A divorce decree is official documentation from the court that formally ends a marriage. The decree contains information about your case including spousal support, child support, custody, visitation, property division, and other information about the specifics of your divorce. Here’s how to obtain a copy of a divorce decree.
Where can I get a copy of a divorce decree?
If you filed for divorce in the U.S, you can get a copy of your divorce decree at the county clerk’s office or the court where the divorce was issued. You can also get an official copy from the vital records office in the state that finalized your divorce. There is no time limit for how long after the court grants your divorce decree that you can ask for a copy of the divorce decree. Only the people involved in the divorce and the lawyers can get a copy of the divorce decree.
How do I get a copy of a divorce decree?
Contacting the County Superior Court that granted your divorce is the quickest and easiest way to receive a copy of your divorce decree. The method for obtaining a certified copy of your divorce decree varies slightly by county. Most offices, however, will ask you to file a written request, either in person or by mail. The office requires the names of both parties, the year of the divorce, and the court case number. If you don’t know your case number, you can look for it on the court’s website. If you arrive in person, court employees may assist you in locating the case number.
Related: Divorce Decree vs. Divorce Certificate: The Difference
Why do I need a copy of a divorce decree?
The following reasons you may need a copy of your divorce decree include:
- Change your name back to your maiden name,
- Re-marry,
- Change the names on previously shared assets with your former spouse, and/or
- Ex violating the divorce decree
Related: Enforcing California Divorce Decrees
FAQs About Obtaining a Copy of a Divorce Decree
How much does it cost to receive a copy of a divorce decree?
You may have to pay a fee to receive a copy of the divorce decree. The cost of a certified copy of a divorce decree varies. If you want copies of other papers from your divorce file, you’ll have to pay more. You must have adequate means to cover all fees if you mail your request to the court, and you must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for the court to return the document to you.
Do I need a lawyer to get a copy of a divorce decree?
No, you do not need a lawyer to receive a copy of your divorce decree. Divorce decrees are accessible to parties who are divorcing and their representation. Receiving a copy of your divorce decree is only a matter of contacting or going to your county clerk’s office and asking for the decree. If the county clerk’s office refuses to give you the divorce decree, asking your lawyer for help may be beneficial because they can cut through red tape.
What do I need to show in order to receive a copy of my divorce decree?
If you mail a request or go in person to the state’s records department, you should include:
- Names of each spouse
- Date of your request
- The date of the divorce
- The location (court) of divorce
- The type of final decree
- The purpose for why you need it
- Your name and address
- Your driver’s license information (and a copy)
- The state’s required request form, and
- Your signature.
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If you or a loved one would like to learn more about how to obtain a copy of a divorce decree, get your free consultation with one of our divorce attorneys today!