Kentucky2026Active
HB109
Waiting Period for Divorce Cases with Children
Last scannedAug 24, 2026, 10:26 AM
In one sentence
This bill requires courts to wait at least 60 days before hearing testimony in divorce cases involving minor children, unless the parties have finished specific settlement processes.
What it does
- Sets a waiting period of 60 days before any testimony can be heard in divorces with minor children who are from that marriage.
- Starts the 60-day count from the date service is made, an attorney for warning orders is appointed, or the defendant files an appearance or responsive pleading, whichever happens first.
- Allows courts to hear testimony on temporary motions during this waiting period.
- Removes the waiting requirement if parties finish collaborative law and file a notice of that process, a property and custody agreement, and a proposed decree with the court.
- Removes the waiting requirement if parties finish family mediation and file a notice of completion, a property and custody agreement, and a proposed decree with the court.
Who it affects
- Parents seeking a divorce who have minor children from that marriage
- Courts handling these specific divorce cases
Limits and unknowns
- The bill does not list an effective date.
- This rule only applies to divorces involving minor children who are the issue of that marriage.
Official record
Sources
Official summary
AN ACT relating to the dissolution of marriage.