"The Most Trusted
Name in Online Divorce"
Exclusive
Online Divorce Partner
Best
Online Divorce Service
ADVISOR
We offer an online guided path through divorce that helps couples avoid unnecessary conflict and costs.
Written By:
Divorce.com Staff
Kentucky Divorce Laws: 10 Things You Must Know Before Filing
Filing for divorce in Kentucky requires understanding the state's specific laws and procedures. Kentucky is an equitable distribution state with no-fault divorce options. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about divorce in Kentucky, from filing requirements to final decree.
Key Facts:
Court: Kentucky Circuit Court
Filing fee: $148
Residency requirement: 180 days
Waiting period: 60 days
Property division: Equitable Distribution
Child support: Income Shares Model
Before filing for divorce in Kentucky, you must meet the state's residency requirements.
Requirement
180 days - Either you or your spouse must have been a resident of Kentucky for at least this period before filing.
Proving Residency
You may need to provide:
Kentucky driver's license or state ID
Voter registration
Utility bills showing Kentucky address
Lease or mortgage documents
Employment records
Tax returns
Military Exception
Active duty military personnel stationed in Kentucky may have different residency requirements. Check with the Circuit Court for military-specific rules.
No-Fault Only State
Kentucky is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you don't need to prove wrongdoing by your spouse.
Grounds for divorce:
Irreconcilable differences - Marriage is irretrievably broken
Incompatibility - Spouses cannot continue in marriage
No-fault divorce simplifies the process and reduces conflict. You don't need your spouse's consent or cooperation to file, though cooperation makes the process smoother and less expensive.
RETAINER FEE
PETITION
COURT FILING FEE
SUMMONS
AFFIDAVIT
MOTIONS
ARGUMENTS
TEMPORARY ORDERS
HEARINGS
SUBPOENAS
DEPOSITIONS
SETTLEMENT
CONFERENCES
JUDGEMENT
TRIAL
APPEALS
Equitable Distribution State
Kentucky follows equitable distribution, meaning property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally.
Marital property (subject to division):
Assets acquired during marriage
Income earned during marriage
Retirement benefits accrued during marriage
Increase in value of separate property if marital funds contributed
Separate property (generally not divided):
Property owned before marriage
Inheritances (kept separate)
Gifts to one spouse from third parties
Passive appreciation of separate property
Property acquired after legal separation
Factors Courts Consider
Kentucky courts examine multiple factors to determine fair division:
Duration of marriage
Age and health of spouses
Income and earning capacity
Contributions to marriage (including homemaker)
Economic circumstances of each spouse
Custody of children
Tax consequences
Other relevant factors
Equitable ≠ Equal: Fair division could be 50/50, 60/40, or another split depending on circumstances.
Best Interests Standard
Kentucky courts make all custody decisions based on the best interests of the child. This is the paramount consideration in every custody case.
Types of Custody
Legal custody - Decision-making authority about:
Education
Healthcare
Religious upbringing
Major life decisions
Physical custody - Where child primarily lives
Joint custody - Shared decision-making and/or physical time
Sole custody - One parent has primary authority
Factors Courts Consider
Kentucky courts typically examine:
Wishes of parents regarding custody
Wishes of child (if age-appropriate)
Relationship between child and each parent
Child's adjustment to home, school, community
Mental and physical health of all parties
Ability to provide stable home environment
History of domestic violence or abuse
Willingness to facilitate relationship with other parent
Geographic proximity of parents
Any other relevant factors
Parenting Time
Non-custodial parents receive parenting time (visitation). Kentucky courts presume parenting time serves child's best interests unless evidence suggests otherwise.
Typical schedules include:
Alternating weekends
Midweek visits
Split holidays and school breaks
Extended summer parenting time
Calculation Method
Kentucky uses the Income Shares Model to calculate child support.
Factors included:
Both parents' gross incomes
Number of children
Cost of health insurance for children
Childcare expenses
Parenting time schedule
Extraordinary medical or educational expenses
What Counts as Income
Wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions
Self-employment income
Rental and investment income
Unemployment and disability benefits
Workers' compensation
Social Security benefits
Retirement/pension income
Spousal support received
Duration
Child support in Kentucky typically continues until:
Child turns 18
Child graduates high school (whichever is later, often age 19 max)
Child becomes emancipated
Child joins military
Child dies
Modification
You can request modification if circumstances substantially change:
Income of either parent changed significantly
Child's needs changed
Custody arrangement changed
Other substantial change in circumstances
File a motion with the Circuit Court to request modification.
When Awarded
Spousal support (alimony) is not automatic in Kentucky. Courts consider whether support is appropriate based on multiple factors.
Common situations:
Long-term marriage (typically 10+ years)
Significant income disparity
One spouse sacrificed career for family
Health issues limit earning capacity
Recipient needs time for education/training
Factors Courts Consider
Kentucky courts examine:
Length of marriage
Age and health of spouses
Income and earning capacity of each spouse
Standard of living during marriage
Education level and job skills
Contributions to marriage (including homemaker)
Time needed to acquire education/training
Ability to pay vs. need for support
Property division awarded
Tax consequences
Other relevant factors
Types of Support
Temporary support - During divorce proceedings only
Rehabilitative support - For specified period to allow recipient to become self-supporting
Permanent support - Until remarriage, death, or court modification (reserved for long marriages or inability to become self-supporting)
Lump sum support - One-time payment (not modifiable)
Amount and Duration
Kentucky has no set formula for spousal support amount or duration. Courts have wide discretion based on the factors above. Support is highly negotiable and varies by case.
Step-by-Step Process
1. Meet Residency Requirements
Ensure you meet Kentucky's 180 days residency requirement
Gather proof of residency
2. Determine Grounds
Choose your grounds for divorce
No-fault is typically simplest
3. File Petition
File divorce petition/complaint with Circuit Court
Pay filing fee: $148
State grounds and relief sought
4. Serve Spouse
Formally serve divorce papers on spouse
Use sheriff, process server, or certified mail (depending on Kentucky rules)
Spouse typically has 20-30 days to respond
5. Temporary Orders (If Needed)
Request temporary custody, support, use of home
Court holds hearing for urgent matters
6. Discovery
Exchange financial information
Complete financial affidavits
Produce documents (bank statements, tax returns, etc.)
7. Negotiation
Negotiate settlement of all issues
Many courts require mediation
Aim to reach full agreement
8. Trial (If No Settlement)
Present evidence and testimony
Judge decides disputed issues
9. Final Decree
Judge signs final divorce decree
Divorce becomes final
Appeal period typically 30 days
Timeline
Uncontested divorce: 2-6 months typically
Contested divorce: 12-18+ months
Waiting period: 60 days
Court Filing Fees
Circuit Court filing fee: $148
This covers:
Processing your petition
Opening your case file
Court administrative costs
Additional Court Costs
Service of process: $50-$150
Certified copies: $2-$5 per page
Motion filing fees: $50-$100 each
Subpoena fees: $20-$50 each
Fee Waiver
If you cannot afford the filing fee, request a fee waiver by filing an Affidavit of Indigency. You may qualify if you:
Receive public benefits (SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, SSI)
Income below federal poverty guidelines
Paying fee creates financial hardship
Attorney Fees
Typical hourly rates in Kentucky:
$150-$400/hour depending on location and experience
Typical total costs:
DIY uncontested: $500-$1,500
Attorney-assisted uncontested: $2,000-$5,000
Contested divorce: $10,000-$50,000+
Domestic Violence
Kentucky courts take domestic violence very seriously. If abuse is present:
Obtain protective order/restraining order
Document all incidents
Seek safe housing
Domestic violence significantly affects custody decisions
Military Divorce
Special rules apply for military members:
Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) may delay proceedings
Military pensions divisible under federal law
Special jurisdiction rules
Consult military family law attorney
Business Owners
If either spouse owns a business:
Business valuation required
Marital portion subject to division
May need forensic accountant
Consider keeping business intact with other assets to non-owner spouse
High-Asset Divorce
Complex estates require additional considerations:
Multiple property appraisals
Business valuations
Complex investment analysis
Tax planning essential
Often need forensic accountants
Same-Sex Divorce
Kentucky recognizes same-sex marriages. All divorce laws apply equally regardless of gender.
1. Hiding Assets
Why it's wrong: Violates discovery rules, destroys credibility, can result in sanctions
What to do: Disclose all assets honestly and completely
2. Using Children as Pawns
Why it's wrong: Harms children, violates Kentucky custody laws, court will punish this behavior
What to do: Keep children out of conflict, facilitate relationship with other parent
3. Social Media Mistakes
Why it's wrong: Everything can be used as evidence, affects custody, shows poor judgment
What to do: Limit social media, never post about divorce or spouse
4. Violating Temporary Orders
Why it's wrong: Contempt of court, possible jail time, damages your case
What to do: Follow all court orders precisely
5. Moving Out Without Strategy
Why it's wrong: Can appear as abandonment, lose access to home, may affect custody
What to do: Consult attorney before moving out, get written agreement
6. Making Large Purchases or Transfers
Why it's wrong: May violate automatic restraining orders, wastes marital assets, bad faith
What to do: Avoid major financial decisions during divorce
7. Refusing to Negotiate
Why it's wrong: Trial is expensive ($20K-$50K+), lose control over outcome, creates lasting animosity
What to do: Negotiate in good faith, consider mediation, compromise on smaller issues
We've helped with
over 1 million divorces
We provide everything you need to get divorced — from conflict resolution to filing support and access to divorce experts — in one comprehensive, convenient online platform.
The team at divorce.com was responsive and helpful during a difficult process. I would highly recommend the site for uncomplicated, amicable divorces!!
Jen B.
I came across this online. So I checked on it. It was easy and affordable. I wish I would have found this years ago.
Brandy D.
I was able to read it easily. Thanks God for this service. I will recommend it to anyone who asks this is a very easy step to do. I love it please try it you won't be disappointed
Dianna R.
Great customer service. Questions were easy to answer and had descriptions to understand the questions.
Andelain R.
Proudly featured in these publications
Real Answers. Real Support.
We're here to guide you through every step of divorce — whether you're just starting to explore your options or ready to take the next step. Our blog offers expert insights, practical tips, and real-life stories to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Upfront pricing at a fraction of the cost of traditional divorce
Divorce doesn’t have to cost as much as a car.
Our Services
Paperwork Only
Basic access to divorce paperwork where you handle the rigorous filing process with the court.
POPULAR
We File For You
Our most popular package includes a dedicated case manager, automated court filing, spouse signature collection, and personalized documentation.
Fully Guided
Complete divorce support including mediation sessions, dedicated case management, court filing, and personalized documentation.
"The Most Trusted
Name in Online Divorce"
Exclusive
Online Divorce Partner
Best
Online Divorce Service
ADVISOR
We offer a guided path through divorce that helps avoid unnecessary conflict and costs.
Written By:
Divorce.com Staff
Kentucky Divorce Laws: 10 Things You Must Know Before Filing
Filing for divorce in Kentucky requires understanding the state's specific laws and procedures. Kentucky is an equitable distribution state with no-fault divorce options. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about divorce in Kentucky, from filing requirements to final decree.
Key Facts:
Court: Kentucky Circuit Court
Filing fee: $148
Residency requirement: 180 days
Waiting period: 60 days
Property division: Equitable Distribution
Child support: Income Shares Model
Before filing for divorce in Kentucky, you must meet the state's residency requirements.
Requirement
180 days - Either you or your spouse must have been a resident of Kentucky for at least this period before filing.
Proving Residency
You may need to provide:
Kentucky driver's license or state ID
Voter registration
Utility bills showing Kentucky address
Lease or mortgage documents
Employment records
Tax returns
Military Exception
Active duty military personnel stationed in Kentucky may have different residency requirements. Check with the Circuit Court for military-specific rules.
No-Fault Only State
Kentucky is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you don't need to prove wrongdoing by your spouse.
Grounds for divorce:
Irreconcilable differences - Marriage is irretrievably broken
Incompatibility - Spouses cannot continue in marriage
No-fault divorce simplifies the process and reduces conflict. You don't need your spouse's consent or cooperation to file, though cooperation makes the process smoother and less expensive.
RETAINER FEE
PETITION
COURT FILING FEE
SUMMONS
AFFIDAVIT
MOTIONS
ARGUMENTS
TEMPORARY ORDERS
HEARINGS
SUBPOENAS
DEPOSITIONS
SETTLEMENT
CONFERENCES
JUDGEMENT
TRIAL
APPEALS
RETAINER FEE
PETITION
COURT FILING FEE
SUMMONS
AFFIDAVIT
MOTIONS
ARGUMENTS
TEMPORARY ORDERS
HEARINGS
SUBPOENAS
DEPOSITIONS
SETTLEMENT
CONFERENCES
JUDGEMENT
TRIAL
APPEALS
Equitable Distribution State
Kentucky follows equitable distribution, meaning property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally.
Marital property (subject to division):
Assets acquired during marriage
Income earned during marriage
Retirement benefits accrued during marriage
Increase in value of separate property if marital funds contributed
Separate property (generally not divided):
Property owned before marriage
Inheritances (kept separate)
Gifts to one spouse from third parties
Passive appreciation of separate property
Property acquired after legal separation
Factors Courts Consider
Kentucky courts examine multiple factors to determine fair division:
Duration of marriage
Age and health of spouses
Income and earning capacity
Contributions to marriage (including homemaker)
Economic circumstances of each spouse
Custody of children
Tax consequences
Other relevant factors
Equitable ≠ Equal: Fair division could be 50/50, 60/40, or another split depending on circumstances.
Best Interests Standard
Kentucky courts make all custody decisions based on the best interests of the child. This is the paramount consideration in every custody case.
Types of Custody
Legal custody - Decision-making authority about:
Education
Healthcare
Religious upbringing
Major life decisions
Physical custody - Where child primarily lives
Joint custody - Shared decision-making and/or physical time
Sole custody - One parent has primary authority
Factors Courts Consider
Kentucky courts typically examine:
Wishes of parents regarding custody
Wishes of child (if age-appropriate)
Relationship between child and each parent
Child's adjustment to home, school, community
Mental and physical health of all parties
Ability to provide stable home environment
History of domestic violence or abuse
Willingness to facilitate relationship with other parent
Geographic proximity of parents
Any other relevant factors
Parenting Time
Non-custodial parents receive parenting time (visitation). Kentucky courts presume parenting time serves child's best interests unless evidence suggests otherwise.
Typical schedules include:
Alternating weekends
Midweek visits
Split holidays and school breaks
Extended summer parenting time
Calculation Method
Kentucky uses the Income Shares Model to calculate child support.
Factors included:
Both parents' gross incomes
Number of children
Cost of health insurance for children
Childcare expenses
Parenting time schedule
Extraordinary medical or educational expenses
What Counts as Income
Wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions
Self-employment income
Rental and investment income
Unemployment and disability benefits
Workers' compensation
Social Security benefits
Retirement/pension income
Spousal support received
Duration
Child support in Kentucky typically continues until:
Child turns 18
Child graduates high school (whichever is later, often age 19 max)
Child becomes emancipated
Child joins military
Child dies
Modification
You can request modification if circumstances substantially change:
Income of either parent changed significantly
Child's needs changed
Custody arrangement changed
Other substantial change in circumstances
File a motion with the Circuit Court to request modification.
When Awarded
Spousal support (alimony) is not automatic in Kentucky. Courts consider whether support is appropriate based on multiple factors.
Common situations:
Long-term marriage (typically 10+ years)
Significant income disparity
One spouse sacrificed career for family
Health issues limit earning capacity
Recipient needs time for education/training
Factors Courts Consider
Kentucky courts examine:
Length of marriage
Age and health of spouses
Income and earning capacity of each spouse
Standard of living during marriage
Education level and job skills
Contributions to marriage (including homemaker)
Time needed to acquire education/training
Ability to pay vs. need for support
Property division awarded
Tax consequences
Other relevant factors
Types of Support
Temporary support - During divorce proceedings only
Rehabilitative support - For specified period to allow recipient to become self-supporting
Permanent support - Until remarriage, death, or court modification (reserved for long marriages or inability to become self-supporting)
Lump sum support - One-time payment (not modifiable)
Amount and Duration
Kentucky has no set formula for spousal support amount or duration. Courts have wide discretion based on the factors above. Support is highly negotiable and varies by case.
Step-by-Step Process
1. Meet Residency Requirements
Ensure you meet Kentucky's 180 days residency requirement
Gather proof of residency
2. Determine Grounds
Choose your grounds for divorce
No-fault is typically simplest
3. File Petition
File divorce petition/complaint with Circuit Court
Pay filing fee: $148
State grounds and relief sought
4. Serve Spouse
Formally serve divorce papers on spouse
Use sheriff, process server, or certified mail (depending on Kentucky rules)
Spouse typically has 20-30 days to respond
5. Temporary Orders (If Needed)
Request temporary custody, support, use of home
Court holds hearing for urgent matters
6. Discovery
Exchange financial information
Complete financial affidavits
Produce documents (bank statements, tax returns, etc.)
7. Negotiation
Negotiate settlement of all issues
Many courts require mediation
Aim to reach full agreement
8. Trial (If No Settlement)
Present evidence and testimony
Judge decides disputed issues
9. Final Decree
Judge signs final divorce decree
Divorce becomes final
Appeal period typically 30 days
Timeline
Uncontested divorce: 2-6 months typically
Contested divorce: 12-18+ months
Waiting period: 60 days
Court Filing Fees
Circuit Court filing fee: $148
This covers:
Processing your petition
Opening your case file
Court administrative costs
Additional Court Costs
Service of process: $50-$150
Certified copies: $2-$5 per page
Motion filing fees: $50-$100 each
Subpoena fees: $20-$50 each
Fee Waiver
If you cannot afford the filing fee, request a fee waiver by filing an Affidavit of Indigency. You may qualify if you:
Receive public benefits (SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, SSI)
Income below federal poverty guidelines
Paying fee creates financial hardship
Attorney Fees
Typical hourly rates in Kentucky:
$150-$400/hour depending on location and experience
Typical total costs:
DIY uncontested: $500-$1,500
Attorney-assisted uncontested: $2,000-$5,000
Contested divorce: $10,000-$50,000+
Domestic Violence
Kentucky courts take domestic violence very seriously. If abuse is present:
Obtain protective order/restraining order
Document all incidents
Seek safe housing
Domestic violence significantly affects custody decisions
Military Divorce
Special rules apply for military members:
Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) may delay proceedings
Military pensions divisible under federal law
Special jurisdiction rules
Consult military family law attorney
Business Owners
If either spouse owns a business:
Business valuation required
Marital portion subject to division
May need forensic accountant
Consider keeping business intact with other assets to non-owner spouse
High-Asset Divorce
Complex estates require additional considerations:
Multiple property appraisals
Business valuations
Complex investment analysis
Tax planning essential
Often need forensic accountants
Same-Sex Divorce
Kentucky recognizes same-sex marriages. All divorce laws apply equally regardless of gender.
1. Hiding Assets
Why it's wrong: Violates discovery rules, destroys credibility, can result in sanctions
What to do: Disclose all assets honestly and completely
2. Using Children as Pawns
Why it's wrong: Harms children, violates Kentucky custody laws, court will punish this behavior
What to do: Keep children out of conflict, facilitate relationship with other parent
3. Social Media Mistakes
Why it's wrong: Everything can be used as evidence, affects custody, shows poor judgment
What to do: Limit social media, never post about divorce or spouse
4. Violating Temporary Orders
Why it's wrong: Contempt of court, possible jail time, damages your case
What to do: Follow all court orders precisely
5. Moving Out Without Strategy
Why it's wrong: Can appear as abandonment, lose access to home, may affect custody
What to do: Consult attorney before moving out, get written agreement
6. Making Large Purchases or Transfers
Why it's wrong: May violate automatic restraining orders, wastes marital assets, bad faith
What to do: Avoid major financial decisions during divorce
7. Refusing to Negotiate
Why it's wrong: Trial is expensive ($20K-$50K+), lose control over outcome, creates lasting animosity
What to do: Negotiate in good faith, consider mediation, compromise on smaller issues
We've helped with
over 1 million divorces
We provide everything you need to get divorced — from conflict resolution to filing support and access to divorce experts — in one comprehensive, convenient online platform.
The team at divorce.com was responsive and helpful during a difficult process. I would highly recommend the site for uncomplicated, amicable divorces!!
Jen B.
I came across this online. So I checked on it. It was easy and affordable. I wish I would have found this years ago.
Brandy D.
I was able to read it easily. Thanks God for this service. I will recommend it to anyone who asks this is a very easy step to do. I love it please try it you won't be disappointed
Dianna R.
Great customer service. Questions were easy to answer and had descriptions to understand the questions.
Andelain R.
Proudly featured in these publications
Upfront pricing at a fraction of the cost of traditional divorce
Divorce doesn’t have to cost as much as a car.
Real Answers. Real Support.
We're here to guide you through every step of divorce — whether you're just starting to explore your options or ready to take the next step. Our blog offers expert insights, practical tips, and real-life stories to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Our Services
Paperwork Only
Basic access to divorce paperwork where you handle the rigorous filing process with the court.
POPULAR
We File For You
Our most popular package includes a dedicated case manager, automated court filing, spouse signature collection, and personalized documentation.
Fully Guided
Complete divorce support including mediation sessions, dedicated case management, court filing, and personalized documentation.
