How to Research Divorce Records
Divorce decrees can be accessed online, through vital records offices, or at the courthouse. Free database searches are useful for ancestry information or basic statistics. To request an official certified copy of a divorce decree, however, requestors need to provide proof of identification and a small fee.
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Instructions
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Locate as much information as possible about the couple involved in the marriage. You might need such information as first and last names, wedding location or wedding date.
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Search for information using a free research database website such as Archives or Divorce Records. These databases contain information about the dissolution agreement, financial information and court proceedings. Some may even include names and information about affairs that led to the divorce.
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Go to the National Vital Statistics website and enter the required information to request a copy of the divorce certificate. You may also send a letter through the mail. Include all necessary information or your request may not be fulfilled.
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Visit the courthouse in the county where the marriage occurred for in-person service. Officials may request identification to fulfill your request. Depending on the state, you may need to fill out necessary paperwork.
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Tips & Warnings
Divorce records are filed in the courthouse of the area where the wedding took place. For faster service, visit the specific courthouse.
If you request information through the mail, include a self-addressed stamped envelope and all necessary information about the couple in question. You may also be required to provide your relationship to the couple and the reason you are requesting the record.
Some websites require online registration before providing the requested divorce information.
Requesting a certified copy of a divorce decree will require proof of identity and a nominal fee.
Only request information you are legally allowed to access. Some websites ask you to agree to this before performing a search on their site.
