How to Get Old Divorce Papers

Getting a copy of an old divorce document is a similar process to geting other legal documents of record.

There are many reasons to request old divorce papers. In some cases, if you are divorced, you may have misplaced the original decree and may need to request a copy if re-marrying. In other cases, you may want a copy of an ancestor's divorce decree for genealogical purposes. Although the exact process for requesting a copy of a divorce decree will vary, depending on the county in which it was granted, by sending as much information as possible and including everything that the county clerk might need, you can make the process easier.

Instructions

1. Write a letter requesting the information. Type or use a computer to write the letter.

2. Include the date of the request.

3. Include the full name of the two people involved in the divorce. Type the last names in capital letters. Be sure to include maiden names.

4. Include the date of the divorce in the letter. Some counties may organize divorces by date. If you do not know the exact date, include a range of dates.

5. Include the place, including city, state and county.

6. Include the purpose of the request if you are not requesting the decree for your own divorce.

7. Include your name, address, and phone number. Some counties may require a driver's license number or a copy of your driver's license.

8. Sign the letter.

9. Call the county where the divorce was granted and ask for their address, the proper department for the request, and if there is a fee associated with the request.

10. Write a check for any fees involved in fulfilling your request.

11. Create an SASE by writing your name and address in the recipient's position on the envelope and adding stamps. Because divorce decrees can be heavy, add several stamps or contact the county where the decree was issued for advice.

12. Place the signed letter, check for fees, and SASE in an envelope. Address the envelope to the appropriate department in the county where the decree was issued.

References

• VitalRec: Divorce Decree or Record