Divorce Records in California
Whether divorce records are public in California and how to get a copy of a divorce decree or certificate.
Short answer: Copies of the actual divorce decree can be obtained only from the Superior Court in the county where the divorce took place. Documents in court files are public records. California Department of Public Health, Obtaining Copies of Divorce Records; California Child Support Services FAQ
| Divorce records | Copies of the actual divorce decree can be obtained only from the Superior Court in the county where the divorce took place. Documents in court files are public records. The California Department of Public Health, Vital Records, holds divorce records only for 1962 through June 1984, and those are just the face sheet of the case; it can issue only a Certificate of Record (names of the parties, filing date, county and case number) for $18 per copy, using form VS 113B mailed with a check or money order. |
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Where to get help in California
More California divorce & family law
- Getting a Marriage License in California
- Adopting a Child in California
- Guardianship of a Child or Adult in California
- Establishing Paternity in California
- Changing Your Name in California
- Child Custody Laws in California
- How Child Support Is Calculated in California
- Alimony and Spousal Support in California
- How to File for Divorce in California
- Legal Separation and Annulment in California
- All California divorce & family law rules
FAQ
Are divorce records public in California, and how do I get a copy?
Copies of the actual divorce decree can be obtained only from the Superior Court in the county where the divorce took place. Documents in court files are public records. The California Department of Public Health, Vital Records, holds divorce records only for 1962 through June 1984, and those are just the face sheet of the case; it can issue only a Certificate of Record (names of the parties, filing date, county and case number) for $18 per copy, using form VS 113B mailed with a check or money order.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.