KRS 620.070: Dependency, neglect, or abuse action -- Service of petition and summons --

Contents of summons.

(1) A dependency, neglect, or abuse action may be commenced by the filing of a

petition by any interested person in the juvenile session of the District Court.

(2) After a petition has been filed, the clerk of the court shall issue, and the sheriff or

other person authorized to serve process, except an employee of the Cabinet for

Health and Family Services, shall serve, a copy of the petition and a summons to the

parent or other person exercising custodial control or supervision, unless their

identity or location is unknown, in which case the petition and summons shall be

served as directed by the court, which means may include service on the nearest

known adult relative, service by mail to the last known address, or other service

directed by the court and given in a manner reasonably calculated to give actual

notice. Service may be by warning order if other means are not effective.

(3) The summons shall include an explanation of the importance of the petition and an

explanation of the rights of the parent or other person exercising custodial control in

any subsequent proceedings. The summons shall emphasize the importance of

immediately contacting the court about legal representation and to be advised of the

date, time, and place when the parent or other person exercising custodial control or

supervision is to appear before the court. The summons shall include written

notification that the case may be re viewed by a local citizen foster care review

board and the report of the board review shall become part of the court record.