Utah law

Elder Laws in Utah.

Utah elder-law practice covers Medicaid long-term care planning, powers of attorney, advance directives, guardianships through the District Court, nursing home resident rights, and Adult Protective Services. Utah follows the federal 60-month Medicaid lookback. Utah Department of Human Services administers Adult Protective Services. Utah has enhanced penalties for abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults.

Last verified: 2026-04-17

State law

Key Utah Statutes

Guardianship and ConservatorshipUtah Code § 75-5-301 et seq.

Guardianship of incapacitated adults is adjudicated in District Court. Utah has adopted UPC Article 5 provisions. Annual reporting required.

Utah Uniform Power of Attorney ActUtah Code § 75-9-101 et seq.

Utah has adopted the Uniform Power of Attorney Act. Powers may be durable and continue through principal's incapacity.

Advance Health Care Directive ActUtah Code § 75-2a-101 et seq.

Authorizes combined advance health-care directives (living will plus health-care agent designation).

Medicaid Long-Term Care42 U.S.C. § 1396p; UT DHS rules

Federal 60-month lookback on asset transfers. Utah administers Medicaid through the Department of Health and Human Services.

Adult Protective ServicesUtah Code § 62A-3-301 et seq.

APS investigates reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of vulnerable adults (18+ with specified disabilities or 65+). Certain professionals are mandated reporters.

Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation of Vulnerable AdultsUtah Code § 76-5-111

Criminal statute with felony penalties that escalate based on the specific conduct and resulting harm.

State law

Official Sources

UT Department of Health and Human Services Utah Code

Not Legal Advice

This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Utah.

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Elder Laws in Utah.

Key Utah Statutes

Official Sources

Not Legal Advice

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