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Kentucky law

Domestic Violence Laws in Kentucky.

Kentucky domestic-violence protection is governed primarily by KRS §§ 403.715–403.785, which authorize Domestic Violence Orders (DVOs) from the Family Court, and by the Interpersonal Protective Order statute at KRS ch. 456 for dating-violence and other non-domestic abuse. Kentucky criminal law provides parallel domestic-violence offenses, and firearm-possession restrictions follow many protective orders.

Last verified: 2026-04-17

State law

Key Kentucky Statutes

Kentucky Domestic Violence Orders (DVOs)KRS §§ 403.715 et seq.

Kentucky law authorizes emergency and long-term Domestic Violence Orders for victims of domestic abuse, with stay-away and related protective provisions.

Kentucky Interpersonal Protective OrdersKRS ch. 456

Kentucky law also provides Interpersonal Protective Orders for victims of dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault outside domestic relationships.

State law

Official Sources

Not Legal Advice

This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Kentucky.

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