403.010 Court may grant divorce -- Remarriage.

A jury shall not be impaneled in any action for divorce, alimony or maintenance, but courts having general jurisdiction may grant a divorce for the cause set out in this chapter. A decree of dissolution of marriage authorizes either party to marry again.

Effective: January 2, 1978
History: Amended 1976 (1st Extra. Sess.) Ky. Acts ch. 14, sec. 408, effective January 2, 1978. -- Amended 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 27. -- Recodified 1942 Ky. Acts ch. 208, sec. 1, effective October 1, 1942, from Ky. Stat. secs. 2117, 2118

403.025 Proof in action for dissolution of marriage; credible witnesses.

(1) The statements of a petition for dissolution of marriage concerning the residence of the parties and irretrievable breakdown of the marriage shall not be taken as true because of the respondent's failure to deny the statements, and the facts as to residence of the parties must be proved by one (1) or more credible witnesses.

(2) The petitioner or respondent in an action for dissolution of marriage may be considered a credible witness, within the meaning of subsection (1) of this section, to be utilized in order to prove residency of the parties. The provisions of this subsection shall be retroactive in effect.

Effective: July 15, 1988
History: Amended 1988 Ky. Acts ch. 61, sec. 1, effective July 15, 1988. -- Amended 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 340, sec. 1. -- Transferred 1952 Ky. Acts ch. 84, sec. 1, effective July 1, 1953, from C.C. sec. 422. -- C.C. sec. 422 amended 1892 Ky. Acts ch. 57, sec. 1.

403.036 Mediation not to be ordered unless conditions are met.

In any court proceeding conducted pursuant to KRS 403.010 to 403.350, if there is a finding of domestic violence and abuse, as defined in KRS 403.720, the court shall not order mediation unless requested by the victim of the alleged domestic violence and abuse, and the court finds that:

(1) The victim's request is voluntary and not the result of coercion; and

(2) Mediation is a realistic and viable alternative to or adjunct to the issuance of an order sought by the victim of the alleged domestic violence and abuse.

Effective: July 15, 1996
History: Created 1996 Ky. Acts ch. 99, sec. 15, effective July 15, 1996.

403.040 Annulment of divorce decree -- Effect.

The court rendering a judgment for divorce may, at any time, annul it on the joint application of the parties, and restore the parties to the condition of husband and wife. The annulment voids the divorce decree and any separation agreement.

Effective: June 17, 1978
History: Amended 1978 Ky. Acts ch. 236, sec. 1, effective June 17, 1978. -- Amended 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 345, sec. 1. -- Recodified 1942 Ky. Acts ch. 208, sec. 1, effective October 1, 1942, from Ky. Stat. sec. 2120.
Legislative Research Note. This section was amended in a somewhat different form by Acts 1972, ch. 345, sec. 1; it was also repealed by Acts 1972, ch. 182, sec. 29, which thoroughly revised this chapter. An attempt has been made to give effect to the apparent intention of both acts in this compilation

403.041 Judgment of divorce may be annulled.

A judgment of divorce from the bond of matrimony may be annulled by the court which rendered it, upon a petition verified by the parties in person so requesting.

Effective: July 1, 1953
History: Transferred 1952 Ky. Acts ch. 84, sec. 1, effective July 1, 1953, from C.C. sec. 426.

403.044 Testimony in certain cases not taken for sixty days after complaint filed.

In divorce actions in which there are minor children who are the issue of the marriage no testimony other than on temporary motions shall be taken or heard before sixty (60) days have elapsed from the date of service of summons, the appointment of a warning order attorney or the filing of an entry of appearance or a responsive pleading by the defendant, whichever occurs first.

Effective: July 15, 1980
History: Amended 1980 Ky. Acts ch. 45, sec. 1, effective July 15, 1980. -- Amended 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 253, sec. 1. -- Created 1968 Ky. Acts ch. 43, sec. 2.

403.140 Marriage -- Court may enter decree of dissolution or separation.

(1) The Circuit Court shall enter a decree of dissolution of marriage if:
  (a) The court finds that one (1) of the parties, at the time the action was commenced, resided in this state, or was stationed in this state while a member of the armed services, and that the residence or military presence has been maintained for 180 days next preceding the filing of the petition;
  (b) The court finds that the conciliation provisions of KRS 403.170 either do not apply or have been met;
  (c) The court finds that the marriage is irretrievably broken; and
  (d) To the extent it has jurisdiction to do so, the court has considered, approved or made provision for child custody, the support of any child of the marriage entitled to support, the maintenance of either spouse, and the disposition of property.

(2) If a party requests a decree of legal separation rather than a decree of dissolution of marriage, the court shall grant the decree in that form unless the other party objects, in which latter event the other provisions of this chapter shall apply.

History: Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 4.

403.150 Procedure -- Commencement of action, pleadings, abolition of existing defenses.

(1) All proceedings under this chapter are commenced in the manner provided by the Rules of Civil Procedure.

(2) The verified petition in a proceeding for dissolution of marriage or legal separation shall allege the marriage is irretrievably broken and shall set forth:
  (a) The age, occupation, Social Security number, and residence of each party, provided in accordance with KRS 403.135, and his length of residence in this state. If domestic   violence and abuse, as defined in KRS 403.720, is alleged by either party, the party filing the petition shall certify the existence and status of any domestic violence protective orders. The party filing the petition and alleging the abuse may substitute the party's attorney's address as the address of the party and any minor children;
  (b) The date of the marriage and the place at which it was registered;
  (c) That the parties are separated and the date on which the parties separated;
  (d) The names, ages, Social Security numbers, and addresses, provided in accordance with KRS 403.135, of any living infant children of the marriage, and whether the wife is   pregnant;
  (e) Any arrangements as to custody, visitation, and support of the children and the maintenance of a spouse; and
  (f) The relief sought.
(3) Either or both parties to the marriage may initiate the proceeding.
(4) If a proceeding is commenced by one (1) of the parties, the other party must be served in the manner provided by the Rules of Civil Procedure and may file a verified response.
(5) Previously existing defenses to divorce and legal separation, including but not limited to condonation, connivance, collusion, recrimination, insanity, and lapse of time, are abolished.
(6) The court may join additional parties proper for the exercise of its authority to implement this chapter.
(7) When the wife is pregnant at the time the petition is filed, the court may continue the case until the pregnancy is terminated.

Effective: July 12, 2006
History: Amended 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 126, sec. 2, effective July 12, 2006. -- Amended 1998 Ky. Acts ch. 255, sec. 17, effective July 15, 1998. -- Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 5. -- Amended 1992 Ky. Acts ch. 169, sec. 1, effective July 14, 1992

403.160 Temporary orders -- Maintenance, child support, injunction -- Disclosure of information on domestic violence or child abuse.

(1) In a proceeding for dissolution of marriage or for legal separation, or in a proceeding for disposition of property or for maintenance or support following dissolution of the marriage by a court which lacked personal jurisdiction over the absent spouse, either party may move for temporary maintenance. The motion shall be accompanied by an affidavit setting forth the factual basis for the motion and the amounts requested.

(2) (a) In a proceeding for dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or child support, either party, with notice to the opposing party, may move for temporary child support. The motion shall be accompanied by an affidavit setting forth the number of children of the marriage and the information required to calculate the combined adjusted parental gross income set forth in KRS 403.212(2)(g), and the Social Security numbers, provided in accordance with KRS 403.135, of all parties subject to the motion. The court shall, within fourteen (14) days from the filing of said motion, order an amount of temporary child support based upon the child support guidelines as provided by law, and the ordered child support shall be retroactive to the date of the filing of the motion unless otherwise ordered by the court.

(b) Upon a showing of good cause, either party may move the court to enter an order for temporary child support without written or oral notice to the adverse party. After reviewing the affidavit required by paragraph (a) of this subsection, the court may issue a temporary child support order based upon the child support guidelines. The order shall provide that the order becomes effective seven (7) days following service of the order and movant's affidavit upon the adverse party unless the adverse party, within the seven (7) day period, files a motion for a hearing before the court. The motion for hearing shall be accompanied by the affidavit required by paragraph (a) of this subsection. Pending the hearing, the adverse party shall pay child support in an amount based upon the guidelines and the adverse party's affidavit. The child support order entered following the hearing shall be retroactive to the date of the filing of the motion for temporary support unless otherwise ordered by the court.

(3) As part of a motion for temporary maintenance or support or by independent motion accompanied by affidavit, either party may request the court to issue a temporary injunction or restraining order pursuant to the Rules of Civil Procedure.

(4) If the court or agent of the court is made aware that there is reasonable evidence of domestic violence or child abuse, the court shall determine whether disclosure to any other person of the information could be harmful to the parent or child, and if the court determines that disclosure to any person could be harmful, the court and its agents shall not make the disclosure.

(5) On the basis of the showing made and in conformity with KRS 403.200, the court may issue a temporary injunction or restraining order and an order for temporary maintenance in amounts and on terms just and proper in the circumstances.

(6) A temporary order or temporary injunction:

(a) Does not prejudice the rights of the parties or the child which are to be adjudicated at subsequent hearings in the proceeding;

(b) May be revoked or modified before final decree on a showing of the facts necessary to revocation or modification under the circumstances; and

(c) Terminates when the final decree is entered or when the petition for dissolution or legal separation is voluntarily dismissed.

Effective: July 12, 2006
History: Amended 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 126, sec. 3, effective July 12, 2006. -- Amended 2000 Ky. Acts ch. 430, sec. 15, effective July 14, 2000. -- Amended 1998 Ky. Acts ch. 255, sec. 18, effective July 15, 1998. -- Amended 1996 Ky. Acts ch. 365, sec. 5, effective July 15, 1996. -- Amended 1994 Ky. Acts ch. 330, sec. 9, effective July 15, 1994. -- Amended 1990 Ky. Acts ch. 418, sec. 7, effective July 13, 1990. -- Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 6.

Legislative Research Commission Note (7/14/2000). Although House Committee Amendment 1 (adopted by the House of Representatives and concurred in by the Senate) to the General Assembly version of Senate Bill 218 eliminated a new paragraph (c) in KRS 403.212(2) that had required a conforming amendment to this statute to change a cross-reference from "KRS 403.212(2)(g)" to "KRS 403.212(2)(h)" in subsection (2)(a) of this statute, the conforming amendment was not corrected in the floor amendment. Because of this omission and because of the context of the cross-reference, the change in subsection (2)(a) of this statute constitutes a manifest clerical or typographical error and has not been included in codification. See KRS 7.136(1)(h)

403.170 Marriage -- Irretrievable breakdown.

(1) If both of the parties by petition or otherwise have stated under oath or affirmation that the marriage is irretrievably broken, or one of the parties has so stated and the other has not denied it, the court, after hearing, shall make a finding whether the marriage is irretrievably broken. No decree shall be entered until the parties have lived apart for 60 days. Living apart shall include living under the same roof without sexual cohabitation. The court may order a conciliation conference as a part of the hearing.

(2) If one of the parties has denied under oath or affirmation that the marriage is irretrievably broken, the court shall consider all relevant factors, including the circumstances that gave rise to filing the petition and the prospect of reconciliation, and shall:

(a) Make a finding whether the marriage is irretrievably broken; or

(b) Continue the matter for further hearing not fewer than 30 nor more than 60 days later, or as soon thereafter as the matter may be reached on the court's calendar, and may suggest to the parties that they seek counseling. The court, at the request of either party shall, or on its own motion may, order a conciliation conference. At the adjourned hearing the court shall make a finding whether the marriage is irretrievably broken.

(3) A finding of irretrievable breakdown is a determination that there is no reasonable prospect of reconciliation.

Effective: June 17, 1978
History: Amended 1978 Ky. Acts ch. 236, sec. 2, effective June 17, 1978. -- Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 7.

403.180 Separation agreement -- Court may find unconscionable.

(1) To promote amicable settlement of disputes between parties to a marriage attendant upon their separation or the dissolution of their marriage, the parties may enter into a written separation agreement containing provisions for maintenance of either of them, disposition of any property owned by either of them, and custody, support and visitation of their children.

(2) In a proceeding for dissolution of marriage or for legal separation, the terms of the separation agreement, except those providing for the custody, support, and visitation of children, are binding upon the court unless it finds, after considering the economic circumstances of the parties and any other relevant evidence produced by the parties, on their own motion or on request of the court, that the separation agreement is unconscionable.

(3) If the court finds the separation agreement unconscionable, it may request the parties to submit a revised separation agreement or may make orders for the disposition of property, support, and maintenance.

(4) If the court finds that the separation agreement is not unconscionable as to support, maintenance, and property:

(a) Unless the separation agreement provides to the contrary, its terms shall be set forth verbatim or incorporated by reference in the decree of dissolution or legal separation and the parties shall be ordered to perform them; or

(b) If the separation agreement provides that its terms shall not be set forth in the decree, the decree shall identify the separation agreement and state that the court has found the terms not unconscionable.

(5) Terms of the agreement set forth in the decree are enforceable by all remedies available for enforcement of a judgment, including contempt, and are enforceable as contract terms.

(6) Except for terms concerning the support, custody, or visitation of children, the decree may expressly preclude or limit modification of terms if the separation agreement so provides. Otherwise, terms of a separation agreement are automatically modified by modification of the decree.

History: Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 8.

403.190 Disposition of property.

(1) In a proceeding for dissolution of the marriage or for legal separation, or in a proceeding for disposition of property following dissolution of the marriage by a court which lacked personal jurisdiction over the absent spouse or lacked jurisdiction to dispose of the property, the court shall assign each spouse's property to him. It also shall divide the marital property without regard to marital misconduct in just proportions considering all relevant factors including:

(a) Contribution of each spouse to acquisition of the marital property, including contribution of a spouse as homemaker;

(b) Value of the property set apart to each spouse;

(c) Duration of the marriage; and

(d) Economic circumstances of each spouse when the division of property is to become effective, including the desirability of awarding the family home or the right to live therein for reasonable periods to the spouse having custody of any children.

(2) For the purpose of this chapter, "marital property" means all property acquired by either spouse subsequent to the marriage except:

(a) Property acquired by gift, bequest, devise, or descent during the marriage and the income derived therefrom unless there are significant activities of either spouse which contributed to the increase in value of said property and the income earned therefrom;

(b) Property acquired in exchange for property acquired before the marriage or in exchange for property acquired by gift, bequest, devise, or descent;

(c) Property acquired by a spouse after a decree of legal separation;

(d) Property excluded by valid agreement of the parties; and

(e) The increase in value of property acquired before the marriage to the extent that such increase did not result from the efforts of the parties during marriage.

(3) All property acquired by either spouse after the marriage and before a decree of legal separation is presumed to be marital property, regardless of whether title is held individually or by the spouses in some form of co-ownership such as joint tenancy, tenancy in common, tenancy by the entirety, and community property. The presumption of marital property is overcome by a showing that the property was acquired by a method listed in subsection (2) of this section.

(4) If the retirement benefits of one spouse are excepted from classification as marital property, or not considered as an economic circumstance during the division of marital property, then the retirement benefits of the other spouse shall also be excepted, or not considered, as the case may be. However, the level of exception provided to the spouse with the greater retirement benefit shall not exceed the level of exception provided to the other spouse. Retirement benefits, for the purposes of this subsection shall include retirement or disability allowances, accumulated contributions, or any other benefit of a retirement system or plan regulated by the

Employees Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, or of a public retirement system administered by an agency of a state or local government, including deferred compensation plans created pursuant to KRS 18A.230 to 18A.275 or defined contribution or money purchase plans qualified under Section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended.

Effective: July 15, 1996
History: Amended 1996 Ky. Acts ch. 328, secs. 1 and 2, effective July 15, 1996. -- Amended 1986 Ky. Acts ch. 441, sec. 1, effective July 15, 1986. -- Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 9. Legislative Research Commission Note (7/15/96). This section was amended by 1996 Ky. Acts ch. 328, secs. 1 and 2 which do not appear to be in conflict and have been codified together.

403.200 Maintenance -- Court may grant order for either spouse.

(1) In a proceeding for dissolution of marriage or legal separation, or a proceeding for maintenance following dissolution of a marriage by a court which lacked personal jurisdiction over the absent spouse, the court may grant a maintenance order for either spouse only if it finds that the spouse seeking maintenance:

(a) Lacks sufficient property, including marital property apportioned to him, to provide for his reasonable needs; and

(b) Is unable to support himself through appropriate employment or is the custodian of a child whose condition or circumstances make it appropriate that the custodian not be required to seek employment outside the home.

(2) The maintenance order shall be in such amounts and for such periods of time as the court deems just, and after considering all relevant factors including:

(a) The financial resources of the party seeking maintenance, including marital property apportioned to him, and his ability to meet his needs independently, including the extent to which a provision for support of a child living with the party includes a sum for that party as custodian;

(b) The time necessary to acquire sufficient education or training to enable the party seeking maintenance to find appropriate employment;

(c) The standard of living established during the marriage;

(d) The duration of the marriage;

(e) The age, and the physical and emotional condition of the spouse seeking maintenance; and

(f) The ability of the spouse from whom maintenance is sought to meet his needs while meeting those of the spouse seeking maintenance.

History: Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 10.

403.210 Recognition of "Family Support Act of 1988" mandate.

The General Assembly recognizes that under the federal "Family Support Act of 1988," P.L. 100-485, the Commonwealth of Kentucky is required to implement child support guidelines.

Effective: July 13, 1990
History: Repealed and reenacted 1990 Ky. Acts ch. 418, sec. 1, effective July 13, 1990. -- Amended 1988 Ky. Acts ch. 258, sec. 7, effective July 15, 1988. -- Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 11.

403.211 Action to establish or enforce child support -- Rebuttable presumption for award -- Allocation of child-care costs and health care expenses -- Order for payment of health insurance coverage -- Noncustodial parent's health plan -- Attachment of income -- Credit for disability payments.

(1) An action to establish or enforce child support may be initiated by the parent, custodian, or agency substantially contributing to the support of the child. The action may be brought in the county in which the child resides or where the defendant resides.

(2) At the time of initial establishment of a child support order, whether temporary or permanent, or in any proceeding to modify a support order, the child support guidelines in KRS 403.212 shall serve as a rebuttable presumption for the establishment or modification of the amount of child support. Courts may deviate from the guidelines where their application would be unjust or inappropriate. Any deviation shall be accompanied by a written finding or specific finding on the record by the court, specifying the reason for the deviation.

(3) A written finding or specific finding on the record that the application of the guidelines would be unjust or inappropriate in a particular case shall be sufficient to rebut the presumption and allow for an appropriate adjustment of the guideline award if based upon one (1) or more of the following criteria:

(a) A child's extraordinary medical or dental needs;

(b) A child's extraordinary educational, job training, or special needs;

(c) Either parent's own extraordinary needs, such as medical expenses;

(d) The independent financial resources, if any, of the child or children;

(e) Combined monthly adjusted parental gross income in excess of the Kentucky child support guidelines;

(f) The parents of the child, having demonstrated knowledge of the amount of child support established by the Kentucky child support guidelines, have agreed to child support different from the guideline amount. However, no such agreement shall be the basis of any deviation if public assistance is being paid on behalf of a child under the provisions of Part D of Title IV of the Federal Social Security Act; and

(g) Any similar factor of an extraordinary nature specifically identified by the court which would make application of the guidelines inappropriate.

(4) "Extraordinary" as used in this section shall be determined by the court in its discretion.

(5) When a party has defaulted or the court is otherwise presented with insufficient evidence to determine gross income, the court shall order child support based upon the needs of the child or the previous standard of living of the child, whichever is greater. An order entered by default or due to insufficient evidence to determine gross income may be modified upward and arrearages awarded from the date of the original order if evidence of gross income is presented within two (2) years which would have established a higher amount of child support pursuant to the child support guidelines set forth in KRS 403.212.

(6) The court shall allocate between the parents, in proportion to their combined monthly adjusted parental gross income, reasonable and necessary child care costs incurred due to employment, job search, or education leading to employment, in addition to the amount ordered under the child support guidelines.

(7) (a) If private health care insurance coverage is reasonable in cost and accessible to either parent at the time the request for coverage is made, the court shall order the parent to obtain or maintain coverage, and the court shall allocate between the parents, in proportion to their combined monthly adjusted parental gross income, the cost of health care insurance coverage for the child, in addition to the support ordered under the child support guidelines.

(b) A parent, who has one hundred percent (100%) of the combined monthly adjusted parental gross income, shall be entitled to a reduction in gross income of the entire amount of premiums incurred and paid.

(c) The court shall order the cost of health care of the child to be paid by either or both parents of the child regardless of who has physical custody. The court order shall include:

1. A judicial directive designating which parent shall have financial responsibility for providing health care for the dependent child, which shall include but not be limited to private health care insurance coverage, payments of necessary health care deductibles or copayments;

2. If appropriate, cash medical support. "Cash medical support" means an amount to be paid toward the cost of health care insurance coverage that is provided by a public entity, including the Kentucky Children's Health Insurance Program or the Kentucky Medicaid program, or another parent or person with whom the child resides through employment or otherwise, fixed payments for ongoing medical costs, extraordinary medical expenses, or any combination thereof; and

3. A statement providing that if the designated parent's health care coverage provides for covered services for dependent children beyond the age of majority, then any unmarried children up to twenty-five (25) years of age who are full-time students enrolled in and attending an accredited educational institution and who are primarily dependent on the insured parent for maintenance and support shall be covered.

(d) If private health care insurance coverage is not reasonable in cost and accessible at the time the request for the coverage is made, the court order shall provide for cash medical support until private health care insurance coverage becomes reasonable in cost and accessible.

(8) (a) For purposes of this section, "reasonable in cost" means that the cost of coverage to the responsible parent does not exceed five percent (5%) of his or her gross income. The five percent (5%) standard shall apply to the cost of adding the child to an existing policy, the difference in the cost between a single and a family policy, or the cost of acquiring a separate policy to cover the child. If the parties agree or the court finds good cause exists, the court may order medical coverage in excess of five percent (5%) of the parent's gross income.

(b) For purposes of this section, "accessible" means that there are providers who meet the health care needs of the child and who are located no more than sixty (60) minutes or sixty (60) miles from the child's primary residence, except that nothing shall prohibit use of a provider located more than sixty (60) minutes or sixty (60) miles from the child's primary residence.

(9) The cost of extraordinary medical expenses shall be allocated between the parties in proportion to their combined monthly adjusted parental gross incomes. "Extraordinary medical expenses" means uninsured expenses in excess of one hundred dollars ($100) per child per calendar year. "Extraordinary medical expenses" includes but is not limited to the costs that are reasonably necessary for medical, surgical, dental, orthodontal, optometric, nursing, and hospital services; for professional counseling or psychiatric therapy for diagnosed medical disorders; and for drugs and medical supplies, appliances, laboratory, diagnostic, and therapeutic services.

(10) The court order shall include the Social Security numbers, provided in accordance with KRS 403.135, of all parties subject to a support order.

(11) In any case administered by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, if the parent ordered to provide health care coverage is enrolled through an insurer but fails to enroll the child under family coverage, the other parent or the Cabinet for Health and Family Services may, upon application, enroll the child.

(12) In any case administered by the cabinet, information received or transmitted shall not be published or be open for public inspection, including reasonable evidence of domestic violence or child abuse if the disclosure of the information could be harmful to the custodial parent or the child of the parent. Necessary information and records may be furnished as specified by KRS 205.175.

(13) In the case in which a parent is obligated to provide health care insurance coverage, and changes employment, and the new employer provides health care insurance coverage, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services shall transfer notice of the provision for coverage for the child to the employer, which shall operate to enroll this child in the obligated parent's health plan, unless the obligated parent contests the notice as specified by KRS Chapter 13B.

(14) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, any wage or income shall not be exempt from attachment or assignment for the payment of current child support or owed or to-be-owed child support.

(15) A payment of money received by a child as a result of a parental disability shall be credited against the child support obligation of the parent. A payment shall not be counted as income to either parent when calculating a child support obligation. An amount received in excess of the child support obligation shall be credited against a child support arrearage owed by the parent that accrued subsequent to the date of the parental disability, but shall not be applied to an arrearage that accrued prior to the date of disability. The date of disability shall be as determined by the paying agency.

Effective: June 25, 2009
History: Amended 2009 Ky. Acts ch. 82, sec. 1, effective June 25, 2009. -- Amended 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 126, sec. 4, effective July 12, 2006. -- Amended 2005 Ky. Acts ch. 99, sec. 624, effective June 20, 2005. -- Amended 2000 Ky. Acts ch. 430, sec. 18, effective July 14, 2000. -- Amended 1998 Ky. Acts ch. 255, sec. 19, effective July 15, 1998; and ch. 426, sec. 579, effective July 15, 1998. -- Amended 1996 Ky. Acts ch. 328, sec. 3, effective July 15, 1996. -- Amended 1994 Ky. Acts ch. 330, sec. 10, effective July 15, 1994. -- Created 1990 Ky. Acts ch. 418, sec. 2, effective July 13, 1990.

403.212 Child support guidelines -- Terms to be applied in calculations -- Table.

(1) The following provisions and child support table shall be the child support guidelines established for the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

(2) For the purposes of the child support guidelines:

(a) "Income" means actual gross income of the parent if employed to full capacity or potential income if unemployed or underemployed.

(b) "Gross income" includes income from any source, except as excluded in this subsection, and includes but is not limited to income from salaries, wages, retirement and pension funds, commissions, bonuses, dividends, severance pay, pensions, interest, trust income, annuities, capital gains, Social Security benefits, workers' compensation benefits, unemployment insurance benefits, disability insurance benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), gifts, prizes, and alimony or maintenance received. Specifically excluded are benefits received from means-tested public assistance programs, including but not limited to public assistance as defined under Title IV-A of the Federal Social Security Act, and food stamps.

(c) For income from self-employment, rent, royalties, proprietorship of a business, or joint ownership of a partnership or closely held corporation, "gross income" means gross receipts minus ordinary and necessary expenses required for self-employment or business operation. Straight-line depreciation, using Internal Revenue Service (IRS) guidelines, shall be the only allowable method of calculating depreciation expense in determining gross income. Specifically excluded from ordinary and necessary expenses for purposes of this guideline shall be investment tax credits or any other business expenses inappropriate for determining gross income for purposes of calculating child support. Income and expenses from self-employment or operation of a business shall be carefully reviewed to determine an appropriate level of gross income available to the parent to satisfy a child support obligation. In most cases, this amount will differ from a determination of business income for tax purposes. Expense reimbursement or in-kind payments received by a parent in the course of employment, self-employment, or operation of a business or personal use of business property or payments of expenses by a business, shall be counted as income if they are significant and reduce personal living expenses such as a company or business car, free housing, reimbursed meals, or club dues.

(d) If a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, child support shall be calculated based on a determination of potential income, except that a determination of potential income shall not be made for a parent who is physically or mentally incapacitated or is caring for a very young child, age three (3) or younger, for whom the parents owe a joint legal responsibility. Potential income shall be determined based upon employment potential and probable earnings level based on the obligor's or obligee's recent work history, occupational qualifications, and prevailing job opportunities and earnings levels in the community. A court may find a parent to be voluntarily unemployed or underemployed without finding that the parent intended to avoid or reduce the child support obligation.

(e) "Imputed child support obligation" means the amount of child support the parent would be required to pay from application of the child support guidelines.

(f) Income statements of the parents shall be verified by documentation of both current and past income. Suitable documentation shall include, but shall not be limited to, income tax returns, paystubs, employer statements, or receipts and expenses if self-employed.

(g) "Combined monthly adjusted parental gross income" means the combined monthly gross incomes of both parents, less any of the following payments made by the parent: 1. The amount of pre-existing orders for current maintenance for prior spouses to the extent payment is actually made and the amount of current maintenance, if any, ordered paid in the proceeding before the court;

2. The amount of pre-existing orders of current child support for prior-born children to the extent payment is actually made under those orders; and

3. A deduction for the support to the extent payment is made, if a parent is legally responsible for and is actually providing support for other prior-born children who are not the subject of a particular proceeding. If the prior-born children reside with that parent, an "imputed child support obligation" shall be allowed in the amount which would result from application of the guidelines for the support of the prior-born children.

(h) "Split custody arrangement" means a situation where each parent is the residential custodian for one (1) or more children for whom the parents share a joint legal responsibility.

(3) The child support obligation set forth in the child support guidelines table shall be divided between the parents in proportion to their combined monthly adjusted parental gross income.

(4) The child support obligation shall be the appropriate amount for the number of children in the table for whom the parents share a joint legal responsibility. The minimum amount of child support shall be sixty dollars ($60) per month.

(5) The court may use its judicial discretion in determining child support in circumstances where combined adjusted parental gross income exceeds the uppermost levels of the guideline table.

(6) The child support obligation in a split custody arrangement shall be calculated in the following manner:

(a) Two (2) separate child support obligation worksheets shall be prepared, one (1) for each household, using the number of children born of the relationship in each separate household, rather than the total number of children born of the relationship.

(b) The nonresidential custodian with the greater monthly obligation amount shall pay the difference between the obligation amounts, as determined by the worksheets, to the other parent.

(7) The child support guidelines table can be found by searching article 403.212 of the states code.

Effective: July 14, 2000
History: Amended 2000 Ky. Acts ch. 430, sec. 9, effective July 14, 2000. -- Amended 1998 Ky. Acts ch. 100, sec. 8, effective July 15, 1998; and ch. 255, sec. 20, effective July 15, 1998. -- Amended 1996 Ky. Acts ch. 365, sec. 6, effective July 15, 1996. -- Amended 1994 Ky. Acts ch. 330, sec. 11, effective July 15, 1994. -- Created 1990 Ky. Acts ch. 418, sec. 3, effective July 13, 1990.

403.213 Criteria for modification of orders for child support and for health care -- Effects of emancipation and death of obligated parent -- Commission to review guidelines.

(1) The Kentucky child support guidelines may be used by the parent, custodian, or agency substantially contributing to the support of the child as the basis for periodic updates of child support obligations and for modification of child support orders for health care. The provisions of any decree respecting child support may be modified only as to installments accruing subsequent to the filing of the motion for modification and only upon a showing of a material change in circumstances that is substantial and continuing.

(2) Application of the Kentucky child support guidelines to the circumstances of the parties at the time of the filing of a motion or petition for modification of the child support order which results in equal to or greater than a fifteen percent (15%) change in the amount of support due per month shall be rebuttably presumed to be a material change in circumstances. Application which results in less than a fifteen percent (15%) change in the amount of support due per month shall be rebuttably presumed not to be a material change in circumstances. For the one (1) year period immediately following enactment of this statute, the presumption of material change shall be a twenty-five percent (25%) change in the amount of child support due rather than the fifteen percent (15%) stated above.

(3) Unless otherwise agreed in writing or expressly provided in the decree, provisions for the support of a child shall be terminated by emancipation of the child unless the child is a high school student when he reaches the age of eighteen (18). In cases where the child becomes emancipated because of age, but not due to marriage, while still a high school student, the court-ordered support shall continue while the child is a high school student, but not beyond completion of the school year during which the child reaches the age of nineteen (19) years. Provisions for the support of the child shall not be terminated by the death of a parent obligated to support the child. If a parent obligated to pay support dies, the amount of support may be modified, revoked, or commuted to a lump-sum payment, to the extent just and appropriate in the circumstances. Emancipation of the child shall not terminate the obligation of child support arrearages that accrued while the child was an unemancipated minor.

(4) The child support guidelines table shall be reviewed at least once every four (4) years by a commission consisting of the following persons:

(a) The secretary of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services or a supervisory staff person designated by him;

(b) Two (2) members of the Kentucky Bar Association who have at least six (6) consecutive years' experience and are presently practicing domestic relations cases, one (1) member from a metropolitan or large urban area and one (1) member from a less populated area;

(c) Two (2) Circuit Judges appointed by the Chief Justice of the Kentucky Supreme Court, one (1) from a metropolitan or large urban area, and one (1) from a less populated area;

(d) One (1) District Judge appointed by the Chief Justice of the Kentucky Supreme Court;

(e) Two (2) county attorneys appointed by the president of the County Attorneys Association, one (1) from a metropolitan or large urban area and one (1) from a less populated area;

(f) The Attorney General or his designee, who shall be an attorney from his office;

(g) One (1) person who is a custodial parent;

(h) One (1) person who is a noncustodial parent;

(i) One (1) person who is a parent with split custody; and

(j) One (1) child advocate.

The members designated in paragraphs (g) to (j) of this subsection shall be appointed by the Governor from a list of three (3) names for each category submitted by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. If the status of one (1) of these members changes, the member shall be replaced through appointment by the Governor from a list of three (3) names submitted by the cabinet. (5) The commission shall make a recommendation to the Kentucky General Assembly to ensure that the child support guidelines table results in a determination of appropriate child support amounts.

Effective: June 20, 2005
History: Amended 2005 Ky. Acts ch. 99, sec. 625, effective June 20, 2005. -- Amended 2001 Ky. Acts ch. 161, sec. 1, effective March 21, 2001. -- Amended 2000 Ky. Acts ch. 430, sec. 10, effective July 14, 2000. -- Amended 1998 Ky. Acts ch. 426, sec. 580, effective July 15, 1998. -- Amended 1994 Ky. Acts ch. 330, sec. 12, effective July 15, 1994. – Amended 1992 Ky. Acts ch. 434, sec. 3, effective July 14, 1992. -- Created 1990 Ky. Acts ch. 418, sec. 4, effective July 13, 1990.

403.215 Assignment of wages for child support obligations.

After July 15, 1990, any new or modified order or decree which contains provisions for the support of a minor child or minor children, shall provide for a wage assignment which shall begin immediately except for good cause shown, and which shall be paid based upon the payment schedule of wages of the employer to whom the wage assignment is directed, and at a minimum, on a monthly basis. If good cause is shown, the wage assignment shall take effect when an arrearage accrues that is equal to the amount of support payable for one (1) month, pursuant to KRS 405.465.

Effective: July 15, 1998
History: Amended 1998 Ky. Acts ch. 255, sec. 50, effective July 15, 1998. -- Amended 1990 Ky. Acts ch. 418, sec. 14, effective July 13, 1990. -- Amended 1988 Ky. Acts ch. 411, sec. 3, effective July 15, 1988. -- Created 1986 Ky. Acts ch. 487, sec. 11, effective July 15, 1986

403.220 Costs of action and attorney's fees.

The court from time to time after considering the financial resources of both parties may order a party to pay a reasonable amount for the cost to the other party of maintaining or defending any proceeding under this chapter and for attorney's fees, including sums for legal services rendered and costs incurred prior to the commencement of the proceeding or after entry of judgment. The court may order that the amount be paid directly to the attorney, who may enforce the order in his name.

History: Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 12.

403.230 Legal separation -- Court may convert, to a decree of dissolution -- Restoration of former name.

(1) No earlier than one year after entry of a decree of legal separation, the court on motion of either party shall convert the decree to a decree of dissolution of marriage.

(2) Upon request by a wife whose marriage is dissolved or declared invalid, the court may, and if there are no children of the parties shall, order her maiden name or a former name restored.

History: Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 13

403.240 Decree or temporary order -- Failure to comply with -- Good-cause defense -- Attorney's fees.

(1) If a party fails to comply with a provision of a decree or temporary order or injunction, the obligation of the other party to make payments for support or maintenance or to permit visitation is not suspended; but he may move the court to grant an appropriate order.

(2) The failure of either party, without good cause, to comply with a provision of a decree or temporary order or injunction, including a provision with respect to visitation or child support shall constitute contempt of court, and the court shall remedy the failure to comply.

(3) Good cause not to comply with a provision of a decree or temporary order or injunction with respect to visitation shall include mutual consent of the parties, reasonable belief by either party that there exists the possibility of endangerment to the physical, mental, moral, or emotional health of the child, or endangerment to the physical safety of either party, or extraordinary circumstances as determined by the court.

(4) The court may, if no reasonable cause is found for denial of visitation, award attorney's fees to the prevailing party.

Effective: July 14, 1992
History: Amended 1992 Ky. Acts ch. 414, sec. 2, effective July 14, 1992. -- Amended 1980 Ky. Acts ch. 188, sec. 286, effective July 15, 1980. -- Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 14.

403.250 Modification or termination of provisions for maintenance and property disposition.

(1) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (6) of KRS 403.180, the provisions of any decree respecting maintenance may be modified only upon a showing of changed circumstances so substantial and continuing as to make the terms unconscionable. The provisions as to property disposition may not be revoked or modified, unless the court finds the existence of conditions that justify the reopening of a judgment under the laws of this state.

(2) Unless otherwise agreed in writing or expressly provided in the decree, the obligation to pay future maintenance is terminated upon the death of either party or the remarriage of the party receiving maintenance.

Effective: July 13, 1990
History: Amended 1990 Ky. Acts ch. 418, sec. 5, effective July 13, 1990. -- Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 15.

403.270 Custodial issues -- Best interests of child shall determine -- Joint custody permitted -- De facto custodian.

(1) (a) As used in this chapter and KRS 405.020, unless the context requires otherwise, "de facto custodian" means a person who has been shown by clear and convincing evidence to have been the primary caregiver for, and financial supporter of, a child who has resided with the person for a period of six (6) months or more if the child is under three (3) years of age and for a period of one

(1) year or more if the child is three (3) years of age or older or has been placed by the Department for Community Based Services. Any period of time after a legal proceeding has been commenced by a parent seeking to regain custody of the child shall not be included in determining whether the child has resided with the person for the required minimum period.

(b) A person shall not be a de facto custodian until a court determines by clear and convincing evidence that the person meets the definition of de facto custodian established in paragraph (a) of this subsection. Once a court determines that a person meets the definition of de facto custodian, the court shall give the person the same standing in custody matters that is given to each parent under this section and KRS 403.280, 403.340, 403.350, 403.822, and 405.020.

(2) The court shall determine custody in accordance with the best interests of the child and equal consideration shall be given to each parent and to any de facto custodian. The court shall consider all relevant factors including:

(a) The wishes of the child's parent or parents, and any de facto custodian, as to his custody;

(b) The wishes of the child as to his custodian;

(c) The interaction and interrelationship of the child with his parent or parents, his siblings, and any other person who may significantly affect the child's best interests;

(d) The child's adjustment to his home, school, and community;

(e) The mental and physical health of all individuals involved;

(f) Information, records, and evidence of domestic violence as defined in KRS 403.720;

(g) The extent to which the child has been cared for, nurtured, and supported by any de facto custodian;

(h) The intent of the parent or parents in placing the child with a de facto custodian; and

(i) The circumstances under which the child was placed or allowed to remain in the custody of a de facto custodian, including whether the parent now seeking custody was previously prevented from doing so as a result of domestic violence as defined in KRS 403.720 and whether the child was placed with a de facto custodian to allow the parent now seeking custody to seek employment, work, or attend school.

(3) The court shall not consider conduct of a proposed custodian that does not affect his relationship to the child. If domestic violence and abuse is alleged, the court shall determine the extent to which the domestic violence and abuse has affected the child and the child's relationship to both parents.

(4) The abandonment of the family residence by a custodial party shall not be considered where said party was physically harmed or was seriously threatened with physical harm by his or her spouse, when such harm or threat of harm was causally related to the abandonment.

(5) The court may grant joint custody to the child's parents, or to the child's parents and a de facto custodian, if it is in the best interest of the child.

(6) If the court grants custody to a de facto custodian, the de facto custodian shall have legal custody under the laws of the Commonwealth.

Effective: July 13, 2004
History: Amended 2004 Ky. Acts ch. 133, sec. 42, effective July 13, 2004. -- Amended 2000 Ky. Acts ch. 14, sec. 51, effective July 14, 2000. -- Amended 1998 Ky. Acts ch. 250, sec. 1, effective July 15, 1998. -- Amended 1992 Ky. Acts ch. 169, sec. 2, effective July 14, 1992. -- Amended 1980 Ky. Acts ch. 158, sec. 1, effective July 15, 1980. -- Amended 1978 Ky. Acts ch. 86, sec. 1, effective June 17, 1978; and ch. 369, sec. 1, effective June 17, 1978. -- Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 17.

403.280 Temporary custody orders.

(1) A party to a custody proceeding may move for a temporary custody order. The motion must be supported by an affidavit as provided in KRS 403.350. The court may award temporary custody under the standards of KRS 403.270 after a hearing, or, if there is no objection, solely on the basis of the affidavits.

(2) If a proceeding for dissolution of marriage or legal separation is dismissed, any temporary custody order is vacated unless a parent or the child's custodian moves that the proceeding continue as a custody proceeding and the court finds, after a hearing, that the circumstances of the parents and the best interests of the child require that a custody decree be issued.

(3) If a custody proceeding commenced in the absence of a petition for dissolution of marriage or legal separation under KRS 403.822(1)(a) or (b) is dismissed, any temporary custody order is vacated.

(4) If a court determines by clear and convincing evidence that a person is a de facto custodian, the court shall join that person in the action, as a party needed for just adjudication under Rule 19 of the Kentucky Rules of Civil Procedure.

Effective: July 13, 2004
History: Amended 2004 Ky. Acts ch. 133, sec. 43, effective July 13, 2004. -- Amended 1998 Ky. Acts ch. 250, sec. 2, effective July 15, 1998. -- Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 18.

403.290 Child: court may interview, court may seek advice of professional personnel.

(1) The court may interview the child in chambers to ascertain the child's wishes as to his custodian and as to visitation. The court may permit counsel to be present at the interview. The court shall cause a record of the interview to be made and to be part of the record in the case.

(2) The court may seek the advice of professional personnel, whether or not employed by the court on a regular basis. The advice given shall be in writing and made available by the court to counsel upon request. Counsel may examine as a witness any professional personnel consulted by the court.

History: Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 19.

403.300 Investigation: court may order in custody proceedings -- Attorney to receive copy.

(1) In contested custody proceedings, and in other custody proceedings if a parent or the child's custodian so requests, the court may order an investigation and report concerning custodial arrangements for the child. The investigation and report may be made by the friend of the court or such other agency as the court may select.

(2) In preparing his report concerning a child, the investigator may consult any person who may have information about the child and his potential custodial arrangements. Upon order of the court, the investigator may refer the child to professional personnel for diagnosis. The investigator may consult with and obtain information from medical, psychiatric, or other expert persons who have served the child in the past without obtaining the consent of the parent or the child's custodian; but the child's consent must be obtained if he has reached the age of 16, unless the court finds that he lacks mental capacity to consent. If the requirements of subsection (3) are fulfilled, the investigator's report may be received in evidence at the hearing.

(3) The clerk shall mail the investigator's report to counsel and to any party not represented by counsel at least 10 days prior to the hearing. The investigator shall make available to counsel and to any party not represented by counsel the investigator's file of underlying data, and reports, complete texts of diagnostic reports made to the investigator pursuant to the provisions of subsection

(2), and the names and addresses of all persons whom the investigator has consulted. Any party to the proceeding may call the investigator and any person whom he has consulted for cross-examination. A party may not waive his right of cross-examination prior to the hearing.

History: Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 20

403.310 Hearings: custody proceedings shall receive priority.

(1) Custody proceedings shall receive priority in being set for hearing.

(2) The court may tax as costs the payment of necessary travel and other expenses incurred by any person whose presence at the hearing the court deems necessary to determine the best interests of the child.

(3) The court without a jury shall determine questions of law and fact. If it finds that a public hearing may be detrimental to the child's best interests, the court may exclude the public from a custody hearing, but may admit any person who has a direct and legitimate interest in the particular case or a legitimate educational or research interest in the work of the court.

(4) If the court finds it necessary to protect the child's welfare that the record of any interview, report, investigation, or testimony in a custody proceeding be kept secret, the court may make an appropriate order sealing the record.

History: Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 21.

403.320 Visitation of minor child.

(1) A parent not granted custody of the child is entitled to reasonable visitation rights unless the court finds, after a hearing, that visitation would endanger seriously the child's physical, mental, moral, or emotional health. Upon request of either party, the court shall issue orders which are specific as to the frequency, timing, duration, conditions, and method of scheduling visitation and which reflect the development age of the child.

(2) If domestic violence and abuse, as defined in KRS 403.720, has been alleged, the court shall, after a hearing, determine the visitation arrangement, if any, which would not endanger seriously the child's or the custodial parent's physical, mental, or emotional health.

(3) The court may modify an order granting or denying visitation rights whenever modification would serve the best interests of the child; but the court shall not restrict a parent's visitation rights unless it finds that the visitation would endanger seriously the child's physical, mental, moral, or emotional health.

Effective: July 14, 1992
History: Amended 1992 Ky. Acts ch. 169, sec. 3, effective July 14, 1992; and ch. 414, sec. 1, effective July 14, 1992. -- Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 22.

Legislative Research Commission Note (7/14/92) This section was amended by two 1992 Acts which do not appear to be in conflict and have been compiled together.

403.325 Visitation denied parent convicted of homicide of other parent -- Exception -- Hearing required.

(1) Notwithstanding the provisions of KRS 403.320, if a parent of a child is convicted of murder or manslaughter in the first degree of the other parent, a court shall not grant the convicted parent visitation rights with respect to that child unless the court, through a hearing, determines that visitation is in the child's best interest.

(2) If the court later modifies a denial of visitation to grant visitation, the court shall do so only after a hearing which establishes that visitation is in the child's best interest.

(3) In any hearing conducted under subsection (1) or (2) of this section:

(a) Jurisdiction shall lie with the Circuit Court of the county where the child resides; and

(b) The convicted parent, to obtain visitation, shall have to meet the burden of proving that visitation is in the child's best interest.

Effective: July 14, 2000
History: Created 2000 Ky. Acts ch. 58, sec. 1, effective July 14, 2000.

403.330 Judicial supervision of custody decree or agreement.

(1) Except as otherwise agreed by the parties in writing at the time of the custody decree, the custodian may determine the child's upbringing, including his education, health care, and religious training, unless the court after hearing, finds, upon motion by the noncustodial parent, that in the absence of a specific limitation of the custodian's authority, the child's physical health would be endangered or his emotional development significantly impaired.

(2) If both parents or all contestants agree to the order, or if the court finds that in the absence of the order the child's physical health would be endangered or his emotional development significantly impaired, the court may order the local probation, another appropriate local entity, or if currently involved in the case, the child welfare department to exercise continuing supervision over the case to assure that the custodial or visitation terms of the decree are carried out.

Effective: July 15, 1998
History: Amended 1998 Ky. Acts ch. 338, sec. 1, effective July 15, 1998. -- Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 23.

403.340 Modification of custody decree -- Modification based on active duty deployment to revert back on parent or custodian's return.

(1) As used in this section, "custody" means sole or joint custody, whether ordered by a court or agreed to by the parties.

(2) No motion to modify a custody decree shall be made earlier than two (2) years after its date, unless the court permits it to be made on the basis of affidavits that there is reason to believe that:

(a) The child's present environment may endanger seriously his physical, mental, moral, or emotional health; or

(b) The custodian appointed under the prior decree has placed the child with a de facto custodian.

(3) If a court of this state has jurisdiction pursuant to the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act, the court shall not modify a prior custody decree unless after hearing it finds, upon the basis of facts that have arisen since the prior decree or that were unknown to the court at the time of entry of the prior decree, that a change has occurred in the circumstances of the child or his custodian, and that the modification is necessary to serve the best interests of the child. When determining if a change has occurred and whether a modification of custody is in the best interests of the child, the court shall consider the following:

(a) Whether the custodian agrees to the modification;

(b) Whether the child has been integrated into the family of the petitioner with consent of the custodian;

(c) The factors set forth in KRS 403.270(2) to determine the best interests of the child;

(d) Whether the child's present environment endangers seriously his physical, mental, moral, or emotional health;

(e) Whether the harm likely to be caused by a change of environment is outweighed by its advantages to him; and

(f) Whether the custodian has placed the child with a de facto custodian.

(4) In determining whether a child's present environment may endanger seriously his physical, mental, moral, or emotional health, the court shall consider all relevant factors, including, but not limited to:

(a) The interaction and interrelationship of the child with his parent or parents, his de facto custodian, his siblings, and any other person who may significantly affect the child's best interests;

(b) The mental and physical health of all individuals involved;

(c) Repeated or substantial failure, without good cause as specified in KRS 403.240, of either parent to observe visitation, child support, or other provisions of the decree which affect the child, except that modification of custody orders shall not be made solely on the basis of failure to comply with visitation or child support provisions, or on the basis of which parent is more likely to allow visitation or pay child support;

(d) If domestic violence and abuse, as defined in KRS 403.720, is found by the court to exist, the extent to which the domestic violence and abuse has affected the child and the child's relationship to both parents.

(5) (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this subsection, any court-ordered modification of a child custody decree, based in whole or in part on:

1. The active duty of a parent or a de facto custodian as a regular member of the United States Armed Forces deployed outside the United States; or

2. Any federal active duty of a parent or a de facto custodian as a member of a state National Guard or a Reserve component; shall be temporary and shall revert back to the previous child custody decree at the end of the deployment outside the United States or the federal active duty, as appropriate.

(b) A parent or de facto custodian identified in paragraph (a) of this subsection may consent to a modification of a child custody decree that continues past the end of the deployment outside the United States or the federal active duty, as appropriate.

(6) Attorney fees and costs shall be assessed against a party seeking modification if the court finds that the modification action is vexatious and constitutes harassment. Effective: April 25, 2006
History: Amended 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 252, Pt. XXVIII, sec. 10, effective April 25, 2006. -- Amended 2001 Ky. Acts ch. 161, sec. 2, effective March 21, 2001. -- Amended 1998 Ky. Acts ch. 250, sec. 3, effective July 15, 1998. -- Amended 1992 Ky. Acts ch. 414, sec. 3, effective July 14, 1992. -- Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 24.

403.350 Affidavit required with motion for temporary custody order or for modification of custody decree.

A party seeking a temporary custody order or modification of a custody decree shall submit together with his moving papers an affidavit setting forth facts supporting the requested order or modification and shall give notice, together with a copy of his affidavit, to other parties to the proceeding, who may file opposing affidavits. If a court determines that a child is in the custody of a de facto custodian, the court shall make the de facto custodian a party to the proceeding. The court shall deny the motion unless it finds that adequate cause for hearing the motion is established by the affidavits, in which case it shall set a date for hearing on an order to show cause why the requested order or modification should not be granted.

Effective: July 15, 1998
History: Amended 1998 Ky. Acts ch. 250, sec. 4, effective July 15, 1998. -- Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 25.

(Make sure to consult a lawyer or check your local laws for any changes.)