In Kentucky, once an absolute divorce has been granted, there are no restrictions on how soon you can remarry. This means that as soon as your divorce is finalized by the court and the final decree is issued, you are legally free to remarry immediately.
Understanding the Kentucky Divorce Process
While there's no waiting period after the final divorce decree for remarriage, it's important to understand the procedural timeline for obtaining the divorce itself in Kentucky.
- 60-Day Waiting Period for Divorce Decree: Kentucky law requires a waiting period before a final divorce judgment can be entered by the court. The final judgment of divorce cannot be granted before the end of 60 days from the date the respondent was served with the petition, or from the date the parties separated if they have lived apart without cohabitation. This period allows time for any procedural requirements to be met and for the parties to potentially reconcile or resolve all outstanding issues related to the divorce.
- Marriage Status During Waiting Period: It's crucial to understand that during this 60-day period before the final decree is issued, your marriage is still legally recognized. You are not considered divorced until the court formally enters the final decree.
- Absolute Divorce: Remarriage is only permissible after the court has issued an "absolute divorce" decree. This is the final legal document that officially terminates the marriage and restores both parties to the status of single persons.
Key Takeaways for Remarriage in Kentucky
To summarize the essential points regarding remarriage after divorce in Kentucky:
- No Post-Divorce Waiting Period: Once your divorce is finalized and you have received an absolute divorce decree, you are immediately free to remarry. There are no state-mandated waiting periods that prevent you from tying the knot again following the finalization of your divorce.
- Ensure Finality: It is absolutely crucial to confirm that your divorce is officially final and that the absolute decree has been entered by the court before making any plans for remarriage. Attempting to remarry before the final decree can lead to legal complications, including the potential for the new marriage to be deemed void.
- Verify with Court Records: If you are unsure about the final status of your divorce, you should always check with the clerk of the court where your divorce was filed to obtain confirmation and a copy of the final decree.
For more detailed information on Kentucky family law statutes, you can refer to official state legal resources.
