Legal Question in Family Law in Utah

Verbal Abuse from Step Mom

Situation: My youngest daughter (8) is constantly being demeaned by her step mom (this, according to both her and my two oldest 13 and 16). Because the girls feel loyalty to their father, they do not want to cause problems by bringing this abuse to his attention. In the past, their feelings have come up, and I have openly discussed this situation with their dad. He feels bad, and yet nothing seems to be changing.

The youngest described her abuse last night by saying ''she treats me like an animal''. I asked her what that means, and she said that she yells at her all the time, and ignores her and doesnt love her. The older daughters agreed.

I am primary custodian, but we are both legal guardians. What are my rights if this situation escalates? What can I do now? As far as I know, no physical abuse has happened. How serious is verbal abuse under the law?

Thank You


Asked on 12/16/02, 10:31 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Alvin Lundgren Alvin R. Lundgren, L.C.

Re: Verbal Abuse from Step Mom

Before a court will intervene you will need some evidence of the abuse. This can come from a psychiatrist, counselor or witnesses. (Older children may be witnesses, but the courts want to avoid involving children as much as possible.) Before you consider legal action, have a talk with your husband and even step-mom if possible. The realities of your situation require that for the least stress on the children is to have all of you agree on parenting issues. If you cannot negotiate a cooperative parenting plan, you may want to consider counseling. I suggest the Sugarhouse Family Counseling center. They have a good program for parents in your circumstances to create good cooperative parenting plans.

In the meantime, try to get dad to spend more time with your daughter while in the presence of step-mom. Perhaps stepmom will respect him enough to not be so abusive.

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Answered on 12/16/02, 9:14 pm


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