Divorce in Kentucky: Laws, Requirements, and Process
A complete guide to getting a divorce in Kentucky. Covers grounds, residency requirements, property division, alimony, child custody, and what to expect from the process.
Data last updated: Apr 16, 2026Key Takeaways
- Property division: Equitable distribution.
- Residency requirement: 180 days in the state.
- Waiting period: 60 days from filing.
- Filing fee: $150 - $200.
Grounds for Divorce
Kentucky allows no-fault divorce. The no-fault ground is: Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.
Kentucky is a pure no-fault state. No fault-based grounds are available.
Residency Requirements
180 days in the state.
Property Division
Kentucky is an equitable distribution state. Kentucky follows equitable distribution. Courts divide marital property fairly based on the contribution of each spouse to the acquisition of marital property, the value of each spouse's separate property, the duration of the marriage, and the economic circumstances of each spouse.
Alimony / Spousal Support
Kentucky courts may award maintenance when a spouse lacks sufficient property to provide for their reasonable needs and is unable to support themselves through employment. Courts consider the financial resources of the requesting spouse, the time needed for education or training, the standard of living during the marriage, the duration of the marriage, and the ability of the other spouse to pay.
Child Custody
Kentucky courts determine custody based on the best interest of the child. The state encourages joint custody and equal parenting time. Factors include the wishes of the child and parents, the child's relationship with each parent, the child's adjustment to home and school, and the mental and physical health of all individuals.
Child Support
Kentucky uses the income shares model. Child support guidelines consider both parents' combined monthly adjusted gross incomes, the number of children, and additional expenses for health insurance, childcare, and extraordinary costs.
Filing Fee
The filing fee for divorce in Kentucky is $150 - $200. Fee waivers may be available for those who cannot afford to pay.
Kentucky court divorce resources
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the grounds for divorce in Kentucky?
Kentucky is a pure no-fault divorce state. The only ground for dissolution of marriage is the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. Fault-based grounds are not recognized.
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How long do you have to live in Kentucky to file for divorce?
At least one spouse must have been a resident of Kentucky for at least 180 days before filing the petition for dissolution of marriage.
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How is property divided in a Kentucky divorce?
Kentucky uses equitable distribution. Courts divide marital property fairly based on each spouse's contributions, the length of the marriage, and the economic circumstances of each party. Only marital property is subject to division.
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How long does a divorce take in Kentucky?
Kentucky has a 60-day waiting period from the date of filing. Uncontested divorces can be finalized in approximately 60 to 90 days. Contested cases may take 6 months to over a year.