How to File for Divorce in Kentucky Without a Lawyer (2026 Guide)

Overview: Filing for Divorce in Kentucky Without a Lawyer

Kentucky requires 180 days residency with a 60-day waiting period. The state is pure no-fault using equitable distribution. DIY divorce is achievable for straightforward uncontested cases.

Can You File Without a Lawyer in Kentucky?

✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:

Both agree to divorce
No minor children or agreement on custody/support
Agreement on property division
No spousal support disputes
Both willing to cooperate

⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:

Child custody or support disputes
Complex property division
Significant marital assets
Retirement accounts
Spouse contests

Find Kentucky Divorce Lawyers →

Step-by-Step: How to File for Divorce in Kentucky

Step 1

Verify 180-Day Residency

Either spouse must have lived in Kentucky for 180 days before filing.

⏱ Estimated Time: N/A

💡 Tips:

Kentucky driver's license
Voter registration
Utility bills

Step 2

Complete Petition for Dissolution

Fill out Petition for Dissolution of Marriage.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-3 hours

💡 Tips:

Filing fee: $150-200
State irretrievable breakdown
Use Kentucky court forms

Step 3

File with Circuit Court

Submit petition to circuit court in your county.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1 day

💡 Tips:

Bring original + copies
Pay filing fee
Get case number

Step 4

Serve Your Spouse

Have spouse served by authorized person.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-2 weeks

💡 Tips:

Cannot serve yourself
Sheriff or process server
Spouse can waive service

Step 5

Wait 60 Days

Kentucky requires 60-day waiting period from service.

⏱ Estimated Time: 60 days

💡 Tips:

Cannot finalize earlier
Prepare settlement

Step 6

Exchange Financial Disclosures

Both complete Verified Disclosure Statements.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

💡 Tips:

Required by Kentucky law
List all assets and debts
Must be accurate

Step 7

Draft Settlement Agreement

Create comprehensive separation agreement.

⏱ Estimated Time: 4-6 hours

💡 Tips:

Address all marital property
Include custody if children
Both must sign and notarize

Step 8

Attend Hearing

Appear before judge for final hearing.

⏱ Estimated Time: 30-60 minutes

💡 Tips:

Both should attend
Bring all documents
Answer judge's questions

Step 9

Receive Decree

Court issues Decree of Dissolution.

⏱ Estimated Time: Immediately

💡 Tips:

Request certified copies
Effective immediately

Required Forms for Kentucky Divorce

Petition for Dissolution (AOC-250)

Required

📄 Download Form

Verified Disclosure Statement (AOC-255)

Required

Separation Agreement (Custom)

Required

Note: Always use the most current forms from your state's court website. Forms may be updated periodically.

Cost Breakdown for Kentucky DIY Divorce

💰 DIY Divorce

$200-300

Filing fee: $150-200
Service fee: $50-100
Misc costs: $25-$100

👔 With Attorney

$3,000-15,000

Includes attorney fees, court costs, and filing fees for uncontested to contested cases

For detailed cost breakdown including attorney fees and scenarios: View Kentucky Divorce Costs →

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Not meeting 180-day residency

Missing 60-day wait

Incomplete disclosure statements

Not notarizing settlement

Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky DIY Divorce

Is Kentucky a no-fault divorce state?

Yes, Kentucky is a pure no-fault state. You only need to state that the marriage is irretrievably broken.

How long does a Kentucky divorce take?

Uncontested divorces in Kentucky take 3-5 months minimum, including the 60-day waiting period.

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Kentucky?

Yes, Kentucky provides forms and allows self-representation. The court system has resources to help.

Need Professional Help?

While DIY divorce can save money in Kentucky, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.

Find Kentucky Divorce Lawyers Questions to Ask a Lawyer