Finding divorce records in Florida can seem daunting, but with the right information and approach, it's entirely manageable. This guide breaks down the process, answering common questions and providing a step-by-step approach to help you successfully locate the records you need.
Where are Florida Divorce Records Kept?
Florida divorce records are primarily held at the Clerk of Court's office in the county where the divorce was finalized. This is crucial information; you won't find a centralized state database for divorce records. You need to know the county where the divorce proceedings took place.
What Information Do I Need to Find Divorce Records?
To successfully search for divorce records, you'll generally need at least one of the following pieces of information:
- Names of the parties involved: The full names of both the petitioner (the person who filed for divorce) and the respondent (the other party involved) are essential. Variations in spelling can make the search more challenging, so try different spellings if necessary.
- Case number: If you already have the case number, this significantly speeds up the process.
- Date of the divorce: Knowing the approximate date of the divorce helps narrow your search.
How to Access Florida Divorce Records:
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Identify the County: Determine the county in Florida where the divorce was finalized. This is usually the county where at least one party resided at the time of filing.
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Locate the Clerk of Court's Website: Go to the official website of the Clerk of Court for that specific county. Most Clerks of Court have online search portals for case records, though some might require an in-person visit.
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Use the Online Search Portal (if available): Many county Clerk of Court websites offer online search tools allowing you to search by name, case number, or date. Follow the instructions provided on the website. Be aware that there might be a fee to access the records.
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Visit the Clerk of Court's Office (if necessary): If the county doesn't offer online access or if your search yields no results online, you'll need to visit the Clerk of Court's office in person. They can assist you with your search. Be prepared to provide identifying information and possibly pay a fee.
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Requesting Records: Once you locate the case file, you can request copies of the relevant documents. These often include the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, the Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage, and any related orders. Fees may apply.
Are Florida Divorce Records Public?
Generally, Florida divorce records are considered public records, meaning they are accessible to the public. However, some sensitive information, such as social security numbers, might be redacted.
What if I Can't Find the Records Online?
If your online searches are unsuccessful, try the following:
- Check for name variations: Experiment with different spellings of the names involved.
- Refine your search criteria: Use more precise dates if you have them.
- Contact the Clerk of Court's office directly: They can offer guidance and assistance.
- Consider using a professional record search service: These services specialize in locating records and can handle complex searches.
What are the Fees Associated with Accessing Divorce Records in Florida?
Fees vary by county. Expect to pay a fee for copying documents and potentially for online access. Check the specific county's Clerk of Court website for current fee schedules.
This comprehensive guide should equip you with the knowledge and steps necessary to successfully search for divorce records in Florida. Remember, patience and accuracy in your search are key to a successful outcome. Always check the individual county's Clerk of Court website for the most up-to-date information and procedures.
