Divorce in Kentucky: An Easy-to-Follow Overview

Divorce in Kentucky can be a challenging journey. This page aims to provide a straightforward understanding of Kentucky’s divorce laws. For those who need more comprehensive details, we’ve included links to further resources.

Divorce Laws in Kentucky

Kentucky is a no-fault divorce state. The primary ground for divorce here is “irretrievable breakdown” of the marriage. To file in Kentucky, one spouse must have lived in the state for at least 180 days.

Unlike some states, Kentucky has a 60-day waiting period from filing to the finalization of the divorce.

Process of Filing for Divorce

To start a divorce in Kentucky, you file a “Petition for Dissolution of Marriage” in the family court of the county where you live. If you have children, additional paperwork may be required.

Once you’ve filed, these documents need to be legally delivered to your spouse. Remember, each county in Kentucky might have its own specific rules.

Child Custody and Support

Child custody decisions in Kentucky are made with the child’s best interests in mind. The court looks at factors like the child’s relationship with each parent, the parents’ ability to provide care, and the child’s adjustment to home and school. Child support is calculated using state guidelines, which consider both parents’ incomes and the children’s needs.

Alimony/Spousal Support

Alimony, known as spousal support in Kentucky, isn’t a given. Courts look at several factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial situation, and future earning potential. The aim is to ensure a fair financial balance for both spouses post-divorce.

Property Division

In Kentucky, marital property is divided under the “equitable distribution” principle. This means the division is fair but not necessarily equal. The court considers contributions to the marriage and each spouse’s economic circumstances.

Kentucky Divorce Resources

For more detailed information on divorce in Kentucky, please explore these links. They include helpful insights from Kentucky’s family law courts, government resources, and legal aid.

Article: How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Kentucky

Kentucky Legal Aid: https://www.klaid.org/

Kentucky Divorce Forms:

(You can find the following forms at: https://kycourts.gov/Legal-Forms/Pages/default.aspx)

1. Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (Form AOC-100)

2. Summons (Form AOC-102)

3. Proof of Service (Form AOC-133)

4. Entry of Appearance (Form AOC-135)

5. Domestic Relations Motion and Order (Form AOC-160)

6. Certificate of Dissolution of Marriage (VS-300): https://ovs.chfs.ky.gov/VS300Divorce

Additional Forms:

• Financial Disclosure Affidavit (AOC-104)
• Joint Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (AOC-125)
• Motion for Default Judgment (AOC-138) https://govt.westlaw.com/kyrules/Document/N0E840200756211DD9E2993F82B47C021?contextData=
• Income and Expense Affidavit (AOC-170)

Disclaimer

This page offers a general overview of divorce laws in Kentucky and should not be used as legal advice.