Is a divorce filing public record?
Is a divorce filing public record?
Generally, court proceedings are public matters. In the vast majority of jurisdictions, this includes divorce proceedings. This means that unless the court agrees to file divorce records under seal, filings in divorce proceedings become matters of public record.
Can i find divorce records online for free?
Luckily, most divorce records are totally free because they're public information. However, some states, including California, Oregon, and South Dakota, may charge a small fee for access. That said, there are a multitude of free directories for public records.
Why can’t i find divorce records?
Visit the Vital Statistics office for the county where the divorce took place. If you don't know the county, you can contact the state's Vital Records Office. Reach out to them online, over the phone, or in person. These offices sometimes go by different names.
Why do I need a certified copy of my divorce decree?
A certified copy of a Divorce Certificate is issued with a raised seal. It will also show the signature of the proper authority and will be printed on security paper. A certified copy may be required to change your last name or remarry.
Can I view divorce records online for free?
If you can visit the court that granted the divorce, you may be able to view the entire divorce record for free, although you must pay for photocopies or certified copies of the divorce certificate. If you cannot visit the courthouse, you may be able to submit a records request online.
How do I prove I’m divorced?
If you filed for divorce in the United States, you generally can obtain a divorce decree from the court that issued the document. Alternatively, you can request an official copy from the office of vital records in the state where your divorce was finalized.
