Divorce Records

Divorce Records

Reasons for Requesting Divorce Records

In the United Sates, the overall divorce rate is around 50% for all first marriages. This means that one out of two marriages is likely to end up in a divorce. For second time marriages, the divorce rate is close to 65%. Although "irreconcilable differences" tends to be the main reason given for divorce, for many couples, financial problems are the main cause. Adultery and abuse are two other main causes of divorce.

The main reason for requesting a divorce record, or decree, is to be able to marry someone else. You need to be legally divorced before you can remarry. However, there are several other reasons for wanting to see a divorce record, such as:

• Genealogical research. If you're trying to trace your family roots, a divorce record provides valuable data.
• Proof of child custody. A divorce record will specify child custody, and if there is any alimony or child support to be paid.
• Proof of financial information. Most divorce records will contain credit card numbers, tax returns, stocks, etc.
• Proof of accusations and/or allegations. If there was an affair, the divorce record might list the people involved. If abuse took place in the marriage, that might be listed as well.

How to Request a Copy of a Divorce Record.

To obtain a copy of a divorce record in the United States, you need to contact the Vital Statistics Office in the county of the state where the divorce occurred. If you're contacting the office by letter, be sure to:

• Keep your letter concise and to the point.
• State the purpose for requesting a copy.
• Type or print all names and addresses.
• Provide specific information, such as full name of each person and the date and place of the divorce.
• Some states will require your driver's license number and the state it's issued from
• Enclose a check for the specified amount.
• Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope.

If you live in the county in which the divorce took place, you can go to your local county court office or Registrar office and request divorce records. Depending on your state, you may be asked to:

• Fill out a form requesting records, including the full names of both people who were divorced.
• Provide proof of identification by showing your driver's license and/or two household bills
• Pay the requested processing fee

You can also ask your divorce lawyer for a copy of the records. The original divorce record is given to you at the time of the divorce, and quite often a copy is kept with the divorce lawyer. Another option is to access a public online database. You can do a search based on name, city, state or zip code.

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