KRS 625.100: Termination orders.

(1) If the Circuit Court determines that parental rights are to be terminated involuntarily

in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, it shall enter an order that the

termination of parental rights and the transfer of custody are in the best interest of

the child, and that each petitioner is fully aware of the purpose of the proceedings

and the consequences of the provisions of this chapter. The order shall terminate all

parental rights and obligations of such parent and release the child from all lega l

obligations to such parent and vest care and custody of the child in such person,

agency, or cabinet as the court believes best qualified.

(2) Upon consent by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, the child may be

declared a ward of the state and custody vested in the cabinet or in any child-placing

agency or child -caring facility licensed by the cabinet or in another person, if all

persons with parental rights to the child under the law have had their rights

terminated voluntarily or involuntarily. If the other person is unrelated to the child,

a grant of custody shall be made only with the written approval of the secretary or

his designee.