Are Divorce Records Public in the US?
Published January 1, 2024
Let’s cut to the case: are divorce records public? Yes.
Generally, divorce documents are a component of the public record. It is unless there are specific reasons to seal them. If you’ve undergone one, your divorce documents and court case evidence generally become publicly accessible.
Are Divorce Records Public?
Generally, divorce records are acknowledged as part of the public record. Yet, some states have restrictions on access. For example, in New York, divorce records are not public inspection. In Tennessee, they are generally treated with general information. Everyone can access them.
What Are Divorce Records?
Divorce records are legal documents that render the official proof of the dissolution of a marriage. They contain significant data about the divorce case. They include the parties’ names, addresses and occupations, and grounds of divorce. They also have the date of it and information about any children.
The court clerk usually manages these records. It is placed at the county or city level where the divorce was granted.
Which Divorce Documents Are Part of the Public Record?
Many documents become a part of the public record following a divorce. Applying to view these documents is usually straightforward. Yet, it may take a bit of time and money.
Knowing which one suits your purposes is critical if you’re going through the trouble of citing these documents.
1. Divorce certificate
A divorce certificate is a legal account that contains:
- The names of the individuals involved in the divorce agreement
- Place they got divorced
- The date and time the divorce became official
Typically, only the individuals involved in the divorce can request this record. Yet, some exceptions may apply.
This legal document is an authentication of a couple’s divorce. It is handy when someone needs quick confirmation of their name and relationship status. For instance, a divorcee may require this account to alter their name or get married to someone else.
2. Divorce decree
A divorce decree, also called a judgment, is another essential official document. The court issues it to establish the particulars of a couple’s legal divorce. Depending on your case, the court may resolve these terms. In other cases, you and your ex-spouse may settle them yourself.
The decree can address:
- Spousal supports payments or alimony
- Parental decision-making rights
- Child support payments
- Property ownership
- Debt distribution
- Visitation rights
The details in these documents are critical. It maintains a certain quality of life for each partner and children in their relationship. As such, acquiring a copy of your divorce decree for reference is a good idea. You can also use them to hold an ex-partner accountable. It is supposed that if they do not uphold the terms of the divorce.
3. Divorce record
A divorce record contains all the data of a certificate and a decree. It also encompasses all files and documents generated during the divorce proceedings.
This file’s information, evidence, and judgments may be useful in future court proceedings.
How to Look Up Marriage Records
1. Identify the location
Determine the state or country where the marriage occurred.
2. Visit the relevant government website.
Many counties and states have online portals. They serve to search for divorce records.
3. Use an online service.
Some third-party websites also offer services to secure marriage records. These sites may also involve fees. Moreover, the information available may vary.
4. Contact the local county clerk’s office.
If online search is unavailable or you prefer not to use it, you can contact the county clerk’s office where the marriage license was issued. They can assist you through the process of securing the record.
5. Submit the necessary information.
You’ll need to render the full names of both spouses at the time of their marriage. It also helps to know the date or year of the union, if possible.
6. Pay any necessary fees.
There may be a small fee linked to acquiring these records. They can, again, vary by location.
How Can I Get a Copy of My Divorce Document?
Often, the only things impeding people from gaining certain court documents are time, cost, and accessibility. Yet, it’s easier and cheaper than you might think.
If you need a certificate to validate that you got divorced, you can order one via your local Vital Statistics Office. Many offices permit online applications. The fees typically range between $30 and $10.
For a divorce decree or record, you must apply to the courts where the divorce occurred. Most courts let you search for a case online. Otherwise, you can apply by mail or in person. You must gather the following data to identify the proper court case.
- The case number, citation number, or cross-reference number
- The name of the court where the divorce proceedings occur
Which Divorce Documents Are Not Public Records?
A court may decide to seal case documents. It is in cases where the data within them could cause harm in the public sphere.
For one, a judge might seal cases that have proprietary business information. They may also do so if there are sensitive issues regarding children or domestic violence.
How Can I Hide the Fact That I’m Divorced?
A court won’t seal any documents without a requirement. Additionally, even if you request it, they could say no. It is assuming they do not deem it necessary.
The court may oblige if you have a valid reason why court documents could harm you or others.
You can also ask them to redact portions of your divorce papers. It may have a higher chance of success.
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce Records
1. Can someone find out if you are divorced?
Someone can confirm if you are divorced or not. Divorce records are generally public data in the United States.
2. How do you find out if a man is divorced?
The most straightforward method is asking the person directly. You can try an online search if this doesn’t apply to you. Search online for the person’s name and the word “divorce.” It may direct you to public records or news articles that cover the divorce.
3. Are NY divorce records public?
In New York, divorce records are not public. It is because of the sensitive nature of many divorce proceedings. The New York State Department of Health is behind it. The agency has held all the certifications of dissolution for all divorces and civil annulments since 1963.
4. Can I date a divorced man?
You can date a divorced man. Everyone has a past. Divorce doesn’t necessarily define the person. It also does not predict their future behavior in relationships.
We hope this guide clears up your confusion regarding divorce records being held publicly. Because they are. Still, access to divorce documents differs by state.
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About The Author
I am Tracy Gorman, a seasoned writer with a passion for exploring. What truly excites me is the ability to translate ideas into meaningful articles that assist others.