ACLU of Kentucky

STEP 1– Call an abortion clinic and a lawyer.

To start the process, you need to make a call to an abortion clinic and explain that you need help getting a court order for an abortion.  A counselor at the clinic will set up an appointment for you to come in and have the abortion procedure explained.  The counselor also will either set up an appointment for you to see a lawyer or help you get in touch with a lawyer who understands the process of getting a court order for an abortion.

Clinics in Kentucky

EMW Women's Clinic - 859-278-0331
161 Burt Rd., Lexington, KY 40503

EMW Women's Surgical Center - 502-589-2124
138 W Market St., Louisville, KY 40202

STEP 2– Meet with your lawyer.

You will arrange a time, possibly the same day you go to the clinic, to meet with a lawyer who will explain the court process and tell you what to expect during your meeting with the judge.  Your lawyer will also help you fill out the forms you need for the court, including one that says you cannot afford to pay the court costs or the lawyer’s fee.  These forms will be confidential.  The lawyer will take the forms to the courthouse and set up a time to meet with a judge.

STEP 3– Meet with the judge.

You and your lawyer will meet with the judge together.  In most cases, your lawyer will ask you questions in front of the judge, so that the judge can decide if you are “mature” enough to make the decision to have an abortion.  The judge will want to know if you understand the abortion procedure and if you have had time to think through your options.  Other questions might include things like “Where do you go to school?” and “What are your plans for the future?” You will also have to tell the judge why you cannot tell a parent about the pregnancy.  Your lawyer will help you think through your answers to the questions.

STEP 4-The judge decides.

If the judge approves your request, you will receive a written order that says you have court approval to make your own decision about whether to have an abortion.  If the judge does not approve your request, you and your lawyer can appeal the decision.

HOW LONG WILL THIS TAKE?

Generally, you can go to the clinic, meet with your lawyer, and see the judge in one or two days.  If you can do it in one day, it will likely take most of the day and there will be times when you will have to wait between appointments.  You probably will not be able to have the abortion until the day after the judge gives you a decision.  Your lawyer will help you figure out the time table.