Tuesday, 15 April 2014

California Free Public Divorce Records

By Ben Kingsley


It is easy for one to obtain a record of their divorce in California. Like other US states, the divorce record is considered as public record and as such the information is available for anybody. For those interested in obtaining a copy of the divorce decree, it is important to know whether they are eligible for an authorized copy or limited to informational copies of the divorce decree.

An authorized copy is one that is certified and can be used as supporting document for spousal or child support and other related things. People who are eligible for an authorized copy are those parties named in the decree, their parents/relatives, domestic partner, an attorney acting in behalf of the registrant, a licensed adoption agency, law enforcement agency and a person who requires such record in the performance of his job. An informational copy contains the same information that an authorized copy has. However, a statement is printed on the copy stating that the report is for informational purpose only and is not a valid document. An authorized copy holds more power than an informational copy.

For those who want to obtain divorce records, they can visit the State's Vital Records or CDPH vital records division. The Office cannot issue a certified copy of the divorce; however, they can issue a Certificate of Record which contains information such as the parties named in the divorce proceeding, case number and the county where the record is filed. The certificate does not include any information pertaining to the result of the proceeding. Records available include divorces from 1962 up until June 1984.

To request for a Certificate of Record, download the pamphlet available from the CDPH site. Follow the instruction guide and complete the requirements needed. Fees vary and are non-refundable. The Office will issue a certificate of No Public Records if there are no records found. Payments for the copy should be included with the request. Payments can be made via money order or checks that are drawn from a US bank. Money orders issued by the USPS are also accepted. Processing time can exceed six months depending on the request volume.

For those who need a certified copy of the divorce decree, they can go to the California Superior court or the County's superior court to request for the record. It is important to check the fee schedule as each county has different fees. Divorce records search in Alameda County for example is available from the Superior Court of Alameda. Each record search costs about $15 for searches conducted longer than 15 minutes. Divorce records cost about $15 and some administrative or handling charges may apply. For those who are on a budget, they can visit the records division and do the search themselves free. The Court does not accept any phone request though they accept walk in and mail request. For those who want to get their certified copies without having to wait, they can also avail of public search sites that provide the information free or for a fee. One can easily get hold of the information they want without having to go to the county superior court to search for the records.




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