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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

Kentucky Online Divorce

Kentucky Divorce Guide 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Process Online Divorce

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Kentucky Child Support Calculator | Income Shares Model

Kentucky Property Division | Equitable Distribution Calculator

Divorce Cost in Lexington, KY (2026 Guide)

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File for Divorce in Kentucky Without a Lawyer (2026)

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Kentucky Child Custody Laws 2026: Complete Legal Guide

Kentucky Parenting Plan Template & Requirements (2026)

Kentucky Divorce FAQ: 50 Questions Answered

Kentucky Divorce by County: All 120 Counties

Washington County Divorce Guide: Springfield, Kentucky Filing

Webster County Divorce Guide: Dixon, Kentucky Filing

Whitley County Divorce Guide: Williamsburg, Kentucky Filing

Woodford County Divorce Guide: Versailles, Kentucky Filing

Mercer County Divorce Guide: Harrodsburg, Kentucky Filing

Metcalfe County Divorce Guide: Edmonton, Kentucky Filing

Monroe County Divorce Guide: Tompkinsville, Kentucky Filing

Montgomery County Divorce Guide: Mt. Sterling, Kentucky Filing

Morgan County Divorce Guide: West Liberty, Kentucky Filing

Muhlenberg County Divorce Guide: Greenville, Kentucky Filing

Nelson County Divorce Guide: Bardstown, Kentucky Filing

Ohio County Divorce Guide: Hartford, Kentucky Filing

Oldham County Divorce Guide: La Grange, Kentucky Filing

Owen County Divorce Guide: Owenton, Kentucky Filing

Pendleton County Divorce Guide: Falmouth, Kentucky Filing

Perry County Divorce Guide: Hazard, Kentucky Filing

Pike County Divorce Guide: Pikeville, Kentucky Filing

Powell County Divorce Guide: Stanton, Kentucky Filing

Pulaski County Divorce Guide: Somerset, Kentucky Filing

Rockcastle County Divorce Guide: Mount Vernon, Kentucky Filing

Rowan County Divorce Guide: Morehead, Kentucky Filing

Russell County Divorce Guide: Jamestown, Kentucky Filing

Scott County Divorce Guide: Georgetown, Kentucky Filing

Shelby County Divorce Guide: Shelbyville, Kentucky Filing

Simpson County Divorce Guide: Franklin, Kentucky Filing

Spencer County Divorce Guide: Taylorsville, Kentucky Filing

Taylor County Divorce Guide: Campbellsville, Kentucky Filing

Todd County Divorce Guide: Elkton, Kentucky Filing

Trigg County Divorce Guide: Cadiz, Kentucky Filing

Trimble County Divorce Guide: Bedford, Kentucky Filing

Union County Divorce Guide: Morganfield, Kentucky Filing

Warren County Divorce Guide: Bowling Green, Kentucky Filing

Jefferson County Divorce Guide: Louisville, Kentucky Filing

Jessamine County Divorce Guide: Nicholasville, Kentucky Filing

Johnson County Divorce Guide: Paintsville, Kentucky Filing

Kenton County Divorce Guide: Covington, Kentucky Filing

Knott County Divorce Guide: Hindman, Kentucky Filing

Knox County Divorce Guide: Barbourville, Kentucky Filing

LaRue County Divorce Guide: Hodgenville, Kentucky Filing

Laurel County Divorce Guide: London, Kentucky Filing

Lawrence County Divorce Guide: Louisa, Kentucky Filing

Lee County Divorce Guide: Beattyville, Kentucky Filing

Leslie County Divorce Guide: Hyden, Kentucky Filing

Letcher County Divorce Guide: Whitesburg, Kentucky Filing

Lewis County Divorce Guide: Vanceburg, Kentucky Filing

Lincoln County Divorce Guide: Stanford, Kentucky Filing

Livingston County Divorce Guide: Smithland, Kentucky Filing

Logan County Divorce Guide: Russellville, Kentucky Filing

Lyon County Divorce Guide: Eddyville, Kentucky Filing

Madison County Divorce Guide: Richmond, Kentucky Filing

Magoffin County Divorce Guide: Salyersville, Kentucky Filing

Marion County Divorce Guide: Lebanon, Kentucky Filing

Marshall County Divorce Guide: Benton, Kentucky Filing

Martin County Divorce Guide: Inez, Kentucky Filing

Mason County Divorce Guide: Maysville, Kentucky Filing

McCracken County Divorce Guide: Paducah, Kentucky Filing

McCreary County Divorce Guide: Whitley City, Kentucky Filing

McLean County Divorce Guide: Calhoun, Kentucky Filing

Meade County Divorce Guide: Brandenburg, Kentucky Filing

Clinton County Divorce Guide: Albany, Kentucky Filing

Crittenden County Divorce Guide: Marion, Kentucky Filing

Daviess County Divorce Guide: Owensboro, Kentucky Filing

Estill County Divorce Guide: Irvine, Kentucky Filing

Fayette County Divorce Guide: Lexington, Kentucky Filing

Fleming County Divorce Guide: Flemingsburg, Kentucky Filing

Floyd County Divorce Guide: Prestonsburg, Kentucky Filing

Franklin County Divorce Guide: Frankfort, Kentucky Filing

Fulton County Divorce Guide: Hickman, Kentucky Filing

Gallatin County Divorce Guide: Warsaw, Kentucky Filing

Garrard County Divorce Guide: Lancaster, Kentucky Filing

Grant County Divorce Guide: Williamstown, Kentucky Filing

Graves County Divorce Guide: Mayfield, Kentucky Filing

Grayson County Divorce Guide: Leitchfield, Kentucky Filing

Greenup County Divorce Guide: Greenup, Kentucky Filing

Hancock County Divorce Guide: Hawesville, Kentucky Filing

Hardin County Divorce Guide: Elizabethtown, Kentucky Filing

Harlan County Divorce Guide: Harlan, Kentucky Filing

Harrison County Divorce Guide: Cynthiana, Kentucky Filing

Hart County Divorce Guide: Munfordville, Kentucky Filing

Henderson County Divorce Guide: Henderson, Kentucky Filing

Henry County Divorce Guide: New Castle, Kentucky Filing

Hickman County Divorce Guide: Clinton, Kentucky Filing

Hopkins County Divorce Guide: Madisonville, Kentucky Filing

Jackson County Divorce Guide: McKee, Kentucky Filing

Adair County Divorce Guide: Columbia, Kentucky Filing

Allen County Divorce Guide: Franklin, Kentucky Filing

Anderson County Divorce Guide: Lawrenceburg, Kentucky Filing

Barren County Divorce Guide: Glasgow, Kentucky Filing

Bath County Divorce Guide: Owingsville, Kentucky Filing

Bell County Divorce Guide: Pineville, Kentucky Filing

Boone County Divorce Guide: Burlington, Kentucky Filing

Bourbon County Divorce Guide: Paris, Kentucky Filing

Boyd County Divorce Guide: Catlettsburg, Kentucky Filing

Boyle County Divorce Guide: Danville, Kentucky Filing

Bracken County Divorce Guide: Brooksville, Kentucky Filing

Breckinridge County Divorce Guide: Hardinsburg, Kentucky Filing

Bullitt County Divorce Guide: Shepherdsville, Kentucky Filing

Butler County Divorce Guide: Morgantown, Kentucky Filing

Caldwell County Divorce Guide: Princeton, Kentucky Filing

Calloway County Divorce Guide: Murray, Kentucky Filing

Campbell County Divorce Guide: Newport, Kentucky Filing

Carroll County Divorce Guide: Carrollton, Kentucky Filing

Carter County Divorce Guide: Grayson, Kentucky Filing

Casey County Divorce Guide: Liberty, Kentucky Filing

Christian County Divorce Guide: Hopkinsville, Kentucky Filing

Clark County Divorce Guide: Winchester, Kentucky Filing

Clay County Divorce Guide: Manchester, Kentucky Filing

Wayne County Divorce Guide: Monticello, Kentucky Filing

Wolfe County Divorce Guide: Campton, Kentucky Filing

Menifee County Divorce Guide: Frenchburg, Kentucky Filing

Nicholas County Divorce Guide: Carlisle, Kentucky Filing

Owsley County Divorce Guide: Booneville, Kentucky Filing

Robertson County Divorce Guide: Mt. Olivet, Kentucky Filing

Cumberland County Divorce Guide: Burkesville, Kentucky Filing

Edmonson County Divorce Guide: Brownsville, Kentucky Filing

Elliott County Divorce Guide: Sandy Hook, Kentucky Filing

Green County Divorce Guide: Greensburg, Kentucky Filing

Ballard County Divorce Guide: Wickliffe, Kentucky Filing

Breathitt County Divorce Guide: Jackson, Kentucky Filing

Carlisle County Divorce Guide: Bardwell, Kentucky Filing

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Brandy D.
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Dianna R.
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Andelain R.

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Written By:

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Kentucky Divorce Laws: 10 Things You Must Know Before Filing

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.

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.

Get started

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.

Traditional Divorce

$25-$30k

Divorce.com

$499

$1,999

Get started

Featured Article
The Ultimate Guide
to Getting Started in Your Divorce
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Kentucky Divorce Laws: 10 Things You Must Know Before Filing

Requirement

Proving Residency

Military Exception

No-Fault Only State

Equitable Distribution State

Factors Courts Consider

Best Interests Standard

Types of Custody

Factors Courts Consider

Parenting Time

Calculation Method

What Counts as Income

Duration

Modification

When Awarded

Factors Courts Consider

Types of Support

Amount and Duration

Step-by-Step Process

Timeline

Court Filing Fees

Additional Court Costs

Fee Waiver

Attorney Fees

Domestic Violence

Military Divorce

Business Owners

High-Asset Divorce

Same-Sex Divorce

1. Hiding Assets

2. Using Children as Pawns

3. Social Media Mistakes

4. Violating Temporary Orders

5. Moving Out Without Strategy

6. Making Large Purchases or Transfers

7. Refusing to Negotiate

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The Ultimate Guide to Getting Started in Your Divorce

10 Things to Know Before Starting Your Divorce

Divorce Process with Divorce.com

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Kentucky Divorce Laws: 10 Things You Must Know Before Filing

Requirement

Proving Residency

Military Exception

No-Fault Only State

Equitable Distribution State

Factors Courts Consider

Best Interests Standard

Types of Custody

Factors Courts Consider

Parenting Time

Calculation Method

What Counts as Income

Duration

Modification

When Awarded

Factors Courts Consider

Types of Support

Amount and Duration

Step-by-Step Process

Timeline

Court Filing Fees

Additional Court Costs

Fee Waiver

Attorney Fees

The Ultimate Guide
to Getting Started in Your Divorce