Navigating Parenting Disputes Between Divorced Parents in Utah: Including Religious Differences

Common Parenting Disputes After Divorce

Even with a detailed parenting plan, conflicts can arise around issues like:

• Medical decisions (e.g., vaccinations, mental health treatment)
• Education (public vs. private school, IEPs, tutoring)
• Extracurricular activities
• Discipline and household rules
• Technology use and screen time
• Time-sharing adjustments during holidays, vacations, or family events
• Religious beliefs and practices

When these issues aren’t clearly addressed in a custody order, they can lead to misunderstandings—or even legal action.

Religious Disputes Between Divorced Parents

Religious differences are particularly sensitive because they’re tied to personal identity, values, and family tradition. Disputes often involve:

• Whether a child should attend religious services
• Which religion should the child be raised in
• Participation in sacraments, baptisms, or religious education
• Observing holidays or dietary restrictions
• Exposure to religious beliefs that one parent does not support

In Utah, where religion plays a significant role in many families, these disputes are not uncommon—and the law seeks to balance parental rights with the child’s best interests.

What Utah Courts Say About Religion and Custody

Utah courts do not favor one religion over another, and they typically will not interfere with how each parent chooses to practice their faith during their own parenting time—unless there’s evidence the child is being harmed.

In joint legal custody situations, both parents typically have equal say in religious decisions. If they cannot agree, the court may:

• Allow each parent to expose the child to their own religion separately
• Appoint one parent final decision-making authority over religious matters
• Evaluate whether one parent’s approach is more consistent with the child’s needs or established routine
• Restrict certain practices only if they are deemed harmful to the child’s well-being

Ultimately, the court’s guiding principle is always the best interest of the child.

How to Handle Religious and Parenting Disputes Constructively

Whether you’re dealing with religious differences or any other parenting conflict, consider these practical steps:

• Communicate respectfully – Focus on the child’s needs, not personal grievances.
• Refer to your parenting plan – It may already include guidance on legal decision-making.
• Seek mediation – A neutral third party can help resolve disagreements without going to court.
• Document concerns – If you believe the dispute may require legal intervention, keep records.
• Be flexible when possible – Courts appreciate parents who cooperate in good faith.

How We Can Help

At Daniel W. McKay & Associates, PLLC, we help Utah families:

• Interpret and enforce custody and parenting agreements
• Resolve religious and parenting disputes through negotiation or mediation
• Modify custody orders when conflicts affect the child’s well-being
• Represent you in court when necessary to protect your parental rights

We believe in solutions that respect both parents and prioritize the child’s stability, security, and emotional health.