Taylor Frankie Paul and Dakota Mortensen Ordered to Maintain 100-Foot Distance Following Court Hearing

Reality television personalities Taylor Frankie Paul and Dakota Mortensen made appearances at the Third District Courthouse in Salt Lake City on Thursday, April 30, for a hearing centered on protective orders. Taylor's parents accompanied her to the proceeding.

Both cast members from The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives sought protective orders against each other following domestic violence allegations that emerged earlier in 2026. During the hearing, the judge established that the pair must maintain a distance of 100 feet from one another for the next three years. While these are civil orders rather than criminal ones, violations could result in arrest.

Commissioner Russell Minas addressed the situation directly, stating: "This is a very toxic relationship. If I don't order both of them to stay away from each other, there will be additional problems."

The custody situation involving their two-year-old son, Ever, will proceed under the existing arrangement, with Dakota retaining sole custody and Taylor maintaining visitation rights. The commissioner emphasized the importance of effective co-parenting, telling them: "I'm hoping you're not just people who thrive on drama and conflict. You have to put your child first."

According to the attorney representing Ever's interests, the Utah Division of Child and Family Services has requested that both parents complete mental health assessments and domestic violence evaluations.

The court appearance comes as production on season five of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives resumes following a March pause connected to the conflict between the two cast members. While earlier reports suggested neither would continue with the show, sources indicate that the decision regarding Taylor's participation remains in her hands.