From finding the answers to some of your ancestry questions to updating some important documents, there are so many reasons for finding divorce records. Most divorce records are public — but they're not always free. Thankfully, we've got all the tips and tricks you'll need to hunt down that divorce document you need.
Divorce Records vs. Divorce Certificates: An Important Distinction
Before beginning a search, it is important to note the legal difference between a divorce record and a divorce certificate, to ensure you get what you're expecting. When most people search for a divorce record, they want a copy of the divorce certificate, which states the named individuals are divorced as of the date written on the document. When doing a public records search, you will get a divorce certificate.
However, the divorce record is the actual case file and contains every pleading, motion, and piece of evidence submitted in the case. Online public records finders don't provide you with a copy of the divorce record. You must request a copy of the file from the courthouse where the divorce was finalized.
4 Places to Search for Divorce Records Online
There are a number of websites you can use to search for divorce records. These sites do all the legwork for you, so you don't have to contact state agencies directly. Searches are generally free, but you cannot view the results without paying a fee. The more information you have, the more accurate the search results.
Court Records Finder
You can search for divorce records on Court Records Finder with the individual's first and last name, as well as the state where they live (or lived). The site will cover a nationwide search if you don't know the state. The website then provides a list of names that match, or are similar to, the name you searched for. It also provides a list of cities the individual has lived in, and possible relatives, which can help narrow down the list, if the search provides numerous potential matches. If you want the full report, you'll have to purchase one.
Government Registry
Government Registry searches billions of records, from marriage and death certificates to criminal arrest records. To search for a divorce record, you only need to provide the individual's first and last name — their approximate age, city, and state are optional (the default search is nationwide), though the more information you have, the better the results. Then, the site will provide you with a list of possible matches. Once you identify the best match, you may purchase the full report.
Related: How to Get a Death Certificate: Three Request Methods
Search Quarry
Similar to Court Records Finder, Search Quarry allows you to search for a divorce record using the individual's first and last name and state of residence. Search Quarry then provides you with a list of possible matches containing the individual's name, age, the cities they lived in, and their possible relatives. Unlike the other sites, Search Quarry will allow you to view the entire report free of charge during a free, five-day trial membership. If you don't cancel before the trial period ends, the fee is $35.40 per month.
VitalChek
VitalChek is an official, government-authorized provider of vital records that can provide you with certified copies of divorce certificates from 24 states. However, you cannot conduct a search based on partial information, like some of the other search sites. VitalChek is easy to use — input an individual's first and last name, the city and state where the divorce was finalized, the divorce date, and the reason for your request. Then, VitalCheck will process and submit your request to the appropriate government agency. Fees (not including shipping costs and a processing fee) range from $15.50 - $78.50.
How to Request Copies From the Court House Directly
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. Many courthouses allow users to search online for divorce records. Some charge a fee to search; for others, searches are free, and you pay only for copies of documents (plus any mailing costs).
Some divorce records are sealed by the court and can't be opened without having a motion to unseal them granted. These records will be much more difficult (and in some cases, impossible) to obtain.
How to Submit a Vital Records Request
You can request a copy of the divorce certificate through the state's vital records department. You must submit an application with the requested information (which may vary among states) and pay the required fee. The Centers for Disease Control and Protection maintains a contact list for the vital records department in every U.S. state and territory.
Only Submit a Search When You Have the Requisite Information
Many public records sites can search for records with as little as the individual's first and last name. However, better information leads to more accurate results, and more accurate results save you from sifting through potentially thousands of possible matches and wasting money purchasing records that turn out to be the wrong individual.
Refine your search by having as much information on hand as possible, such as:
- The first and last names of both spouses
- The city and state where the divorce was filed
- The current or previous address of the person you're looking for
- The date the divorce was finalized
Divorce Records Can Be Easy to Find
Locating official documents may seem like a daunting task, but many organizations want to help make navigating the process easier for you. And while some of your searches for divorce records may prove more involved than others, there's a slim chance you'll come up to a dead end.
