Legal Question in Family Law in Kentucky

Re: emancipation

A child is "emancipated" under Kentucky law when he turns 18, or is legally married. Children under 18 can legally marry with parental permission, if aged at least 16. Otherwise, children can be married with court approval.

In Kentucky, 17-year olds can become emancipated if they join the military services with parental permission.

For child support purposes, Kentucky requires support until the child turns 18, or graduates from high school, whichever is later (but support terminates at 19th birthday, if not graduated).

While emancipation is automatic, by operation of law, the payer of child support must usually file a motion in court to terminate a wage assignment.

In situations where a child is physically or mentally incapable of self-support, a court may order support for the remainder of the child's life.