑801‑536‑8500; Calculator. (ors.utah.gov)
Application Checklist (Printable / Screenshot‑Friendly)
- Court papers and dates: Copies of notices, Summons/Complaint, and any hearing dates; get forms from Utah Courts. (utcourts.gov)
- ID and proof: Photo ID; lease; bills; pay stubs/taxes; messages/screenshots for DV or custody; store safely with a friend or cloud. Use Safe at Home if needed. (safeathome.utah.gov)
- Income/benefit records: SNAP/TANF/Medicaid letters for fee‑waiver; child support payment history from ORS. (ors.utah.gov)
- Utilities: Past‑due notices; account numbers; doctor’s letter if medical equipment is at home; apply through HEAT/LIHEAP. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
- Child care so you can attend court/work: Find and verify providers via myDoorway Child Care and ask DWS about approval steps. (mydoorway.utah.gov)
Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied
If a program denies your case for “missing documents,” ask for the exact list and deadline in writing, then upload or hand‑deliver. For court fee‑waiver denials, re‑file using the 10‑day memorandum option on the Fee Waiver page and attach bills. For HEAT crisis denials, call the Division of Public Utilities to mediate while you re‑apply. (utcourts.gov)
If ORS can’t find the other parent, ask about locate tools and proceed with court filings for custody via MyPaperwork. For disability access issues, escalate to the Disability Law Center. Document every call and keep copies. (utcourts.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Seek a second opinion at a legal clinic or through the Self‑Help Center. If timelines are blowing up, ask the court for continuance forms and notify the other party. (utcourts.gov)
County‑Specific Variations You Should Know
Small‑claims filing amounts and local procedures vary slightly by Justice Court. As of January 1, 2025, the statewide small‑claims cap is 20,000,butfeesandcalendarsdiffer—checkyourcounty’sJusticeCourt(forexample,SaltLakeCountyliststhe20,000, but fees and calendars differ—check your county’s Justice Court (for example, Salt Lake County lists the 20,000 cap and its fee schedule). For eviction hearings, some courts set quick possession hearings—watch your mail and online calendar. (findlaw.com)
Shelter access is coordinated county‑by‑county. In Salt Lake County, the Homeless Services Line is 1‑801‑990‑9999 through The Road Home; in Cache, CAPSA routes requests; in Davis, Safe Harbor manages placements. Call 2‑1‑1 for active openings. (theroadhome.org)
FAQs (Utah‑Specific)
- How fast can I get a protective order signed: Judges can issue an ex parte order the same day you file if risk is present. File through MyPaperwork or at a courthouse/shelter; call UDVC to find the nearest advocate. Follow with a full hearing in about two weeks. (utcourts.gov)
- What if I already got served with an eviction Summons and Complaint: File your Answer within three business days. Use the court’s tenant page and ask Utah Legal Services for defense. Missing the deadline risks default and a 3‑day lockout. (utcourts.gov)
- Can I get my eviction record sealed: If your case was dismissed or paid and the landlord doesn’t object, the court can expunge. Automatic expungement may happen as soon as 120 days after dismissal for qualifying cases filed after July 1, 2022. See the courts’ eviction expungement page. (utcourts.gov)
- What’s the small‑claims limit now: Claims filed on or after Jan 1, 2025, can be up to $20,000. Check your Justice Court page for fees and filing steps (e.g., Salt Lake County). (findlaw.com)
- How do I get child support started or changed: Open a case with ORS, then use the Calculator to estimate. Courts set or modify final orders; ORS enforces payments and medical support. (ors.utah.gov)
- I need child care to work—can the state help: Yes. Apply for child care help through myDoorway or call DWS at 1‑866‑435‑7414. Income limits are higher than other programs, and you must pick an approved provider. (mydoorway.utah.gov)
- How do I stop a power/gas shutoff this week: Call your utility, apply for HEAT/LIHEAP, and ask about SB 288 credits. If denied, call the Division of Public Utilities at 1‑800‑874‑0904. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
- I’m afraid to put my address on court forms: Enroll in Safe at Home to get a legal substitute address and instructions for court filings. Court staff will accept your Safe at Home authorization card. (safeathome.utah.gov)
- Where can I get free mediation: Try Utah Dispute Resolution or your local community action agency like Utah Community Action. Ask your court for a referral to eviction mediation. (utahdisputeresolution.org)
- I need an interpreter or large‑print forms: Tell the Self‑Help Center when you call or text. Courts provide interpreters and can email forms for printing in large font. (utcourts.gov)
Tables You Can Screenshot
Protective Order vs. Stalking vs. Child PO (recap)
| Feature | Cohabitant/Dating/Sexual Violence POs | Civil Stalking Injunction | Child Protective Order |
|---|---|---|---|
| Relationship needed | Varies by type | None required | For minors |
| Filing cost | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Where to file | District court / MyPaperwork | District court / MyPaperwork | Juvenile court |
| Help | ULS, LASSL | TLC | Courts—Child PO |
Eviction deadlines you cannot miss
| Document you got | Your response due | Where to file/ask |
|---|---|---|
| 3‑business‑day nonpayment notice | Pay or move within 3 business days | Tenant page |
| Summons and Complaint | File Answer within 3 business days | Answer help |
| Possession bond notice | Ask for hearing within 3 business days | Court forms |
Utility shutoff prevention—one‑page plan
| Step | Who to contact | Proof to prepare |
|---|---|---|
| Payment plan request | Your utility | Bill; income; medical letter |
| Crisis energy help | HEAT/LIHEAP 1‑866‑205‑4357 | ID; income; bill |
| File complaint if stuck | DPU Complaint Line 1‑800‑874‑0904 | Dates, names, results |
Child support essentials
| Action | Online tool | Live help |
|---|---|---|
| Estimate support | ORS Calculator | ORS 1‑801‑536‑8500 |
| Open case | ORS Apply | Local ORS office |
| Modify order | Court forms / attorney | Self‑Help Center |
Fee Waiver—do I qualify
| You receive… | Likely eligible? | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| SNAP/Medicaid/SSI/TANF | Yes | File Motion to Waive Fees |
| Very low monthly income | Maybe | File full 10‑page motion; attach bills |
| Expungement case | Maybe | Use expungement waiver forms |
Spanish Summary (Resumen en Español)
Esta sección en español fue creada con herramientas de traducción por IA. Verifique siempre la información con las fuentes oficiales enlazadas.
- Para formularios y ayuda del tribunal, contacte al Centro de Autoayuda de los Tribunales de Utah (línea 1‑888‑683‑0009, texto 801‑742‑1898). Pida un intérprete gratis para su audiencia y pregunte por formularios en español. (utcourts.gov)
- Si hay violencia doméstica, llame a la línea 24/7 UDVC LINKLine 1‑800‑897‑5465 y presente una Orden de Protección (sin costo). Si vive en el condado de Salt Lake, llame a Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake; en otros condados, Utah Legal Services. (womenslaw.org)
- Para evitar corte de luz o gas, solicite ayuda de emergencia HEAT/LIHEAP al 1‑866‑205‑4357 y, si es necesario, presente una queja con la División de Servicios Públicos 1‑800‑874‑0904. Pregunte por créditos SB 288. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
- En desalojos, use la página de Inquilinos de los Tribunales; solo hay tres días hábiles para responder. Pida ayuda a Utah Legal Services. (utcourts.gov)
- Para manutención de menores, abra un caso con ORS y use la Calculadora. (ors.utah.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Utah State Courts Self‑Help Center
- Utah Legal Services
- Utah State Bar (Licensed Lawyer & Modest Means)
- Utah Office of Recovery Services (Child Support)
- Utah Division of Public Utilities & Office of Consumer Services
- LIHEAP Clearinghouse—Utah profile
- Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI)
- Utah Domestic Violence Coalition (LINKLine)
- Safe at Home (address confidentiality)
- 211 Utah
Last verified September 2025, next review January 2026.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This content is for general information, not legal advice. Laws, funding levels, and court procedures change. Verify deadlines and benefits with the Utah State Courts, your local clerk, or a licensed attorney via the Utah State Bar. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or the UDVC LINKLine at 1‑800‑897‑5465. (utcourts.gov)
What to do if this whole page still doesn’t solve your problem
Email or text the Utah Courts Self‑Help Center with your exact deadline and attach any papers; ask for next steps and the closest clinic that can review your forms by phone. Then call 211 Utah to add referrals for shelter, utility help, child care, and local transportation so you can get to court. (utcourts.gov)
Note on formatting: Wherever this guide mentioned a program, resource, or organization, we included an inline descriptive link so you can click directly to the official page. All links are italicized for visibility as requested.
🏛️More Utah Resources for Single Mothers
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