Divorce in Kentucky
State-specific overview · Family Law
Kentucky allows no-fault divorce after 60 days of separation or with mutual consent, without proving grounds.
How Kentucky treats Divorce
Kentucky permits divorce on no-fault grounds when spouses have lived separate and apart for 60 days or when both agree to the divorce without requiring separation time. The state also recognizes traditional fault grounds such as adultery and cruelty. Kentucky courts divide marital property equitably and may award spousal support (called "maintenance") based on factors including earning capacity, standard of living, and length of marriage.
The general definition of Divorce
The legal dissolution of a marriage, ending the spouses' rights and responsibilities to each other.
Divorce is the legal process by which a married couple ends their marriage. It involves a court officially terminating the marriage and typically requires decisions about property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support. The process can be contested, where the spouses disagree on terms, or uncontested, where they agree on the major issues. Once a divorce is finalized, both parties are free to remarry and are no longer legally responsible for each other.
Read the full Divorce entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Kentucky.