Last updated April 2026.
Divorce Records: What You Need to Know
Divorce records are official documents created and maintained by county government agencies that document the dissolution of a marriage within that county. Each U.S. county has a county clerk responsible for maintaining and safeguarding vital records, including births, marriages, deaths, and divorces that occur within that county’s jurisdiction. When a couple’s divorce is finalized by the court, an official divorce record is created, filed with the county clerk, and becomes part of the public vital records system.
What Information Is in Divorce Records?
Divorce records typically contain important information about the divorced parties and the divorce proceedings, including:
- Full names of both parties
- Ages or dates of birth of both spouses
- Dates of marriage and divorce finalization
- County and state where the divorce was filed
- Case number and court information
- Names and ages of any minor children
- Grounds for the divorce (if applicable in that state)
- Signature of the judge or court official
Accessing Divorce Records: Public vs. Sealed Records
In nearly every state, divorce records are considered public records, meaning anyone can request and access them through the county clerk’s office. This transparency serves important purposes, including genealogical research, background checks, and legal proceedings. However, there are important exceptions and restrictions.
Sealed Records: Some states allow divorce records to be sealed or restricted from public access in certain circumstances. Records may be sealed to protect victims of domestic violence, hide sensitive financial information, safeguard children’s information, or upon mutual agreement of both parties. When records are sealed, the general public cannot access them, though they remain available to the parties involved and may be accessible to courts with proper authorization.
State-Specific Restrictions: New York state has unique restrictions on divorce records, sealing them for 100 years after the divorce is finalized. This means divorce records in New York are not publicly available, making them significantly more difficult to access than in other states.
How to Obtain Divorce Records
To obtain a copy of divorce records, you typically need to contact the county clerk’s office in the county where the divorce was filed. The process usually involves:
- Identifying the correct county where the divorce was finalized
- Contacting the county clerk’s vital records office in person, by mail, phone, or online
- Providing the names of both parties and approximate year of divorce
- Paying the required copying and processing fees
- Receiving an official copy of the divorce record
Many county clerk offices now offer online search capabilities and ordering systems, making it easier to locate and request divorce records without traveling to the courthouse in person.
Uses for Divorce Records
Divorce records serve many important purposes and may be needed for:
- Genealogical and family history research
- Background checks and due diligence
- Legal proceedings involving inheritance, custody, or support modification
- Remarriage documentation
- Estate and probate proceedings
- Financial and insurance matters
- Name change verification
Privacy Considerations
While divorce records are generally public, individuals concerned about privacy should understand their options. Some states offer ways to seal records, request confidential treatment, or restrict access to sensitive information. If you’re concerned about the public availability of your divorce records, consult with a family law attorney about what protections may be available in your state.
Divorce Records vs. Divorce Decrees and Certificates
It’s important to understand the difference between these related documents. Divorce records are the official filings maintained by the county clerk. A divorce decree is the final court order outlining all terms of the divorce, including custody, support, and property division. A divorce certificate is a simplified document certifying that a divorce occurred.
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce Records
Are divorce records public in all states?
No. While divorce records are public in most states, some states restrict access or seal records in certain circumstances. New York, for example, seals divorce records for 100 years. Some states allow records to be sealed for domestic violence protection or by mutual agreement.
How much do divorce records cost?
Costs vary by county but typically range from $5 to $25 per copy, plus potential processing or mailing fees. Some counties offer discounts for multiple copies.
How long does it take to receive divorce records?
Processing times vary. In-person requests may be fulfilled immediately, while mail requests typically take 1-2 weeks. Online ordering systems may offer expedited processing options.
Can I get someone else’s divorce records?
Yes, in most states anyone can access public divorce records. However, if records are sealed or restricted, only authorized parties may obtain them.
What if I need records from a different state?
Contact the county clerk in the county where the divorce was filed in that state. You can typically find contact information online by searching for the county clerk’s office.