Full text of Utah Utah Code § 81-12-108 — Warrant to take physical custody of a minor child., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 81-12-108. Warrant to take physical custody of a minor child.
Effective 9/1/2025
81-12-108.
Warrant to take physical custody of a minor child.
| (1) | If a petition under this chapter contains allegations, and the court finds that there is a credible risk that the minor child is imminently likely to be wrongfully removed, the court may issue an ex parte warrant to take physical custody of the minor child. |
| (2) |
| (a) | The respondent on a petition under Subsection (1) must be afforded an opportunity to be heard at the earliest possible time after the ex parte warrant is executed, but not later than the next judicial day unless a hearing on that date is impossible. |
| (b) | In that event, the court shall hold the hearing on the first judicial day possible. |
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| (3) | An ex parte warrant under Subsection (1) to take physical custody of a minor child must:
| (a) | recite the facts upon which a determination of a credible risk of imminent wrongful removal of the minor child is based; |
| (b) | direct law enforcement officers to take physical custody of the minor child immediately; |
| (c) | state the date and time for the hearing on the petition; and |
| (d) | provide for the safe interim placement of the minor child pending further order of the court. |
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| (4) | If feasible, before issuing a warrant and before determining the placement of the minor child after the warrant is executed, the court may order a search of the relevant databases of the National Crime Information Center system and similar state databases to determine if either the petitioner or respondent has a history of domestic violence, stalking, or child abuse or neglect. |
| (5) | The petition and warrant must be served on the respondent when or immediately after the minor child is taken into physical custody. |
| (6) |
| (a) | A warrant to take physical custody of a minor child, issued by this state or another state, is enforceable throughout this state. |
| (b) | If the court finds that a less intrusive remedy will not be effective, the court may authorize law enforcement officers to enter private property to take physical custody of the minor child. |
| (c) | If required by exigent circumstances, the court may authorize law enforcement officers to make a forcible entry at any hour. |
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| (7) | If the court finds, after a hearing, that a petitioner sought an ex parte warrant under Subsection (1) for the purpose of harassment or in bad faith, the court may award the respondent reasonable attorney fees, costs, and other reasonable expenses and losses arising out of the issuance of the ex parte warrant. |
| (8) | This chapter does not affect the availability of relief allowed under the law of this state other than this chapter. |
Renumbered and Amended by Chapter
426, 2025 General Session
Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 81-12-108
What does Utah Code § 81-12-108 cover?
Section 81-12-108 ("Warrant to take physical custody of a minor child.") is part of the Utah Code, the codified statutory law of Utah. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Utah § 81-12-108?
A common citation format is "Utah Code § 81-12-108" (Utah). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Utah law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Utah official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Utah attorney.
How does Utah § 81-12-108 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Utah can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
