Kentucky
Kentucky Restraining Order Laws (2026): How to Get a Protective Order
Independently fact-checked against primary sources (last audited August 17, 2026). · Reviewed by the RecordingLaw editorial team. · Law checked current as of August 17, 2026. · 3 primary sources cited on this page. How we verify our legal content
In Kentucky, a Domestic Violence Order (DVO) protects victims of family violence and can last up to 3 years per term. For dating partners who do not share a household, an Interpersonal Protective Order (IPO) provides the same protection. Filing is free, and a judge can issue an Emergency Protective Order (EPO) the same day, before the respondent is notified.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For confidential help 24/7, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (text START to 88788).
Types of restraining orders in Kentucky
Kentucky law provides several overlapping protective order tracks. The Domestic Violence Order (DVO) is the core civil remedy for family members and household members. It is preceded by an Emergency Protective Order (EPO), which a judge issues ex parte (without the respondent present) when there is immediate danger of domestic violence. Together, the EPO and DVO are governed by KRS Chapter 403.
The Interpersonal Protective Order (IPO), found in KRS Chapter 456, fills an important gap. Under KRS 456.030(1), a petition may be filed by a victim of dating violence and abuse, a victim of stalking, or a victim of sexual assault. Only the dating-violence category requires a dating or intimate relationship with the respondent; the stalking and sexual-assault categories require no relationship with the respondent at all. The IPO has the same protection and duration as a DVO.
Kentucky does not have a separate stand-alone stalking order: a stalking victim with no relationship to the respondent uses the same Interpersonal Protective Order track described above. Together, the DVO/EPO and IPO tracks ensure that nearly every victim of intimate-partner violence, family violence, stalking, or sexual assault has a civil remedy in Kentucky courts.
Who can get a restraining order in Kentucky?
For the Domestic Violence Order (DVO) and Emergency Protective Order (EPO), you must have a qualifying family or household relationship with the respondent. Qualifying relationships under KRS 403.720 include:
- Current or former spouses
- Parents, children, and stepchildren
- Grandparents and grandchildren
- Adult siblings
- Persons who share a child in common
- Persons who currently or formerly lived together in the same household
The Interpersonal Protective Order (IPO) extends coverage to three categories of petitioners under KRS 456.030(1): victims of dating violence and abuse (a person who dated someone but never cohabited must use the IPO track, not the DVO track), victims of stalking, and victims of sexual assault. Only the dating-violence category requires any relationship with the respondent; a stalking or sexual-assault victim may petition regardless of any connection to the respondent.
For stalking and sexual-assault victims, KRS 456.030(1) allows an IPO petition with no relationship to the respondent required at all. If someone is following, threatening, or surveilling you and you have no qualifying connection to them, you may petition for an IPO in District or Circuit Court under this stalking category.
Kentucky's protective-order statutes set no minimum age for a petitioner. KRS 403.725(1) and KRS 456.030(1) provide that a victim may file, and that an adult may file on behalf of a victim who is a minor. When a minor is the petitioner or the respondent, KRS 403.727 and KRS 456.035 add procedural safeguards, including appointment of a guardian ad litem for an unrepresented minor.
How to file for a restraining order in Kentucky
Venue is set by statute and is narrower than people expect. Under KRS 403.725(2), a DVO or EPO petition may be filed in your own county of residence, or in a county you have fled to to escape domestic violence and abuse. It is not filed based on where the respondent lives or where the incident happened. KRS 456.030(2) sets the identical venue rule for an IPO.
As for which court, jurisdiction is concurrent between District Court and Circuit Court for both tracks, under KRS 403.725(6)(a) and KRS 456.030(6)(a). The one difference is that a DVO or EPO petition must be filed in family court if a family court has been established in that county; the IPO statute has no family-court requirement. Each county also operates a 24-hour access protocol, approved by the Kentucky Supreme Court, that can direct a petition to a different court or allow filing at a participating rape crisis center or domestic violence shelter. Most courthouses have self-help centers that can assist you in completing the required forms without a lawyer.
Filing is free. KRS 403.745(2) bars any cost, fee, or bond from being assessed against a petitioner for any filing, hearing, service, or order under KRS 403.715 to 403.785, and KRS 456.070(2) does the same for interpersonal protective orders. The federal Violence Against Women Act independently bars filing and service fees for domestic-violence protective orders. If you need an EPO outside of regular court hours, law enforcement officers can contact an on-call judge to issue one.
When you file, you will complete a petition describing the abuse or threat. A judge reviews it the same day. If the judge finds reasonable grounds to believe domestic violence occurred or is about to occur, an EPO is issued immediately. You do not need a police report to file, and you do not need to have a prior criminal case pending. Domestic-violence advocates at organizations across Kentucky can accompany you to court, help you complete forms, and provide safety planning at no cost.
Temporary vs. final orders: how long they last
Kentucky uses a two-step process. The ex parte EPO is issued the same day you file, without the respondent present, when the judge finds immediate danger. Under KRS 403.730(1)(a) the court sets the evidentiary hearing no more than 14 days out, and under KRS 403.730(2)(a)4. the EPO runs until that hearing concludes unless the court extends or withdraws it.
If the respondent has not been served, the order does not simply lapse. KRS 403.735(2), as amended effective June 27, 2025, provides that the EPO shall remain in place while the court continues the hearing and issues a new summons, each new date falling within 14 days of the scheduled one, and directs the court to repeat that cycle until the respondent is served. Those continuances are capped at six months from the issuance of the EPO; if service still has not been made by then, the order is rescinded without prejudice, and the court must notify the petitioner beforehand that filing a new petition will keep protection in place. KRS 456.050(2) applies the same rule to a temporary IPO.
At the full hearing, both parties appear and can present evidence. If the judge finds domestic violence occurred or may again occur, a DVO or IPO is entered. What you show the judge decides an order that can last up to 3 years, so have a Kentucky family lawyer review your evidence for the full hearing in a free case evaluation (attorney advertising).
| Order Type | Duration |
|---|---|
| Emergency Protective Order (EPO) | Until the hearing, set within 14 days; if the respondent is not served the order stays in place through repeated continuances, capped at 6 months from issuance |
| Domestic Violence Order (DVO) | Up to 3 years; renewable |
| Interpersonal Protective Order (IPO) | Up to 3 years; renewable |
The DVO and IPO are each renewable for additional periods of up to 3 years. To renew, you file a motion before the current order expires and show that continued protection is necessary.
Firearms and a Kentucky protective order
When a qualifying DVO is entered after notice and a hearing, the respondent is prohibited from possessing firearms under the federal firearm ban at 18 U.S.C. 922(g)(8). Kentucky state law itself does not mandate general firearm relinquishment: KRS 403.740 covers DVO relief (no-contact, distance restrictions, residence exclusion, custody, and up to a 3-year duration) and contains no firearm provision. Kentucky's only state-law firearm-adjacent requirement is KRS 237.110, which requires a respondent holding a concealed-carry license to surrender that license to the court or serving officer.
The federal ban applies to any person subject to a qualifying final order that was issued after a hearing with notice to the respondent, restrains that person from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner or a child of an intimate partner, and includes a finding that the person poses a credible threat to the physical safety of that person or child. Possessing a firearm in violation of that federal law is a serious federal felony.
If the respondent retains firearms after a DVO is entered, report this to law enforcement. You do not need to confront the respondent yourself.
What happens if someone violates the order?
Violating a DVO or IPO in Kentucky is a crime under KRS 403.763 (as amended, eff. June 27, 2025). The penalty structure is:
- First and second violations: Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $500.
- Third or subsequent violation within five years, involving physical force or a threat of physical harm: Class D felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison and a fine of $1,000 to $10,000. A third or subsequent violation that does not involve force or a threat of harm remains a Class A misdemeanor. The five-year period runs from the dates the underlying offenses occurred, and counts qualifying violations under KRS 456.180(4)(a), 508.155, and 510.037 in addition to 403.763. The prior and current violations do not need to involve the same protected person.
Police in Kentucky may arrest a respondent without a warrant when they have probable cause to believe a DVO or IPO has been violated. If the respondent violates the order, call 911 immediately and keep any evidence (texts, voicemails, photos) of the violation. Report the violation to the court as well; a violation can also be treated as contempt of court.
This article is general legal information, not legal advice, and it is not a safety plan. Protective-order rules vary by state and change. If you are in danger, call 911. For help with your specific situation, contact your local court's self-help center, a domestic-violence advocate, or a licensed attorney.
Related
For information on Kentucky's self-defense laws, see the Kentucky Self-Defense Laws page. For documenting harassment or threats for use in a protective-order proceeding, see Kentucky Recording Laws. For a full overview of how protective orders work across the country, return to the Restraining Order Laws by State hub.
More Kentucky Laws
- Kentucky Child Custody Laws
- Kentucky Divorce Laws
- Kentucky GPS Tracking Laws
- Kentucky Self-Defense Laws
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a restraining order in Kentucky?
File a petition in your own county of residence, or in a county you have fled to for safety. KRS 403.725(2) does not allow filing based on where the respondent lives or where the abuse happened. District and Circuit Court have concurrent jurisdiction, but the petition must go to family court if your county has one. Ask for an Emergency Protective Order (EPO). A judge will review your petition the same day. If you qualify, the EPO is issued immediately, without the other party present. A full hearing is set no more than 14 days out, at which a Domestic Violence Order (DVO) may be entered. If you were in a dating relationship but did not share a household, or if you are a stalking or sexual-assault victim with no relationship to the respondent, file for an Interpersonal Protective Order (IPO) instead; the same venue rule applies and District and Circuit Court jurisdiction is concurrent.
How long does a restraining order last in Kentucky?
An Emergency Protective Order (EPO) lasts until the full hearing, which is set no more than 14 days out. If the respondent has not been served, KRS 403.735(2) keeps the EPO in place while the court continues the hearing and reissues the summons, up to six months from the date the EPO was issued. A final Domestic Violence Order (DVO) or Interpersonal Protective Order (IPO) lasts up to 3 years and is renewable for additional 3-year terms.
How much does a restraining order cost in Kentucky?
Filing for a DVO, EPO, or IPO is free. KRS 403.745(2) and KRS 456.070(2) bar Kentucky courts from assessing any cost, fee, or bond against a petitioner for any filing, hearing, service, or order, and the federal Violence Against Women Act separately prohibits filing and service fees for domestic-violence protective orders.
Can I get a restraining order without a police report?
Yes. You do not need a police report or a prior criminal case to petition for a protective order in Kentucky. You file a civil petition describing the abuse or threat in your own county of residence or a county you have fled to. District and Circuit Court have concurrent jurisdiction over both DVO and IPO petitions, and a DVO petition goes to family court if your county has established one. The judge decides based on your petition and testimony.
Does a restraining order take away gun rights in Kentucky?
Yes, if a qualifying DVO is issued after a hearing with notice to the respondent, the federal ban at 18 U.S.C. 922(g)(8) prohibits possession of firearms or ammunition for the duration of that order. Kentucky state law itself does not mandate general firearm surrender; KRS 403.740 (the DVO statute) has no firearm provision, though KRS 237.110 requires a respondent who holds a concealed-carry license to surrender that license.
What happens if the abuser violates the order?
Call 911 immediately. Police can arrest the respondent without a warrant on probable cause that a DVO or IPO was violated. A first or second violation is a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail); a third or subsequent violation within five years, if it involves physical force or a threat of physical harm, is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years). Document every violation and report it to the court.
What is the difference between a DVO, an EPO, and an IPO in Kentucky?
An EPO (Emergency Protective Order) is the temporary ex parte order issued on the day you file; it runs until the hearing, which is set within 14 days, and stays in place through repeated continuances (capped at six months) if the respondent has not been served. A DVO (Domestic Violence Order) is the final order entered after a full hearing; it covers family members and household members. An IPO (Interpersonal Protective Order) works the same as a DVO but covers three groups under KRS 456.030(1): people in a dating or intimate relationship who never shared a household, stalking victims, and sexual-assault victims -- the stalking and sexual-assault categories require no relationship to the respondent.
Updates
Corrected where a Kentucky protective-order petition is filed (the petitioner’s own county or a county fled to, with family court required where one exists), updated the emergency protective order continuance rule to the June 27, 2025 amendment that keeps an unserved EPO in place for up to six months, removed an unsupported minimum-age claim for petitioners, and added the Kentucky statutes that make filing free.
Corrected Kentucky's protective-order types (the Interpersonal Protective Order covers stalking and sexual-assault victims with no relationship required, not a separate 'Stalking Protective Order'), its filing venue (IPO jurisdiction is concurrent between District and Circuit Court, not Circuit Court only), and the violation-penalty ladder (the felony tier requires a third or subsequent violation involving force or a threat of harm, not a second violation).
Independently fact-checked against the cited primary sources; governing law re-checked for recent changes
Corrected a mistaken KRS 403.740 firearm-relinquishment claim: that statute has no firearm language at all. The federal ban (18 U.S.C. 922(g)(8)) is the real relinquishment hook; Kentucky's only state-law firearm provision (KRS 237.110) requires surrender of a concealed-carry license, not firearms generally.
Governing law re-checked for recent changes
Governing law re-checked for recent changes
Reviewed and approved by an editor
The Law Behind This Article
This article rests on the statutory provisions below, held in our own legal record and retrieved from the official source. Tap a section to read the operative text.
Kentucky Revised Statutes, Chapter 403: DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE -- CHILD CUSTODY
§ 403.740Domestic violence order -- Restrictions -- Temporary child support -- Expiration and reissuanceIn forcecited in 3 of our articles
(1) Following a hearing ordered under KRS 403.730, if a court finds by a preponderance of the evidence that domestic violence and abuse has occurred and may again occur, the court may issue a domestic violence order: (a) Restraining the adverse party from: 1. Committing further acts of domestic violence and abuse; 2. Any unauthorized contact or communication with the petitioner or other person specified by the court; 3. Approaching the petitioner or other person specified by the court within a distance specified in the order, not to exceed five hundred (500) feet; 4. Going to or within a specified distance of a specifically described residence, school, or place of employment or area where such a place is located; and 5. Disposing of or damaging any of the property of the parties; (b) Authorizing, at the request of the petitioner: 1. Limited contact or communication between the parties that the court finds necessary; or 2. The parties to remain in a common area, which may necessitate them being closer than five hundred (500) feet under limited circumstances with specific parameters set forth by the court.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-09-08 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at apps.legislature.ky.gov
Cited in 107 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Wright v. Wright (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2005, 181 S.W.3d 49)“…t hold a hearing prior to entering the DVO, in violation of KRS 403.740 and 403.745, and made its decision base…”
- Daugherty v. TELEK (Kentucky Supreme Court 2012, 366 S.W.3d 463)“…uance of an emergency protective order (EPO) as required by KRS 403.740(4). Because we conclude that the Kenton…”
- Castle v. Castle (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2019, 567 S.W.3d 908)“…tic violence and abuse has occurred and may again occur[.]" KRS 403.740(1). The preponderance of the evidence…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Kentucky Audio Recording Laws: One-Party Consent Rules and Penalties, Kentucky Child Custody Laws (2026): Joint Custody, Equal Parenting Time, and Your Rights
§ 403.730Immediate review of petition -- Summons to evidentiary hearing -- Ex parte emergency protective orderIn force
(1) (a) The court shall review a petition for an order of protection immediately upon its filing. If the review indicates that domestic violence and abuse exists, the court shall summons the parties to an evidentiary hearing not more than fourteen (14) days in the future. If the review indicates that such a basis does not exist, the court may consider an amended petition or dismiss the petition without prejudice. (b) Service of the summons and hearing order under this subsection shall be made upon the adverse party personally and may be made in the manner and by the persons authorized to serve subpoenas under Rule 45.03 of the Rules of Civil Procedure. A summons may be reissued if service has not been made on the adverse party by the fixed court date and time. (2) (a) If the review under this section also indicates the presence of an immediate and present danger of domestic violence and abuse, the court shall, upon the filing of the petition, issue ex parte an emergency protective order that: 1. Authorizes relief appropriate to the situation utilizing the alternatives set out in KRS 403.740, other than awarding temporary support or counseling; 2.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at apps.legislature.ky.gov
Cited in 42 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Abdur-Rahman v. Peterson (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2011, 338 S.W.3d 823)“…a DVO and, thereby, avoid the requirements of KRS 403.725, KRS 403.730, KRS 403.735, KRS 403.740, KRS 403.745,…”
- Holt v. Holt (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2015, 458 S.W.3d 806)“…f the action in Circuit Court pursuant to the provisions of KRS 403.730 to 403.785. [[Image here]] (7) Dur…”
- Ashley v. Ashley (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2017, 520 S.W.3d 400)“…40(1)- provides that “[f| oil owing a hearing ordered under KRS 403.730, if a court finds by a preponderance of…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 403.763Violation of order of protection constitutes contempt of court and criminal offenseIn force
(1) Violation of the terms or conditions of an order of protection after the person has been served or given notice of the order shall constitute contempt of court and a criminal offense under this section. Once a criminal or contempt proceeding has been initiated, the other shall not be undertaken regardless of the outcome of the original proceeding. (2) (a) Court proceedings for contempt of court for violation of an order of protection shall be held in the county where the order was issued or filed. (b) Court proceedings for a criminal violation of an order of protection shall follow the rules of venue applicable to criminal cases generally. (3) Nothing in this section shall preclude the Commonwealth from prosecuting and convicting the respondent of criminal offenses other than violation of an order of protection. (4) (a) A person is guilty of a violation of an order of protection when he or she intentionally violates the provisions of an order of protection after the person has been served or given notice of the order.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at apps.legislature.ky.gov
Cited in 7 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2025
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Butts v. Commonwealth (Kentucky Supreme Court 1997, 953 S.W.2d 943)“…conduct in question and that he intentionally violated it. KRS 403.763. Thus, the criminal contempt violation…”
- Ware v. Commonwealth (Kentucky Supreme Court 2001, 47 S.W.3d 333)“…e, KRS 508.140, violation of an emergency protective order, KRS 403.763, and being a persistent felony offender…”
- Hedges v. Commonwealth (Kentucky Supreme Court 1996, 937 S.W.2d 703)“…rgency Protection Order which is itself a crime pursuant to KRS 403.763(2). Hedges had been prohibited from com…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 403.720Definitions for KRS 403.715 to 403.785In forcecited in 2 of our articles
As used in KRS 403.715 to 403.785: (1) "Domestic animal" means a dog, cat, or other animal that is domesticated and kept as a household pet, but does not include animals normally raised for agricultural or commercial purposes; (2) "Domestic violence and abuse" means: (a) Physical injury, serious physical injury, stalking, sexual assault, strangulation, assault, or the infliction of fear of imminent physical injury, serious physical injury, sexual assault, strangulation, or assault between family members or members of an unmarried couple; or (b) Any conduct prohibited by KRS 525.125, 525.130, 525.135, or 525.137, or the infliction of fear of such imminent conduct, taken against a domestic animal when used as a method of coercion, control, punishment, intimidation, or revenge directed against a family member or member of an unmarried couple who has a close bond of affection to the domestic animal; (3) "Family member" means a spouse, including a former spouse, a grandparent, a grandchild, a parent, an adult sibling, a child, a stepchild, or any other person living in the same household as a child if the child is the alleged victim; (4) "Foreign protective order" means any…
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at apps.legislature.ky.gov
Cited in 225 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Springer v. Commonwealth (Kentucky Supreme Court 1999, 998 S.W.2d 439)“…in the context of domestic violence and abuse as defined by KRS 403.720, belief that danger is imminent can be…”
- Pennington v. Marcum (Kentucky Supreme Court 2008, 266 S.W.3d 759)“…upport; (d) If domestic violence and abuse, as defined in KRS 403.720, is found by the court to exist, the ex…”
- Caudill v. Caudill (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2010, 318 S.W.3d 112)“…definition of domestic violence and abuse, as expressed in KRS 403.720(1), includes “physical injury, serious…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 403.715Interpretation of KRS 403.715 to 403.785In force
KRS 403.715 to 403.785 shall be interpreted to: (1) Allow victims to obtain effective, short-term protection against further wrongful conduct in order that their lives may be as secure and as uninterrupted as possible; (2) Expand the ability of law enforcement officers to effectively respond to further wrongful conduct so as to prevent future incidents and to provide assistance to the victims; (3) Provide peace officers with the authority to immediately apprehend and charge for violation of an order of protection any person whom the officer has probable cause to believe has violated an order of protection and to provide courts with the authority to conduct contempt of court proceedings for these violations; (4) Provide for the collection of data concerning incidents of domestic violence and abuse in order to develop a comprehensive analysis of the numbers and causes of such incidents; and (5) Supplement and not repeal or supplant any duties, responsibilities, services, or penalties under KRS Chapters 209, 209A, and 620.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at apps.legislature.ky.gov
Cited in 41 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Kessler v. Switzer (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2009, 289 S.W.3d 228)“…obtain protection against further violence and abuse. See KRS 403.715(1). If a DVO has been effective in givi…”
- Crabtree v. Crabtree (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2016, 484 S.W.3d 316)“…lives will be as secure and as uninterrupted as possible.” KRS 403.715(1). 3 Further, the statutes are intend…”
- Manning v. Willett (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2007, 221 S.W.3d 394)“…ntenft] regarding the Domestic Violence and Abuse statutes. KRS 403.715 mandates that the Courts effectuate the…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 403.725Petition for order of protection -- Venue -- Verified contents -- Concurrent jurisdiction -- Protocols for access and supplemental jurisdiction -- ReferralIn force
(1) A petition for an order of protection may be filed by: (a) A victim of domestic violence and abuse; or (b) An adult on behalf of a victim who is a minor otherwise qualifying for relief under this subsection. (2) The petition may be filed in the victim's county of residence or a county where the victim has fled to escape domestic violence and abuse. (3) The petition shall be verified and contain: (a) The name, age, address, occupation, residence, and school or postsecondary institution of the petitioner; (b) The name, age, address, occupation, residence, and school or postsecondary institution of the person or persons who have engaged in the alleged act or acts complained of in the petition; (c) The facts and circumstances which constitute the basis for the petition; (d) The date and place of the marriage of the parties, if applicable; and (e) The names, ages, and addresses of the petitioner's minor children, if applicable.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at apps.legislature.ky.gov
Cited in 37 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Gomez v. Gomez (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2008, 254 S.W.3d 838)“…as concurrent jurisdiction to enter protective orders under KRS 403.725. Use of the term “primary forum” clearl…”
- Holt v. Holt (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2015, 458 S.W.3d 806)“…as concurrent jurisdiction to enter protective orders under KRS 403.725. Use of the term “primary forum” clearl…”
- Hunter v. Mena (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2010, 302 S.W.3d 93)“…ed couple on behalf of a minor family member.” KRS 403.725(3)(empha-sis supplied). Candice was a m…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 403.727Orders of protection involving minors -- ProceduresIn force
(1) Any petition filed under KRS 403.725 on behalf of a minor who is alleged to be a victim of domestic violence and abuse, or in which a minor is named as a respondent or petitioner, shall comply with the requirements in that section and shall: (a) Proceed in accordance with the procedural safeguards under KRS 610.070; and (b) Conform to the confidentiality provisions under KRS 610.340. (2) (a) If the court orders an evidentiary hearing under KRS 403.730(1)(a), a guardian ad litem shall be appointed for any unrepresented minor who is a respondent to the action or a petitioner who is an alleged victim of domestic violence and abuse. (b) The guardian ad litem shall be paid a fee fixed by the court not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500), which shall be paid by the Finance and Administration Cabinet. (3) A victim advocate as defined in KRS 421.570: (a) Shall be permitted to attend the evidentiary hearing to offer advocacy services pursuant to KRS 421.575 to the minor petitioner or the adult who has filed the petition on behalf of the minor; and (b) Shall not be excluded from the evidentiary hearing unless the: 1.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at apps.legislature.ky.gov
Cited in 4 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Daniel Kanabroski v. Dana Kanabroski (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2026)“…ourt orders an evidentiary hearing under KRS 403.730(1)(a). KRS 403.727. The family court complied with this r…”
- Alyssa Baum v. Justin Aldava (Kentucky Supreme Court 2025)“…ceived from a court of a state having a basis for 15 KRS 403.727 (Effective: July 15, 2024) now sets for…”
- Robert Walter Boss v. Anna Michelle Boss (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2026)“…to represent the children in the DVO proceeding. He cites KRS 403.727(2), which provides in pertinent part: “…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 403.735Hearing on petition for order of protection -- Criteria to assess appropriate relief and sanctions -- Continuance of hearing and emergency protective orderIn force
(1) Prior to or at a hearing on a petition for an order of protection: (a) The court may obtain the respondent's Kentucky criminal and protective order history and utilize that information to assess what relief and which sanctions may protect against danger to the petitioner or other person for whom protection is being sought, with the information so obtained being provided to the parties in accordance with the Kentucky Rules of Civil Procedure; and (b) If the petitioner or respondent is a minor, the court shall inquire whether the parties attend school in the same school system to assist the court in imposing conditions in the order that have the least disruption in the administration of education to the parties while providing appropriate protection to the petitioner. (2) (a) If the adverse party is not present at the hearing ordered pursuant to KRS 403.730 and has not been served, a previously issued emergency protective order shall remain in place, and the court shall direct the issuance of a new summons for a hearing set not more than fourteen (14) days in the future.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at apps.legislature.ky.gov
Cited in 20 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Abdur-Rahman v. Peterson (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2011, 338 S.W.3d 823)“…hereby, avoid the requirements of KRS 403.725, KRS 403.730, KRS 403.735, KRS 403.740, KRS 403.745, KRS 403.750…”
- Walker v. Walker (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2017, 520 S.W.3d 390)“…nsp., Inc., 319 S.W.3d 366, 374 (Ky. 2010). However, KRS 403.735 expressly allows courts to look back an…”
- Manning v. Willett (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2007, 221 S.W.3d 394)“…ly if a separate petition is filed by the Respondent. KRS 403.735(2). However, this statute addresses the…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 403.745Duration of emergency protective order and domestic violence order -- Prohibited costs and conditions -- Mutual orders of protection -- Amendment - - ExpungementIn forcecited in 2 of our articles
(1) An emergency protective order and a domestic violence order shall become effective and binding on the respondent when the respondent is given notice of the existence and terms of the order by a peace officer or the court or upon personal service of the order, whichever is earlier. A peace officer or court giving notice of an unserved order shall make all reasonable efforts to arrange for the order's personal service upon the respondent. Once effective, a peace officer or the court may enforce the order's terms and act immediately upon their violation. (2) Costs, fees, or bond shall not be assessed against or required of a petitioner for any filing, hearing, service, or order authorized by or required to implement KRS 403.715 to 403.785. (3) A court shall not require mediation, conciliation, or counseling prior to or as a condition of issuing an order of protection. (4) Mutual orders of protection may be issued only if: (a) Separate petitions have been filed by both parties; and (b) The orders are written with sufficient specificity to allow any peace officer to identify which party has violated the order.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at apps.legislature.ky.gov
Cited in 13 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Daugherty v. TELEK (Kentucky Supreme Court 2012, 366 S.W.3d 463)“…ective order, a date for a full hearing, as provided for in KRS 403.745, shall be fixed not later than the expi…”
- Abdur-Rahman v. Peterson (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2011, 338 S.W.3d 823)“…a DVO, the court must conduct a hearing as provided for in KRS 403.745 and may only enter a DVO if the petitio…”
- Guenther v. Guenther (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2012, 379 S.W.3d 796)“…ntil the full hearing provided for in this subsection or in KRS 403.745, or until withdrawn by the court.” KRS…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Kentucky Revised Statutes, Chapter 456: CIVIL ORDERS OF PROTECTION
§ 456.030Petition for interpersonal protective orderIn force
(1) A petition for an interpersonal protective order may be filed by: (a) A victim of dating violence and abuse; (b) A victim of stalking; (c) A victim of sexual assault; or (d) An adult on behalf of a victim who is a minor otherwise qualifying for relief under this subsection. (2) The petition may be filed in the victim's county of residence or a county where the victim has fled to escape dating violence and abuse, stalking, or sexual assault. (3) The petition shall be verified and contain: (a) The name, age, address, occupation, residence, and school or postsecondary institution of the petitioner; (b) The name, age, address, occupation, residence, and school or postsecondary institution of the person or persons who have engaged in the alleged act or acts complained of in the petition; (c) The facts and circumstances which constitute the basis for the petition; and (d) The names, ages, and addresses of the petitioner's minor children, if applicable.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at apps.legislature.ky.gov
Cited in 15 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Castle v. Castle (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2019, 567 S.W.3d 908)“…ng and sexual assault, and provides for issuance of an IPO. KRS 456.030(1). Distinctions in DVOs and IPOs, as w…”
- Calhoun v. Wood (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2017, 516 S.W.3d 357)“…ing, she was permitted to file a petition for an IPO. See KRS 456.030(l)(b). Further, the circuit court prope…”
- A.W.H. v. P.H. on Behalf of A.T.H., a Minor Child (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2026)“…s secure and as uninterrupted as possible[.]” KRS 456.030(1) provides that a petition for an IPO…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 456.180Violation of order of protectionIn force
(1) Violation of the terms or conditions of an order of protection after the person has been served or given notice of the order shall constitute contempt of court and a criminal offense under this section. Once a criminal or contempt proceeding has been initiated, the other shall not be undertaken regardless of the outcome of the original proceeding. (2) (a) Court proceedings for contempt of court for violation of an order of protection shall be held in the county where the order was issued or filed. (b) Court proceedings for a criminal violation of an order of protection shall follow the rules of venue applicable to criminal cases generally. (3) Nothing in this section shall preclude the Commonwealth from prosecuting and convicting the respondent of criminal offenses other than violation of an order of protection. (4) (a) A person is guilty of a violation of an order of protection when he or she intentionally violates the provisions of an interpersonal protective order after the person has been served or given notice of the order.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at apps.legislature.ky.gov
§ 456.035Interpersonal protective orders involving minors -- ProceduresIn force
(1) Any petition filed under KRS 456.030 on behalf of a minor who is an alleged victim of dating violence and abuse, sexual assault, or stalking, or in which a minor is named as a respondent or petitioner, shall comply with the requirements in that section and shall: (a) Proceed in accordance with the procedural safeguards under KRS 610.070; and (b) Conform to the confidentiality provisions under KRS 610.340. (2) (a) If the court orders an evidentiary hearing under KRS 456.040(1)(a), a guardian ad litem shall be appointed for any unrepresented minor who is a respondent to the action or a petitioner who is an alleged victim of dating violence and abuse, sexual assault, or stalking. (b) The guardian ad litem shall be paid a fee fixed by the court not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500), which shall be paid by the Finance and Administration Cabinet. (3) A victim advocate as defined in KRS 421.570: (a) Shall be permitted to attend the evidentiary hearing to offer advocacy services pursuant to KRS 421.575 to the minor petitioner or the adult who has filed the petition on behalf of the minor; and (b) Shall not be excluded from the evidentiary hearing unless the: 1.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at apps.legislature.ky.gov
§ 456.050Hearing on petition for interpersonal protective orderIn force
(1) Prior to or at a hearing on a petition for an interpersonal protective order: (a) The court may obtain the respondent's Kentucky criminal and protective order history and utilize that information to assess what relief and which sanctions may protect against danger to the petitioner or other person for whom protection is being sought, with the information so obtained being provided to the parties in accordance with the Kentucky Rules of Civil Procedure; and (b) If the petitioner or respondent is a minor, the court shall inquire whether the parties attend school in the same school system to assist the court in imposing conditions in the order that have the least disruption in the administration of education to the parties while providing appropriate protection to the petitioner. (2) (a) If the adverse party is not present at the hearing ordered pursuant to KRS 456.040 and has not been served, a previously issued temporary interpersonal protective order shall remain in place, and the court shall direct the issuance of a new summons for a hearing set not more than fourteen (14) days in the future.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at apps.legislature.ky.gov
Cited in 3 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2022
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Robert D. Jones v. Kelli Lynne Schmidt (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2022)“…mitation is found in both KRS 403.735(2)(a) (for DVOs) and KRS 456.050(2)(a) (for IPOs) which state: “If serv…”
- Tia R. Hill v. Jennifer L. Carnagio (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2022)“…ary IPO may be extended for up to six months. See generally KRS 456.050. But an IPO issued pursuant to KRS 456.…”
- Jane Smith v. John Doe, a Minor (Kentucky Supreme Court 2021)“…sion is particularly significant in light of the fact that KRS 456.050 clearly evinces that the General Assemb…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 456.070When protective order becomes effective and binding on respondent -- Mutual protective orders -- Petition hearing testimony later admissible only for impeachment purposes -- Interpersonal protective order intake centerIn force
(1) A temporary or ordinary interpersonal protective order shall become effective and binding on the respondent when the respondent is given notice of the existence and terms of the order by a peace officer or the court or upon personal service of the order, whichever is earlier. A peace officer or court giving notice of an unserved order shall make all reasonable efforts to arrange for the order's personal service upon the respondent. Once effective, a peace officer or the court may enforce the order's terms and act immediately upon their violation. (2) Costs, fees, or bond shall not be assessed against or required of a petitioner for any filing, hearing, service, or order authorized by or required to implement this chapter. (3) A court shall not require mediation, conciliation, or counseling prior to or as a condition of issuing an interpersonal protective order. (4) Mutual protective orders may be issued only if: (a) Separate petitions have been filed by both parties; and (b) The orders are written with sufficient specificity to allow any peace officer to identify which party has violated the order.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at apps.legislature.ky.gov
Cited in 3 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- A.W.H. v. P.H. on Behalf of A.T.H., a Minor Child (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2026)“…parties for the purposes of impeachment in accordance with KRS 456.070(6).” Smith v. Doe, 627 S.W.3d 903, 916…”
- Nathan Brooks v. C.J., a Minor Child (Court of Appeals of Kentucky 2026)“…We find the same reasoning to be applicable in this case. KRS 456.070(5) does not mandate a hearing on every…”
- Jane Smith v. John Doe, a Minor (Kentucky Supreme Court 2021)“…old that the District Court’s admonishment was error under KRS 456.070(6), which states that “[t]estimony offe…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Kentucky Revised Statutes, Chapter 237: FIREARMS AND DESTRUCTIVE DEVICES
§ 237.110License to carry concealed deadly weapon -- Criteria -- Training -- Paper or electronic application -- Issuance and denial of licenses -- Automated listing of license holders -- Suspension or revocation -- Renewal -- Prohibitions -- Reciprocity -- Reports -- Requirements for training classesIn forcecited in 3 of our articles
(1) The Department of Kentucky State Police is authorized to issue and renew licenses to carry concealed firearms or other deadly weapons, or a combination thereof, to persons qualified as provided in this section. (2) An original or renewal license issued pursuant to this section shall: (a) Be valid throughout the Commonwealth and, except as provided in this section or other specific section of the Kentucky Revised Statutes or federal law, permit the holder of the license to carry firearms, ammunition, or other deadly weapons, or a combination thereof, at any location in the Commonwealth; (b) Unless revoked or suspended as provided by law, be valid for a period of five (5) years from the date of issuance; (c) Authorize the holder of the license to carry a concealed firearm or other deadly weapon, or a combination thereof, on or about his or her person; and (d) Authorize the holder of the license to carry ammunition for a firearm on or about his or her person.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at apps.legislature.ky.gov
Cited in 11 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2024
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Mitchell v. University of Kentucky (Kentucky Supreme Court 2012, 366 S.W.3d 895)“…alid license to carry a concealed deadly weapon pursuant to KRS 237.110 ("concealed carry license"). On April 2…”
- Commonwealth v. Howard (Kentucky Supreme Court 1998, 969 S.W.2d 700)“…concealed deadly weapon, a person must be 21 years of age. KRS 237.110. There are a variety of situations whic…”
- City of Pikeville, Kentucky v. Kentucky Concealed Carry Coalition, Inc. (Kentucky Supreme Court 2023)“…requires relevant signage. Additionally, the City asserted KRS 237.110 and KRS 244.125 authorized the prohibi…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Kentucky Pepper Spray and Stun Gun Laws (2026), Kentucky Knife Laws (2026): Carry, Age Rules, and Exceptions
United States Code Title 18
§ 922Unlawful actsIn forcecited in 72 of our articles
It shall be unlawful— for any person— except a licensed importer, licensed manufacturer, or licensed dealer, to engage in the business of importing, manufacturing, or dealing in firearms, or in the course of such business to ship, transport, or receive any firearm in interstate or foreign commerce; or except a licensed importer or licensed manufacturer, to engage in the business of importing or manufacturing ammunition, or in the course of such business, to ship, transport, or receive any ammunition in interstate or foreign commerce; for any importer, manufacturer, dealer, or collector licensed under the provisions of this chapter to ship or transport in interstate or foreign commerce any firearm to any person other than a licensed importer, licensed manufacturer, licensed dealer, or licensed collector, except that— this paragraph and subsection (b)(3) shall not be held to preclude a licensed importer, licensed manufacturer, licensed dealer, or licensed collector from returning a firearm or replacement firearm of the same kind and type to a person from whom it was received; and this paragraph shall not be held to preclude an individual from mailing a firearm owned in compliance…
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-09-16 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at uscode.house.gov
Cited in 40,024 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
In the courts (editorial summary, independently checked):Section 922(g)(1) bars a felon from possessing a firearm, and the Supreme Court cases in this line turn on sentencing, not on the ban. Taylor v. United States (1990) and Shepard v. United States (2005) held that whether prior convictions enhance a 922(g) sentence under 924(e) is decided from offense elements and limited plea records.
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- United States v. Booker (Supreme Court of the United States 2004, 543 U.S. 220)“…e Johnson with one crime (say, illegal gun possession, see 18 U. S. C. § 922 (g)) and Jackson with another (say, ban…”
- Almendarez-Torres v. United States (Supreme Court of the United States 1998, 523 U.S. 224)“…cidivism an offense element in such circumstances. But cf. 18 U. S. C. § 922 (g)(1) (prior felony conviction an elem…”
- Taylor v. United States (Supreme Court of the United States 1990, 495 U.S. 575)✓Taylor pleaded guilty to felon-in-possession under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) and had two Missouri burglary convictions; the Court held that 'burglary' in the § 924(e) enhancement attached to a § 922(g) conviction means generic burglary judged by the prior statute's elements.
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Can You Become an ICE Agent with a Criminal Record? (2026 Guide), How Long Does a Felony Stay on Your Record? (2026), Supreme Court Limits the Federal Gun Ban on Marijuana Users (Hemani, 2026)
Explore the law
This article also draws on these acts and chapters (opening at their first section): Kentucky Revised Statutes, Chapter 456: CIVIL ORDERS OF PROTECTION § 456.010 (Definitions for chapter) · Kentucky Revised Statutes, Chapter 403: DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE -- CHILD CUSTODY § 403.010 (Court may grant divorce -- Remarriage)
Related law for further reading — not part of this article’s citations.
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Sources and References
- KRS Chapter 403 - Domestic Violence and Abuse (EPO and DVO)(apps.legislature.ky.gov).gov
- KRS Chapter 456 - Interpersonal Protective Orders(apps.legislature.ky.gov).gov
- 18 U.S.C. 922(g)(8) - Federal firearm prohibition for persons under qualifying protective orders(law.cornell.edu)
- KRS 403.763 (Violation penalties, as amended eff. June 27, 2025)(apps.legislature.ky.gov).gov
- KRS 403.725 - Petition for order of protection: venue, verified contents, concurrent jurisdiction, family court requirement(apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- KRS 403.735 - Hearing on petition; continuance of hearing and emergency protective order (eff. June 27, 2025)(apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- KRS 403.730 - Immediate review of petition; summons to evidentiary hearing; ex parte emergency protective order(apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- KRS 403.740 - Domestic violence order: restrictions, temporary child support, expiration and reissuance(apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- KRS 403.745 - Duration of EPO and DVO; prohibited costs, fees, and bond(apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- KRS 456.030 - Petition for interpersonal protective order: who may file, venue, concurrent jurisdiction(apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- KRS 456.050 - Hearing on petition for interpersonal protective order; continuance of temporary IPO (eff. June 27, 2025)(apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- KRS 456.070 - Interpersonal protective orders: effective date, prohibited costs, fees, and bond(apps.legislature.ky.gov)