Divorce records are an important part of your legal history.

Whether you’re applying for a marriage license, updating government documents, or needing proof of your divorce for personal reasons, these records confirm that your marriage has legally ended.

If you’ve lost your paperwork or never kept a copy, don’t panic. Divorce records are public documents, and there are several ways to obtain them.

What Are Divorce Records?

Divorce records are the official documents that confirm a marriage has been legally dissolved. They include:

• Divorce certificate – A short document that verifies the divorce took place, often used for legal proof.
  
  
  

• Divorce decree – A detailed court order outlining property division, custody, and support arrangements.

Both are considered divorce records but serve different purposes.

How To Find Divorce Records: Four Main Options

1. Through Court Websites

The court that finalized your divorce keeps official records. Many county or state court websites allow you to request copies online.

Steps to request online:

1. Locate the website of the court that finalized your divorce.

2. Fill out the request form with details like case number, full names, and ID information.

3. Submit and wait for processing. Copies are usually mailed to you.

Keep in mind:

• Recent divorces may not yet appear in the system.

• Some records may require in-person pickup instead of online delivery.

2. Visiting the Clerk of Court in Person

If online access isn’t available, visiting the courthouse where your divorce was finalized may be the fastest option.

Steps to request in person:

1. Go to the county clerk’s office where your divorce was granted.

2. Bring identification and your case details.

3. Request certified copies. Processing time may vary.

This method is especially useful if you’re unsure about your case number or if the records aren’t online yet.

3. The Office of Vital Statistics

Most states allow you to request divorce certificates through the state’s vital records office or health department.

However, these offices generally do not keep divorce decrees with full case details. For decrees, you’ll still need to contact the court directly.

4. Private Companies

While some private services retrieve documents for you, Divorce.com simplifies the process from the start, ensuring your documents are accurate, stored, and easy to access when needed.

Pros: Saves time, convenient if you can’t travel.
Cons: Risk of scams. Always use verified providers and check for secure (.gov or official) websites.

Divorce Records vs. Divorce Certificates and Decrees

• Divorce Certificate – Proof that the divorce occurred (basic info like names, date, location).
  
  
  

• Divorce Decree – The full court order outlining terms of the divorce (custody, assets, support).
  
  
  

Both are legally important, but only the decree contains enforceable details.

The Bottomline

Divorce records are accessible through courts, state agencies, or private services.

The right method depends on whether you need a simple certificate or a full decree with case details.

If you’re currently going through divorce, Divorce.com can guide you through the process and ensure your paperwork is properly filed and organized.

Divorce Records FAQs

Are divorce records public?

Yes, in most states divorce records are public documents, though sensitive details may be sealed.

Which is better: a divorce decree or a divorce certificate?

Each document serves a different purpose. A decree includes detailed terms, while a certificate provides proof of the divorce date and location

Can I get divorce records online?

Many courts and state agencies allow online requests, but availability varies by location.

How long does it take to receive divorce records?

It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on whether you order online, by mail, or in person.

Do I need my case number to request records?

Not always. Some agencies can search by name and date of divorce, but having your case number makes the process faster.