Free Divorce Records

The clerk of each court maintains the official public record, including access to free divorce records from the court. Records may be inspected during normal business hours. Additionally, copies of official records are available for a nominal fee. Recent changes to the law, including both federal laws and through most state legislatures, require redaction of sensitive information pertaining to minors. Information which may not be published often includes the names, ages and addresses of children. However, this information is made available to all parties with a legitimate interest in litigation by court order.

Note when filing:

The availability of the dissolution of marriage, property distributions, and child support requirements are unique to each state because of variations in divorce decisions rendered by courts. As new cases are decided, new precedents establish variations in application. For this reason, everyone considering filing should consult local legal counsel. Best results are obtained through careful planning with legal counsel before committing to any course of action. Also be aware that filing creates a permanent public record. These records are rarely withdrawn, expunged or deleted absent extraordinary circumstances. Public records are available to anyone who inquires for a nominal fee.

A primary consideration driving the development of new laws revolves around children of the marriage. Children are typically not represented by attorneys in proceedings, yet are considered, as a matter of judicial and public policy, to have an overriding interest in the outcome. The needs of children financially, socially, parentally and educationally are considered the joint responsibility of parents. Courts are charged with responsibility to protect all interests of children in family court despite agreed requests of parents which may be inconsistent.