Why do I have to wait 60 days to get a divorce in Kentucky? What is the “waiting period” and why is it required in a divorce case under Kentucky law? The family law courts in the State of Kentucky are quite busy, especially when you consider the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic upon our local Family Courts.
Kentucky established a “60 day waiting period” to ensure each party has the time and space to truly consider this important decision and to allow each party to gain a full understanding of what they are contemplating. The waiting period is also designed to allow time for each party to consider reconciliation prior to the termination of a marriage.
Many people have given the matter comprehensive thought and just want to complete the process as soon as possible. They don’t want to wait 60 days to get a divorce in Louisville. The good news is you do not have to wait 60 days to file for a divorce. However, the waiting period has been established as the 60 day period from the “summons’ and petition’s service or the respondent’s appearance, whichever occurs first.” This means it is important to work with the divorce and family law attorneys at Dodd & Dodd in part to ensure timely service of your former spouse to get this important clock started.
The Court may lengthen the time of the waiting period under some circumstances, but it cannot be shortened. There may be reasons associated with the marital status of the parties, health insurance or a medical condition which justifies this type of order.
Many people misunderstand the meaning of having to wait 60 days to get a divorce in Louisville. A divorce is not automatically established once the 60 day point in the waiting period is reached. A Louisville divorce must be ordered by a Judge, and if you are concerned about time frames associated with your divorce it is important to seek the counsel of an experienced Louisville family law attorney. We invite you to review the recommendations of former clients and contact Dodd & Dodd or call 502-584-1108 to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced Louisville divorce attorneys.
