Utah Abortion Laws
By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last reviewed December 22, 2022
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Summary
Abortion is legal in Utah until 18 weeks of pregnancy.
Introduction
Abortion is one of the most controversial topics and, sadly, is often used as a pawn in political games. No matter what your personal feelings on the subject are, it’s good to know what the law is in your state.
In June 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court overruled Roe v. Wade in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, which returned to the states the power to regulate, even prohibit, abortion.
In 2020, Utah passed a "trigger ban" prohibiting most abortions. That statute was effective should the Supreme Court overrule, in whole or in part, Roe v. Wade (as has happened). That law has been temporarily blocked by a judge. For now, Utah bans most abortions after 18 weeks of pregnancy.
Utah Abortion Laws at a Glance
State laws affecting access to abortion services are complex and vary quite a bit among states. It can be confusing to determine your rights under the law, especially with all of the legal jargon. The following table outlines the main parts of Utah's trigger ban. This area of the law is highly fluid.
| Code Sections |
|
| Statutory Definition of Illegal Abortion | An abortion is the intentional termination or attempted termination of a human pregnancy after implantation of a fertilized ovum through a medical procedure carried out by a physician, unless: necessary to prevent the mother's death or a serious risk of a substantial impairment of a major bodily function; rape; incest reported to law enforcement; uniformly fatal fetal defect or anomaly |
| Penalty for Unlawful Abortion | Second-degree felony |
| Physician Licensing Requirements |
A licensed physician, either a medical doctor or osteopath doctor, must provide abortion services and the attending physician must concur with the procedure. |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Research the Law
Utah Abortion Laws: Related Resources
Need Help Understanding Utah's Abortion Laws? An Attorney Can Help
If you're facing an unwanted pregnancy, you likely have a lot to figure out besides the mechanics of the law. A licensed attorney can help you navigate the law and provide you with the information you need to make the right decision for you and your family. Get started today by contacting a Utah health care attorney near you.
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