How to Look Up Free Divorce Records

According to privacyrights.org, divorce records are public documents and can be found in the Superior Court clerk's office in the county where your divorce was granted. Alex Grim of Attorney Marketing blog writes that divorce files are comprehensively documented, filed and uploaded from the count office to the designated state department office in the data and statistic department.

Instructions

1. Look up the case file. In most counties, you'll be able to do this on your home computer. Access the Superior Court website for the county where your divorce was granted. Search under the name of the parties involved. Find the specific case and write down the number.

2. Go to the Superior Court clerk's office to view the case file. Bring the court case number with you so it is easier for the clerk to obtain the file.

3. Make note of any documents you wish to have copied. Decide whether you need to have the copies certified.

4. Once you have determined which documents you want copied, return the file and inform the clerk. Be prepared to pay for any copies. Get a receipt for your records.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to have the correct spelling of the parties involved. That will make searching for the case number easier.

• According to Attorney Marketing blog, divorce records are free but there may be a nominal search fee levied.

• Certified copies cost more than regular copies.

• Certified copies can only be obtained at the Superior Court clerk's office in the county where the divorce was granted.

References

• Public and Government Records
• "Public California Divorce Records Look-Up"; Attorney Marketing Blog; Grim, Alex; Oct. 28, 2009
• Superior Court, County of San Francisco

Resources

• Obtaining Certified Copies of Marriage and Divorce Records