Requirements for an Uncontested Divorce in Kentucky

To qualify for an uncontested divorce (called “dissolution of marriage”) in Kentucky , the following must apply:
 

1. Residency: 

   • At least one spouse must have lived in Kentucky for 180 days (6 months) before filing.
      

2. Grounds for Divorce 

   • Kentucky is a no-fault divorce state.

   • You only need to state that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” No blame or fault must be proven.
      

3. Separation Requirement

   • Living in the same house is okay as long as you're not acting as a married couple.

   • You and your spouse must have lived apart for at least 60 days before the divorce can be finalized.
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4. Full Agreement

   • You and your spouse must agree on all major terms:

   • Division of property and debts

   • Spousal support (alimony)

   • Child custody and visitation (if applicable)

   • Child support

Steps to File for an Uncontested Divorce:

1. Complete the Required Forms

Forms vary slightly by county, but typical documents include:

• Petition for Dissolution of Marriage

• Case Data Sheet

• Marital Settlement Agreement

• Financial Disclosure Forms

• Parenting Plan and Child Support Worksheet (if you have children)

• Final Decree of Dissolution
  
  Download forms from:
  https://kycourts.gov (search for "divorce forms")
  Or get a packet at your local Circuit Court Clerk’s Office.
   

2. File the Petition

• File your completed forms in the Circuit Court in the county where either spouse lives.

• Pay the filing fee, which is typically $115–$200, depending on the county.

• Ask about a fee waiver if you can’t afford to pay (file a Motion to Proceed In Forma Pauperis

3. Serve Your Spouse (if not filing jointly)

• If you're the sole filer, your spouse must be served officially.

• If both parties agree, your spouse can sign an Entry of Appearance and Waiver, which waives formal service.

4. Wait the 60 Days

• You must wait at least 60 days from the date of separation before a judge will finalize the divorce.

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5. Submit Final Paperwork / Attend Hearing

• File the signed Settlement Agreement and Decree of Dissolution.

• Some counties require a brief final hearing, others may finalize your case on paperwork alone.
   

6. Divorce Finalized

• Once the judge signs the Decree of Dissolution, your divorce is complete.

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Cost Considerations

• Filing Fee: $115–$200 (varies by county)
   

• Attorney Flat Fee: $500–$1,200 for uncontested cases
   

• Online Divorce Services: Typically $150–$350
   

• Fee Waiver: Available via In Forma Pauperis Motion