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We have a keen interest in cases located in Warren County, Kentucky, as well as those in its vicinity. Unmarried Fathers Rights in Kentucky In Kentucky, an unmarried mother has sole legal and physical custody of a child by default, with full decision-making authority. An unmarried father has no custody or visitation rights until he establishes paternity through a...

In Kentucky, maintenance is not automatic. A court awards maintenance only if a spouse lacks sufficient property to meet reasonable needs and cannot support themselves through appropriate employment. Courts prioritize rehabilitation toward self-sufficiency and evaluate marriage length, financial resources, and marital standard of living. Maintenance ends upon remarriage or the death of either party. Kentucky law calls payments to...

Are you a step-parent who dreams of legally adopting your spouse’s child? Do you wonder if step-parent adoption without bio-father’s consent is possible? Adoption can be a complicated process, especially when the biological father’s consent is in question. A court can approve step-parent adoption without a biological father’s consent if it terminates his parental rights for abandonment, unfitness, or...

You’ve built a bond that feels like family. Now you want the law to recognize it and are wondering: Can you adopt an adult? If you are in Bowling Green, the answer may be yes. From honoring a parent-like relationship to securing legal decision-making power, adult adoption can turn deep personal connections into a recognized legal bond. Understanding the...

When legal issues arise within the family, you turn to a family lawyer. But what is a family lawyer? Family lawyers handle all types of legal issues that affect the family, primarily spousal and parent-child relationships. Although family lawyers often provide services when families are splitting apart, we are also delighted to help when families are growing. If you...

Going through a divorce is never easy, but when it involves children and custody decisions, the process can feel overwhelming. Understanding how sole custody in Kentucky works and how to navigate the court system can help you pursue what is best for you and your child.  The Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher represents parents in Bowling Green and...

Joint custody in Kentucky is a legal arrangement that allows parents to share responsibility for their child’s care and upbringing. Kentucky courts divide responsibility into two parts: the time a child spends with each parent and the authority to make major decisions about the child’s life. Parents with joint custody share one or both of these responsibilities.  The Law...

Whether you are breaking up with your child’s other parent or were never together, we imagine you have serious questions about your child’s care and financial support. This is especially true if you have questions about 50/50 custody and child support in Kentucky. We can answer all your family law questions at the Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher....

When facing a custody dispute, the fear of losing time with a child can feel overwhelming, threatening the very core of the parent-child bond. You wrestle with the external issue of potential court intervention and the internal anxiety about your child’s well-being and your future role in their life.  Whether you are a parent fighting to keep your rights...

That empty chair at the dinner table or the silence of a missed weekend cuts deeper than any legal dispute. Still, the real, internal struggle is the gnawing fear that your meaningful relationship with your child or grandchild is slipping away. You feel helpless against the weight of the legal system, desperate to find a reliable way to be...

A guardian is a nonparent with legal authority to protect a child’s interests, but they do not hold parental rights. Parents may retain authority over major, long-term decisions. Deciding between legal guardianship vs. adoption can feel deeply personal and overwhelming, especially when thinking about a child’s future. Both adoption and legal guardianship can give a child a loving home,...

There is no common law marriage in Kentucky. So, you can get a divorce after a common law marriage only if you were married in a different state or commonwealth that recognizes that type of relationship. However, you still have a right to seek family court orders after breaking up with a live-in romantic partner if you need legal...

The loss of property is one of the biggest fears in any divorce. It’s scary to enter this situation without a clear idea of what you could keep and what you could lose. Unfortunately, there are no easy answers to this dilemma. You cannot predict the outcome of a court’s decisions, and your attorney can only attempt to sway...

Typically, custody and childcare cases involve just the rights of the child’s parents. However, third parties can also have parenting rights, especially when the third party is a grandparent. Children also have some say regarding their custody and care.  But can a child choose to live with a grandparent? Sometimes. If you have questions about grandparent custody, Pamela C....

Terminate parental rights through a court order that ends the legal parent-child relationship and eliminates rights to custody, visitation, and inheritance, along with responsibilities like child support and liability. Children are involved in one of the most complicated aspects of divorce. Custody and visitation can have lasting effects on a family, especially on children who are still in the...

Prenuptial agreements, commonly referred to as prenups, have long since been stereotyped as documents limited to extremely wealthy couples. In reality, however, prenups can be valuable to couples from all walks of life. When a couple decides to marry, there are plenty of financial and legal issues that have yet to be decided, and a prenuptial agreement can serve...

When a marriage breaks down, many couples face a critical decision: whether to legally separate or pursue a divorce. A legal separation allows a married couple to live apart while staying legally married. A divorce ends the marriage, determines custody and support, and divides assets and liabilities. Deciding whether to pursue legal separation vs. divorce is a personal choice,...

Motorcycle accidents can lead to devastating consequences for riders and their families. Unlike occupants in cars or trucks, motorcyclists have little physical protection in the event of a crash. As a result, the injuries they suffer are often severe and sometimes life-changing. If you were involved in a crash and are now researching motorcycle accident injuries, understanding what you...

Grandparents play an essential role in many families throughout Kentucky. But when a grandchild’s parents file for a divorce or separate, such an event can affect the relationship between the child and the grandparents. Read to learn about grandparent visitation rights in Kentucky. If you have questions regarding grandparent visitation rights, call us today! Schedule your free consultation. Key...

Being a single parent is difficult. There are obvious challenges with scheduling, spending time with the kids, supporting the home, and so on. When you are co-parenting, there are other concerns as well. You may be uncomfortable leaving the kids alone with their other parents. Some parents who share custody can stay unified with their decisions and child-rearing philosophy....

Paternity questions can feel stressful and emotional for both mothers and fathers. Whether you’re a father seeking to be part of your child’s life or a mother looking for clarity about your child’s future, you may wonder, How long does a father have to establish paternity in Kentucky? Knowing your rights and the deadlines involved is crucial to ensuring...

A tort is a private civil wrong against an individual that seeks monetary compensation for harm. A crime is a public wrong against society prosecuted by the government to punish the offender through fines or imprisonment. The same act may qualify as both. Torts involve private lawsuits, emphasize compensation, and use a preponderance of the evidence standard, while crimes...

Personal injury claims from car or truck accidents must be filed or settled within 2 years of the injury, death, or last no-fault insurance payment. If you were recently injured in a car accident, a truck accident, on someone else’s property, or in some other accident that was not your fault in Kentucky, you may be considering filing a...

When families face legal questions about children, emotions run high. As a family law attorney in Bowling Green with over 30 years of experience, Pamela C. Bratcher walks beside parents, grandparents, and relatives during some of the most difficult times of their lives.  Common options that many Kentucky families with children weigh are guardianship vs. custody. While the two...

Grandparents are amazing. They are a great wealth of knowledge and warmth, and they might even spoil a grandchild or two. Many grandparents also take on the difficult position of caring for their grandchildren when parents cannot. But can grandparents adopt their grandchildren in Kentucky? The answer is yes, under certain circumstances.  If you want to become your grandchild’s...

Kentucky offers some of the most scenic motorcycle routes in the country, from the winding roads of the Appalachian Mountains to the rolling hills of the Bluegrass Region. Before you hit Daniel Boone National Forest or cruise along the Green River, these seven Kentucky motorcycle laws affect every ride you take. 1. Get Licensed Before You Ride Kentucky requires...

There are approximately 1,774 children in Kentucky looking to be adopted. You could be the family they need. If you are considering single parent adoption, you may be wondering whether it is truly possible and what steps you need to take. The good news is that Kentucky law allows qualified individuals to adopt on their own. The bad news...

Many people wonder, Who is at fault in a T-bone accident? Determine fault in T-bone accidents by assigning responsibility to the left-turning driver unless the straight-moving driver violates traffic laws. T-bone accidents, often occurring at intersections, happen when one vehicle strikes the side of another, forming a “T” shape. Typically, the driver who violates traffic signals—such as running a...

Although they have a negative reputation among some, prenuptial agreements do more than protect wealth for those with excess money. They can prevent future conflict and clarify expectations before marriage. These agreements allow both partners to enter a marriage with transparency about finances and responsibilities. Topics to cover in a prenuptial agreement include property and debts, spousal support, and...

Adopting a child with special needs is a rewarding, life-changing journey. In Kentucky, there are specific requirements and processes to follow along with resources to support families willing to provide a loving home to children who need it most. Special needs adoptions often make the parents eligible for additional support, including financial assistance, Medicaid healthcare coverage, and expedited placement...

When a marriage ends, spouses may face a critical decision: Annulment vs. Divorce. End a marriage through annulment or divorce. Annulments declare the marriage invalid from the start and require specific legal grounds. Divorces end valid marriages and are generally easier to obtain. At the Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher, we know how confusing and emotional this process...

When it comes to navigating custody disputes in Kentucky, protecting the rights and interests of yourself and your children is paramount. Often, the first step toward doing so is having a basic understanding of Kentucky child custody laws so you know what you can expect moving forward. There are different types of child custody that the Kentucky courts can...

Every time you get on a motorcycle or a bike, you take a risk. You trust that your equipment is solid, the road is safe, and others around you are paying attention. But when it comes to protecting your head, the law may or may not have your back. If you’re unsure about Kentucky helmet laws, you’re not alone....

The journey of adoption is complex and filled with emotion and legal intricacies. At our firm, Pamela C. Bratcher, Attorney at Law, we understand the sensitive nature of these proceedings, especially when it comes to birth fathers’ rights in the adoption process. If you are a birth father facing an adoption case in Kentucky, you are likely grappling with...

What Do I Do When my Ex Brings The New Partner Along? If you are recently separated or are going through a divorce, you are probably dealing with some heavy emotions. Meanwhile, you child’s sporting and school events still carry on, and you are forced to be around your ex in support of your child. This is not an...

Modify a parenting plan by showing a substantial change in circumstances and filing a motion with the court. Parents who agree can submit a new plan for court approval to make it binding. If parents disagree, the court decides based on the child’s best interests. Most parents want their child to grow up in a healthy and loving environment....

If you have been in a car accident, you unfortunately have a lot you must do to maintain your physical, financial, and legal well-being. One task that you must handle quickly is telling law enforcement about the accident and obtaining a copy of the report. This report contains important details about the crash, including who was involved, what happened,...

Are you wondering, After a car accident, should I go to the hospital? Well, yes is the general answer. Even if you feel fine after an accident, that doesn’t mean you’re not hurt. Seeking medical attention as soon as possible after a car accident may be crucial for your health and help ensure you receive all the compensation you...

When a man learns he is going to be a father, his world changes. He may feel excitement, nervousness, or even fear. And he might also ask, Does a father have rights to an unborn child in Kentucky? The answer is that an expectant father has very few rights before a child is born, but there are some. This...

Just like parents, most grandparents want what is best for their children and grandchildren. And if you didn’t know, grandparents in Kentucky sometimes have rights to the custody and care of their grandchildren. There are many reasons why grandparents can file for custody of a grandchild in Kentucky, and this guide can help you understand your rights and options. ...

When you and your spouse decide to end your marriage, the big question you might ask is, What comes next? At the Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher, we can guide you at every stage of a breakup and let you know what to expect. Attorney Pamela Bratcher has over 30 years of experience and is ready to take...

Car accidents are a common occurrence in Kentucky, and they can result in a variety of injuries and even death. If you have been injured in a car accident, seek medical attention immediately and seek the help of a good attorney as soon as possible. Pamela C. Bratcher, Attorney at Law, has extensive experience in helping those suffering from...

We have a keen interest in cases located in Warren County, Kentucky, as well as those in its vicinity. Can A Stepparent Adopt A Child? After getting married (or remarried) to someone with children, you may be wondering if you can adopt your stepchildren. Courts typically require proof of attempts to find the biological father. If reasonable efforts fail,...

Are you going through a divorce in Kentucky? The emotional toll is heavy, and financial concerns can add another layer of stress. One of the biggest questions on your mind is likely this: How much do divorce lawyers cost? Several key factors influence the cost of hiring a divorce attorney in Kentucky. We discuss those factors below. Please don’t hesitate...

If you’ve been in a car accident in Kentucky, you might feel scared and unsure of what comes next. Medical bills, lost wages, and pain from your injuries add up quickly, and figuring out the settlement process can be confusing. You may be curious about the average car accident settlement amount.  While no two accidents are the same, understanding...

Adopting a child is an incredibly meaningful experience, but it can also be quite challenging. If you’re in Kentucky looking to adopt, the process may seem intimidating at first. There are, after all, many legal requirements involved, not to mention all the paperwork. Consulting an experienced Adoption Attorney in Kentucky can help simplify the process and provide peace of...

Accidents happen, and unfortunately “slip-and-fall” accidents are one of the leading types of personal injury cases in the United States. They account for approximately eight million visits to the emergency room each year, and many more such injuries go unreported. Slip-and-fall accidents in Kentucky can lead to serious injuries. Let the Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher fight for...

Every day, trucks travel the roads and highways of Kentucky, delivering goods all over the state. With so many trucks on the road, accidents will inevitably happen. However, due to their sheer size, trucks bring an added element of danger. When a car meets a truck in a crash, the outcome can be catastrophic. If you’ve suffered an injury...

Premises liability claims in Kentucky involve injuries that occur on someone else’s property due to unsafe conditions. You may be entitled to compensation if you have been injured because a property owner failed to address or warn of hazards. Property owners are required to maintain their premises to ensure safety, but when they neglect this duty, it can lead...

Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is an unimaginable experience. Pursuing a wrongful death claim can help hold the responsible party accountable while providing financial relief to the surviving family. People in this position often want to know the average wrongful death settlement in Kentucky. However, each case is unique, and several factors can significantly influence...

In Kentucky, adoption is a significant legal process that involves both biological parents unless certain exceptions apply. Many wonder, Can you give a baby up for adoption without the father’s consent? In many cases, the father’s consent is necessary, but there are specific circumstances where his consent may not be required. Understanding Kentucky adoption law can help you navigate...

When considering adoption, many people wonder, Do you have to be married to adopt a child? The answer is straightforward in Kentucky You do not need to be married to adopt. Many single people become successful foster and adoptive parents. Adoption eligibility depends on factors such as financial stability, emotional readiness, and compliance with local laws, not marital status....

The default goal under Kentucky family law is to give both parents rights to reasonable visitation with their children. But what if you believe that allowing your child to have visitation with their other parent might be harmful? Can a parent with sole custody deny visitation? Can a legal guardian deny visitation? Yes, a parent, guardian, or custodian may...

Catastrophic injuries can irrevocably alter lives, causing profound emotional and mental distress in addition to their physical consequences. At the Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher, we recognize the devastating impact these injuries can have on individuals and their families. With over three decades of legal experience, Pamela C. Bratcher and her team are dedicated to securing the justice...

Kentucky roads can be unpredictable. The carelessness of another motorist can put even the most careful motorists in harm’s way. But what if the at-fault driver does not have insurance or if their coverage is insufficient to cover your damages? This can leave you facing financial hardship from medical bills, lost wages, and car repairs. Uninsured and underinsured motorist...

Most people know that they can seek compensation from the responsible party after a car accident. However, this is usually the process in at-fault states. For no-fault states, victims often struggle to recover full compensation for their injuries.  But is Kentucky a no-fault state? Or is Kentucky an at-fault state? Answer: it’s neither. Kentucky is a choice no-fault state,...

Navigating the roads alongside large trucks can be daunting for many drivers. Even the most defensive drivers cannot avoid every potential collision. Some of the most common causes of truck accidents include driver error, distracted driving, and failure to follow traffic laws. Understanding how these accidents occur is vital as it can help reduce the risk of being involved...

Car accidents can significantly disrupt your life, especially when they lead to injuries that cause you to miss work. If you’ve found yourself in this situation, you could have the right to seek reimbursement. Understanding how to claim lost wages from a car accident is crucial.  How to Get Lost Wages After an Accident Lost wages refer to the...

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) can be devastating and completely change a victim’s life. They can lead to extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and often significant lifestyle adjustments. Understanding the components that influence the average settlement for a traumatic brain injury, especially within Kentucky’s no-fault legal framework, is crucial for victims and their families.  It’s best to understand your personal TBI...

It’s no secret that divorce proceedings can be emotionally draining. However, there is also a financial toll that can leave parties wondering who will bear the burden of covering any legal fees incurred in the process.  The question of who pays for attorney fees in a divorce is a common concern among divorcing spouses. Generally speaking, each party will...

In short, yes. Same-sex couples can adopt children in Kentucky. That said, this has not always been so clear, and even today, LGBT couples may face challenges in expanding their families through adoption that heterosexual couples may not. The legal landscape of adoption laws and policies has undergone many changes over the years, leaving many prospective parents wondering what...

When it comes to child custody matters in Kentucky, protecting your legal rights and interests, and those of your child, is paramount. However, a common question that many people have as they begin the legal process is whether a lawyer’s assistance is necessary to proceed with the case moving forward.  While hiring a child custody lawyer is not necessarily...

If you’ve found yourself in the distressing situation of being hit by a car while riding your bike, you’re not alone. It’s a terrifying experience, and it is essential to know what steps to take next to protect yourself and your rights. Here at the Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher in Bowling Green, KY, we understand the confusion...

Deciding to divorce your spouse is a life-changing decision that brings up a lot of emotions. You know you must unwind the life you shared with your spouse but are not sure where to start. Hiring an experienced, local lawyer is a great first step to getting the support you need to dissolve your marriage with as little pain...

Nothing can prepare you for the unexpected loss of a loved one, and no amount of money can replace the wonderful things they brought to your life. The purpose of a wrongful death lawsuit is to alleviate the financial burden of the surviving family members by providing compensation for funeral and burial expenses, legal fees, and loss of guidance...

The aftermath of a car accident can be a whirlwind of emotions, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of your next steps. Amidst the chaos of dealing with injuries, property damage, and insurance claims, one important issue comes up—when to get an attorney for a car accident in Kentucky? While many minor car accidents are resolved without legal assistance,...

You’ve been injured in an accident. The pain and frustration and added financial burden of medical bills and lost wages are overwhelming. You may be wondering, Do I need a personal injury lawyer? Although it is possible to file a personal injury claim without an attorney, working with an experienced personal injury attorney greatly improves the outcome of your...

Finding an attorney is easy enough in the age of Google. But when you need a family lawyer, not just anyone will do. To begin your search, you must understand how to find a good family lawyer. Once you know more about what makes a good attorney, you still need to narrow down how to choose a family law...

Divorce is an incredibly tumultuous experience, especially when it could force you to lose your financial stability. For men, there is an added concern of whether the family court system will treat them fairly. There are many stereotypes around gender roles in relationships, but legally, men have just as much right to alimony (also known as spousal support) in...

When discussing the strong bond between family members, people often say that blood is thicker than water. Many of us, however, know that isn’t always true. Stepparents often step up and take a strong parental role. Later, when facing a divorce, these great parents can be left out because they lack a blood relationship. In this article, we look...

As a parent, the subject of child custody can be difficult to navigate. No matter how amicable parents are at the end of the relationship, disputes can easily arise. Custody disputes over visitation, authority, or relocation often escalate into prolonged legal battles that impact both parents and the child.  Negotiate custody agreements through a family law attorney or directly...

With summer right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start bike riding as a fun, healthy form of exercise. Riding is a great way to explore your area and get some fresh air without creating unhealthy emissions. Despite all its many advantages, biking also comes with risks. You must always be careful of others who don’t follow...

If you’re one of the millions of single parents or divorcees who are paying child support, you may feel overwhelmed and confused by the cost. Generally, child support is meant to be an affordable, reasonable expense. In the best cases, it shouldn’t cost more than it would to support them if you lived in the same home. Many who...

If you’ve been harmed by a defective product, you can take steps to hold the manufacturer responsible. Personal injury law outlines ways for safeguarding the rights and well-being of those harmed by another’s negligence or fault. In this article, we discuss the various criteria necessary for a successful personal injury claim. Here are the three main ways to prove...

If you are a parent going through a divorce, understanding the building blocks of legal and physical child custody is important. This is true whether you’re navigating the world of child custody for the first time, or someone seeking to better understand the law. Take the time to learn about the different types of custody. Doing so will help...

Some old clichés are true. For example, you “marry the whole family” after the wedding. Many stepparents will confirm this idea, as they are suddenly thrust into parenting roles after getting married. Blood is not always thicker than water. The relationship between a child and their stepparent can be just as genuine as any parent/child relationship. This fact causes...

When you have children, it can be difficult to manage your schedule. You must balance time with work, errands, and any other responsibilities. This effort doubles when the parents are not together. Now, the simple act of seeing the children involves travel time, pick-ups and drop-offs, and more complications. Luckily, there is a solution to this problem. That solution...

People who go through a divorce often have no other experience with the legal system. Suddenly entering that world can be confusing, and it’s easy for these people to get lost. Simply keeping up with the legal jargon can be frustrating. Terms and phrases that lawyers throw around every day can easily over the layperson’s head. Terms as simple...

Most of us know that marital contracts are often used for financial purposes. Many people with high assets, for instance, create prenups strictly for this purpose. What is less well known, however, is exactly how this works. We see movies and TV shows with rich people fighting over premarital agreements, but we don’t receive a lot of details on...

Child support can be an uncomfortable topic for many. On one hand, you want to be involved in your child’s welfare. On the other, the realities of life may prevent you from doing so. If child support payments are becoming a burden, you need options for relief. Luckily, you can receive modifications. These modifications, however, won’t simply come at...

In some occupations, you cannot have a bad day. One such example is the medical field. Mistakes can lead to serious damage. It can create costly mistakes that seriously impact someone’s financial well-being. In more extreme scenarios, mistakes can seriously injure or even kill someone. In its most extreme form, medical malpractice may need to go through a criminal...

Criminal law and civil law are distinct. They have different processes, goals, and outcomes. In a criminal court, someone commits a crime, and they serve a sentence after being found guilty. In civil law, one person negligently harms another, and the victim dues for financial compensation. Wrongful death lawsuits are a type of civil, personal injury lawsuit. The unique...

When we imagine divorce, we often conjure up pictures of courtrooms, judges, and opposing arguments. This scene is certainly a possibility when people want to end their marriage, and it may be necessary when the divorce is ugly. However, there are other options available. You can agreements on your own. One way to do this is through divorce mediation....

The term “premises liability” refers to a landowner’s responsibility toward their visitor’s safety. If you are hurt on someone else’s property, you may have grounds to file a lawsuit. The location of your injury greatly affects your premises liability claim. There are different rules for whether you are hurt on business, public, or private land. If You Are Hurt...

Most people will experience a life event over the course of their career that forces them to need time off work. In these circumstances, employers in Kentucky are required to follow the rules laid out in the Family and Medical Leave Act. This is a federal law granting eligible employees the ability to take unpaid, job-protected leave from work...

When 2 people get married, they may choose to combine certain aspects of their lives, such as their finances and future purchases. However, when a marriage does not work out in the long run, there may be conflict over which spouse should retain ownership of certain assets. This sort of disagreement can complicate divorce proceedings and cause significant stress...

EGL Motor, a company known for creating small parts for motorcycles as well as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), has recalled their youth ATVs due to a severe risk of injury. The ATVs were also found to be in violation of the federal safety standard for that type of product. Consumers may be eligible for compensation when companies provide products that...

When you are injured as a result of another party’s negligence, you deserve to be fairly compensated for all of your injuries. In many situations, the parties involved can negotiate a fair settlement without going to court. If an acceptable settlement cannot be reached, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit. Several different types of compensation are...

Contrary to popular belief, most family law cases are resolved outside of court. There are many advantages to doing so, including the fact that your private information is kept private, and that you have more control over the outcome of your case. If you are considering an alternative method to litigation, you are fortunate as there are many methods...

If your spouse refuses to play fair during a divorce, you might notice what are called “dirty divorce tactics.” These include actions that are manipulative, hurtful, frustrating, and embarrassing. If this is the case, you should contact a lawyer immediately to help you create a strategy to protect yourself in the event your spouse continues with this behavior.  Common...

If you or someone you love was injured in an accident, you will need to file a personal injury claim to receive compensatory damages. As this process can be a little complicated if you have never done it before, it is advisable to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney beforehand. Today, we provide an overview of what you should...

One of the most common concerns for individuals going through a divorce is whether alimony will be part of the divorce agreement. Alimony has two basic purposes: to make sure one spouse does not walk away with all the marital assets and funds and to prevent inequalities in terms of each spouse’s future standard of living. Whether you were...

One of the first steps of filing for a divorce is considering whether you will pursue a contested or uncontested divorce. A contested divorce is a divorce where a couple cannot agree on some or all the terms put in place in the divorce agreement. These terms cover everything from spousal support and child custody matters to asset and...

Adoption allows a couple to fulfill their lifetime dream of becoming parents. There are various benefits to adopting a child, including starting a family of your own and being able to provide a better life for a child. There are various types of adoption available, including agency adoption, relative adoption, guardian adoption, and stepparent adoption. Today, we go over...

Motorcycles are notorious for being dangerous. With motorcycle accidents more likely to lead to a serious injury or fatality than a car accident, it is easy to see why. According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycles made up 14% of all traffic fatalities in 2017. It is reported that anywhere from 70 to 80% of...

How to Manage a Co-Parenting Schedule This Holiday Season The holiday season is typically full of festive activities for the entire family to enjoy, including families whose parents have recently divorced or separated. While the holiday season may seem daunting to those parents that are navigating such a transition in their lives, it does not have to be. Plus,...

Spousal maintenance, or spousal maintenance, is based on several factors. Duration and allotment will depend entirely on the circumstances of each case. Ultimately, the court will make a decision based on the most desirable outcome for those involved. Maintenance Orders After a spouse has filed for dissolution of marriage or legal separation in Kentucky, they can file for maintenance....

Divorce can be a complicated process even in the best of circumstances, and perhaps the most challenging part is deciding how to move forward as a family. On that note, telling your children about your decision to divorce is one of the most painful conversations you may ever have with them. Especially for younger children who may not understand...

Truck accidents can happen for a variety of reasons. No matter the reason, these accidents can cause significant damage and fatalities. In fact, according to state statistics, over 2,000 injuries occurred in truck collisions in 2018 alone. These accidents can have lasting and traumatic results for both the truck drivers and other motorists involved. Most Common Causes of Truck...

Adoption is a lengthy and costly process. Private domestic adoptions in Kentucky can cost up to $50,000 on average and can take several years to finalize. Whether you are looking into a domestic adoption or an international one, the legal element can be confusing at best. Adoption attorneys and family lawyers can offer a great deal of support. Ultimately,...

The divorce process is inherently emotional and, regardless of who initiated it, it is still a difficult experience. Given the sensitive nature of this process, it is easy for spouses to make terrible mistakes, which can potentially reverberate throughout a family’s life for many years to come. The best thing you can do to avoid making a preventable misstep...

Because of COVID-19, Governor Beshear declared a State of Emergency in response to the novel coronavirus. The Supreme Court has placed restrictions on court services but is accommodating existing court orders to keep custody or parenting time under control. Find out how Covid-19 may affect your custody or parenting time order in Kentucky. 

The divorce process can be potentially long and grueling. You may feel lonely, defeated, and doubt your worthiness of love. While getting back into the dating scene can certainly give you the boost you are looking for, the benefits are usually short-lived, but the damage may reverberate throughout your life for some time to come. Therefore, you should wait...

No one wants to pay spousal support longer than they should, especially if their financial circumstances worsened, making the court order impractical. Thankfully, family courts understand that life continually changes and some of these changes are substantial enough to warrant a reduction in spousal support payments. Before taking the matter to court, you can discuss it with your former...

Social media is incredibly ubiquitous these days and, for many, it is a necessary part of everyday life due to its unique ability to keep people connected. However, if you are going through a divorce, you might want to consider taking a temporary hiatus until the process is finalized. The information you share online, no matter how benign it...

Each parent, unless otherwise ordered, has a responsibility to emotionally and financially support their child. Even when a support order is issued, the amount of the award can change over time as needs and financial statuses shift. Either parent can file a motion to modify a child support payment any time after the order is official. The state of...

Kentucky wrongful death laws are in place to compensate the family members of people who have been killed in preventable accidents. These laws on how survivors can file a lawsuit are extremely specific. Therefore it’s important that parties involved are aware of the necessary steps. Wrongful Death The state of Kentucky defines wrongful death as any demise that results...

What Is CBD? One of the active ingredients in marijuana is cannabidiol (CBD), which has been used to treat various conditions ranging from insomnia to persistent pain. About seven percent of American adults have reported that they use some sort of CBD product. CBD does not give users the “high” they would otherwise get from tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)—the chemical compound...

The aim of the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act (UPAA) is to provide consistency and clarity to all documents spouses may create. It places a particular emphasis on agreements that waive or modify rights that would otherwise materialize during marriage dissolution or the death of one spouse. The UPAA states that both parties should be allowed to create mutually agreed...

A statute of limitations is a state-mandated law that sets a time limit on the right to bring a lawsuit to a court of law. The statute of limitations governing car accident claims is the same that governs personal injury claims. Kentucky Revised Statutes section 413.1401(1)(a) gives a person up to 1 year after the accident to file a...

If a person owns a piece of property or business, they are responsible for keeping it reasonably clean and free of hazards. If you or a family member is injured or killed on someone else’s property, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries or pain and suffering. A landowner has a duty of care to ensure their...

If you are divorced and have to attend your first parent-teacher conference since your separation, it can be a bit awkward if you and your ex are still uncomfortable around one another or you aren’t on speaking terms. Staying up to date with your child’s academic progress is a critical part of their overall development, which is why you...

Are you interested in adopting a child? Are you worried you need the father’s consent to legally adopt? Continue reading our blog to find out what you need to know about adopting a child in Kentucky. What Are the Consent Requirements for Adopting a Child? If you want to adopt a child, but the natural father has not given...

Despite what you have heard, not all auto accidents are the same. The injuries in truck accident cases are often much more severe than car accident injuries because of the significant difference in the vehicles’ size and weight. Statistics from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration show that large commercial truck accidents were responsible for 287,000 property damage claims,...

The holidays are supposed to be the time of year where you can spend time with your family, but for divorced couples, making fair custody arrangements for the children is much easier said than done. The holiday season often brings out the worst in divorced parents, which is why it is important to do what you can to prevent...

Although Halloween is supposed to be a fun night, it is also a night that sees an increase in accidents and injuries among drivers and pedestrians. In fact, Safe Kids Worldwide says, “on average, twice as many child pedestrians are killed while walking on Halloween compared to any other day of the year, and more than 70 percent of...

Your divorce will impact every major aspect of your life. From financial issues to the emotional stress of having to dispute things like child custody and alimony, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by the entire process. If you have valuable assets, property, and children, you will likely need help from a team of professionals to keep your...

At the Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher, our attorney has more than 28 years of experience handling divorce cases in Bowling Green and surrounding communities. In that time, we have helped countless clients with their family law disputes, and we know that making the decision to divorce your spouse can be a difficult choice. To help determine if...

Divorce can strain the relationship between parents and their children. However, it’s important to remember that divorce and separation is much harder for the kids to go through than it is for the parents. If you want to keep your children’s worlds from turning upside down after your divorce or separation, you will need to make extra efforts to...

Because June is National Safety Month and the weather is starting to warm up, we want to take the time to give you a few tips that will help keep you and your family safe the next time you go swimming. Although it can be fun to play Marco / Polo and do cannon balls with your family in...

After you have been involved in a car accident, one of the most important things you can do is document the accident damage by taking pictures. Because we now have cellphones that are equipped with high resolution cameras, the process is much easier than ever before. Photographic evidence of your accident is key if you want to successfully recover...

There are many different horror stories out there about people who have had their credit ruined in their divorce. From wives maxing out their husband’s credit cards to husbands who have squandered the life savings on a gambling debt, there are all sorts of things that can happen during your divorce that can adversely impact your credit. Some of...

Mediation can occur at any time during a custody case. Sometimes a judge might order mediation early in the divorce proceedings, while other times, mediation might be ordered right before the trial. At the mediation meeting, a trained child custody mediator will serve as an objective third-party to help you and your ex come to an agreement about child...

When you’re thinking about getting a divorce, it is important to also consider how your separation will affect custody of your children. Will your children be living with you? Will they live far away from the other parent? Who will be responsible for child support and health insurance for your kids? If you and your ex-spouse are on decent...

Parental alienation happens when one parent attempts to psychologically manipulate a child into showing unwarranted fear, disrespect, or hostility towards the other parent. For parents involved in a complicated divorce, parental alienation can become a serious problem that might affect the result of their case. Often, children who are manipulated by a parent are coached and taught behaviors that...

If we had to put is as simple as possible, tort law is essentially all civil lawsuits, including those that deal with car accidents, product liability, nursing home abuse, wrongful death, and premises liability. Tort law provides a victim of wrongdoing with financial compensation to pay for medical bills, property damage, pain and suffering and lost wages. Tort lawsuits...

Most people know divorce can be pretty expensive, but not many expect precisely how much they will end up paying. Many states require equitable division when people divorce, including Kentucky. Equitable division means both spouses divide marital property as equitably, or fairly, as possible—which doesn’t necessarily mean splitting everything exactly in half. Because of this process, part of the...

Social media is a major part of our lives and many of us post everything from vacation photos and beautifully plated meals to our innermost thoughts and daily activities on various online platforms that encourage us to overshare. For most, this is not too much of a problem, but if you are in the middle of a personal injury...

Divorce can be a difficult process to navigate and mistakes that oftentimes seem minor could lead to big problems or create unnecessary obstacles on your path toward a new chapter in your life. Every couple is different and there is no “right” way for everyone to get divorced. However, there are some general do’s and don’ts anyone can benefit...

Safety should be a paramount concern for all drivers, no matter how seasoned and experienced they might be. The fact is that driving can be dangerous and even a good driver can get into a terrible accident. Therefore, drivers should always educate themselves on safety tips and good driving habits to avoid complacency. Driving is a privilege and should...

Divorce is often complicated, particularly when it comes to splitting assets and property, or determining child custody and alimony. These complications are even more pronounced in high asset divorce cases, where a considerable amount of money, assets, property, businesses, and high-priced items are at stake. Like most divorces, there is a lot of room for mistakes, which could hurt...

If you and your spouse are over the age of 50 and considering a divorce, you might think this is a rare occurrence, but divorce rates have actually increased significantly among this age group, earning it the term “gray divorce.” While divorce is difficult no matter what age group you fall into, gray divorce comes with its own unique...

Have you been injured due to the negligence of another? If so, whether it was in the car or at another location, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim. However, a number of people often have misguided intentions and goals when filing an injury claim, primarily due to a number of myths and misconceptions about what...

Whiplash is one of the most common soft tissue injuries individuals involved in car accidents suffer, though its effects are often severely underestimated. In fact, claim adjusters often argue that it is not a legitimate injury, despite extensive proof that says otherwise. This injury is caused when the neck suffers a strain injury, resulting in a stretched, strained, or...

It’s summer time, and that means the temperatures are climbing and before long you’ll be looking for ways to beat the heat. While air conditioning is one thing, nothing beats a dip in your local pool when it comes to having fun while staying refreshed. However, before you and your loved ones dive in this summer, it’s important to...

Car accidents are strenuous, confusing, and often filled with a ton of tension. In an effort to show good faith and diffuse some of this attention, it’s perfectly normal for someone to try to be cordial during initial exchanges after the accident happens. However, these exchanges could actually do more damage to the car accident claims you are likely...

When parents go through a divorce, one of the largest sources of apprehension is the child custody agreement that looms on the horizon. No parent really wants to completely take their child away from an ex-spouse but most parents also want to make the most of the time they do get to spend with their kids after a divorce....

Cooling off by the water’s edge on a hot day may be your idea of a perfect afternoon, but make sure you and your family know what it takes to stay safe by the pool this summer. Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for young children, with roughly 390 drowning in pools in the U.S. each year,...

A fully-loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 40 times heavier than a normal passenger vehicle, which makes trucks among the most dangerous vehicles we share the road with. One of the best ways to ensure your safety and the safety of those who share road with is to avoid driving in a truck’s blind spots. In this blog, our...

Perhaps the biggest misconception about child custody cases is that there is a “winner” and a “loser.” In reality, courts are very hesitant to award sole custody to one parent, and instead will strive to form a co-parenting plan in which both parents take an active role in the child’s life. Still, there are many mistakes that you can...

  What Is the Most Dangerous Collision? According to the Association for Safe International Road Travel, approximately 37,000 people die in accidents every year in the United States, and another 2.35 million are injured or disabled due to car wrecks. Car accidents are dangerous and unfortunately, they are very common. While any car accident can cause serious personal injury, some...

As a consumer, you expect items you purchase to be reasonably safe, or to include thorough warnings and instructions if danger exists. Unfortunately, manufacturer negligence leads to many personal injuries and fatalities each year, as these companies choose to prioritize profits over people’s safety. When this happens, you have a right to pursue fair compensation to cover your medical...

While it’s not hard to get a divorce, the process itself is anything but easy. Emotions typically run high, and people often get caught in the trap of trying to “win” their divorce case. Even worse, aggressive “shark” divorce attorneys will frequently push buttons or look for new ways to create conflicts, as a longer case puts more money...