Learn how to efficiently access divorce records through court offices, vital records departments, and online portals. This guide covers essential steps to obtain required documents for legal or personal purposes, ensuring ease and compliance with legal protocols.

Divorce records serve as vital public documents used for legal matters like name changes, custody disputes, or spousal support claims. These records are generally available to the public free of charge. Here are the main ways to obtain them:

Court Clerk Offices
Civil courts handling divorce cases keep copies of these records, both digital and paper, usually for a period of seven to ten years. If you’re involved in the case, you can request your records in person or via mail by contacting the court clerk’s office.

For non-involved individuals, you'll need details such as the parties' names, date and place of divorce, case number, and maiden names. Sometimes, a notarized request or affidavit from a party involved may be required.

Vital Records Authorities
Divorce records may also be obtained through the county Vital Records Office, Registrar, or Office of Vital Statistics in the county where the divorce was finalized.

Personal copies, including certified or non-certified divorce decrees, can be secured by providing valid identification. In cases involving third parties, a notarized statement or affidavit from the involved parties might be necessary.

Online Resources
Many jurisdictions offer online platforms to access divorce records. Court websites often host these documents or link to them, with some requiring requests via mail or in person. State Vital Records departments frequently maintain searchable digital databases, making it easier to access divorce information from home.