Bowling Green Divorce Lawyer

Let Us Help You File for Divorce in Kentucky

Making the decision to divorce from your spouse is not an easy one. In fact, even if a divorce is uncontested, it is still one of the most emotionally difficult and stressful experiences that you can go through. If you are looking to end your marriage in the least painful way possible, it is imperative that you hire a Bowling Green family law attorney to represent you.

As our client, you can benefit from the following:

• Proven results in all levels of court, including state and appellate courts,
• Initial consultation for prospective clients,
• All cases receive personal, attentive counsel, and
• Step-by-step guidance and constant updates regarding your case developments.

If you have questions about filing for divorce in Kentucky, speak with an experienced Bowling Green divorce lawyer right away. 

Grounds for Divorce in Kentucky

Kentucky is a “no-fault” divorce state, which means you do not need to prove wrongdoing, such as adultery or abuse, to end your marriage. Instead, you need to state that your marriage is “irretrievably broken.” However, you or your spouse must meet residency requirements before filing here.

Even though fault isn’t required, it can still play a role in other aspects of your case. For example, if one spouse’s conduct negatively impacted the children or led to financial loss, it may influence custody or asset division decisions.

Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce

There are two main types of divorce:

• Uncontested divorce. Both parties agree on all major terms, including property division, custody, and support.
• Contested divorce. Spouses disagree on one or more issues, such as property division or child custody, and need court involvement to resolve them.

While uncontested divorces are often quicker and less expensive, not every couple can reach a complete agreement on their own. That’s where having a seasoned Bowling Green divorce lawyer becomes essential. Whether you are filing or responding to a contested petition, experienced legal guidance can help protect your rights and pursue a fair outcome.

Child Custody and Parenting Plans

Child custody is often one of the most emotional aspects of a divorce. In Kentucky, courts prioritize the child’s best interests when deciding custody. There are two types of custody:

• Legal custody—the right to make major decisions about the child’s life; and
• Physical custody—where the child lives on a day-to-day basis.

Many families end up with joint custody, meaning both parents share responsibilities. However, if there’s evidence that joint custody would not serve the child’s best interest, the court may award sole custody to one parent.

A detailed parenting plan outlines visitation schedules, holidays, transportation responsibilities, and decision-making guidelines. Your Bowling Green divorce attorney can help you create a parenting plan that works for your family and complies with Kentucky law.

Spousal Support (Maintenance)

Spousal support, or maintenance, is not guaranteed in every Kentucky divorce. Courts consider it when one spouse lacks sufficient income or resources to meet their reasonable needs. Key factors include:

• The requesting spouse’s financial need,
• The other spouse’s ability to pay,
• The duration of the marriage, and
• Each person’s earning capacity and education.

Depending on the situation, spousal support can be temporary, rehabilitative, or long-term. Your divorce lawyer can help you evaluate your eligibility and advocate for fair terms.

Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution

Litigation isn’t always the best or only option. Many Kentucky courts encourage divorcing couples to attempt mediation before heading to trial. Mediation allows both parties to resolve disputes with the help of a neutral third party and their respective attorneys.

This process can:

• Reduce costs,
• Shorten the timeline,
• Provide more privacy, and
• Encourage cooperative parenting.

We support solutions that minimize conflict whenever possible while protecting your rights and long-term interests.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Divorce in Kentucky?

The length of time it takes for a divorce to finalize strictly depends on the issues at hand. An uncontested divorce may take as little as 60 days if both parties agree on all terms. On the other hand, if a contested divorce is filed, then issues such as custody or support may not agreed upon and will require a lengthier court hearing. Additional factors that could increase your waiting time include the court’s schedule, as well as whether there are children involved.

Legal Support Throughout Your Divorce

Our lawyer can be an effective third party when you need to resolve the various complicated and emotional issues, such as child support, child custody, division of assets, and more. The sooner you hire quality counsel to represent you in your divorce case, the better. Time is of the essence, especially if you believe that your spouse is going to attempt to fight you over your children or assets.

We can help you put together a complete divorce agreement which covers the following subjects:

• Property division,
• Spousal support,
• Child support,
• Visitation, and
• Child custody.

Relationships During Divorce

You and your spouse have decided to move forward with a divorce and might have even begun the process, but does that mean now is the right time to re-enter the dating pool? Your actions during this delicate time can have some serious ramifications and might impact the outcome of your divorce. Read on to learn how your decision to begin dating again can impact your divorce:

• It can negatively impact your ability to settle your case,
• It can affect your parenting arrangement,
• It can change your relationship with your kids, and
• You need to deal with your emotions first.

Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce in Kentucky

Divorce law can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time navigating the court system. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from clients seeking guidance from a Bowling Green divorce lawyer. These answers can help you better understand your rights and what to expect as you move forward.

How Much Does It Cost to Get Divorced in Bowling Green, KY?

The cost varies depending on the complexity of the case. Uncontested divorces are generally less expensive because there is less court involvement. Contested divorces, which involve disputes over custody, support, or property, tend to require more time and legal resources.

Do I Need to Live in Kentucky to File for Divorce Here?

Yes. Kentucky law requires that at least one spouse must have lived in the state for a minimum of 180 days before filing for divorce. You can file in the county where either spouse resides, including Warren County for Bowling Green residents.

How Is Child Support Calculated in Kentucky?

Kentucky uses the income shares model to calculate child support. This method considers both parents’ incomes, the number of children, and necessary expenses such as daycare and health insurance. Courts may adjust the standard calculation in specific situations to better serve the child’s needs.

What If My Spouse Refuses to Sign Divorce Papers?

You can still proceed with the divorce. If your spouse refuses to respond or participate, the court may issue a default judgment after a waiting period. As long as you meet Kentucky’s legal requirements, the court can finalize the divorce without your spouse’s signature.

Can I Change My Name During the Divorce Process?

Yes. If you want to return to your maiden or former legal name, you can request this as part of the divorce proceedings. The court typically includes the name change in the final divorce decree, making it easier to update your identification documents afterward.

Entrust Your Divorce to a Firm with over 30 Years of Experience

If your divorce is contested or you are running into any difficulty, you can rely on our Bowling Green divorce lawyer to aggressively litigate on your behalf. With more than 30 years of legal experience, we are highly qualified to guide you through virtually any issue you may face. At the Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher, we are committed to providing aggressive and compassionate legal representation to our clients. Make sure to check out our case results! In addition, if you’ve been in a car accident and have been hurt, take a look at our personal injury services.