What are the laws in Kentucky about pet custody in a divorce in Louisville? Pets across most States in the United States, including Kentucky, are considered to be “property.” As such, property was to be divided equally between the parties.
Since pets are legally property the decision of who got the beloved dog, cat or pet is to be ultimately decided by the orders of the Judge in your case. Under our present law, the Judge may issue orders regarding pets as temporary orders (at the outset of a case) and as permanent orders. Temporary orders do not necessarily have any impact on permanent orders.
Judges in our Family Court understand the nature of animals, and the deep affection we have for our beloved family pets. Pet custody in a divorce in Louisville is often handled somewhat on the same principle as child custody: what is best for the pet. However, the ultimate resolution to this question usually lies within the family.
Discussions begin with a conversation between the parties. This may require some negotiation, and in some cases resolution of the dispute through mediation.
If the parties are unable to reach an agreement upon pet custody in a divorce in Louisville the Judge will make the decision.
Many Judges attempt to creatively determine what was best. In the case of a dispute, many Judges across the nation have been known to separate the parties by some distance, place the pet in between them and see who it goes to. Others may order a pet to be transferred between households on a monthly or weekly basis.
A lot of the Judge’s decision may be influenced by current patterns of “care” for the pet(s). Care includes, but is not limited to, the provision of food, water, veterinary care as well as a safe, protective home. Kentucky law further defines “care” to include prevention of acts of harm or cruelty.
If both parties have a verifiable strong attachment to and relationship with the beloved pet, the Judge may consider the residences of both parties and the suitability for pet life.
The experienced divorce and family law attorneys at Dodd & Dodd have pets of our own and understand that beloved pets are members of the family. We will work to protect your interests and seek the best possible outcome for you and your pet(s).
Are you concerned about pet custody in a divorce in Louisville? We invite you to review the strong recommendations of our former clients and contact us or call 502-584-1108 to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced divorce and family law attorneys.
