Divorce Records in Michigan
Whether divorce records are public in Michigan and how to get a copy of a divorce decree or certificate.
Short answer: Divorce records are not restricted in Michigan; anyone can request a search. The MDHHS Vital Records Office has records of Michigan divorces filed with the state since 1897 (some were never filed with the state). MDHHS, Application for a Certified Copy - Michigan Divorce Record (DCH-0569-DIV, Rev. 02/2025)
| Divorce records | Divorce records are not restricted in Michigan; anyone can request a search. The MDHHS Vital Records Office has records of Michigan divorces filed with the state since 1897 (some were never filed with the state). A mail request costs $34, which includes a one-year search and one certified copy or a no-record letter; additional years searched are $12 each, extra certified copies are $16 each, and rush processing is $12 more. Orders can also be placed online or by phone through VitalChek for an added fee. The state has only the record of divorce; for the actual divorce judgment, contact the county where the divorce was granted. |
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Where to get help in Michigan
More Michigan divorce & family law
- Getting a Marriage License in Michigan
- Adopting a Child in Michigan
- Guardianship of a Child or Adult in Michigan
- Establishing Paternity in Michigan
- Changing Your Name in Michigan
- Child Custody Laws in Michigan
- How Child Support Is Calculated in Michigan
- Alimony and Spousal Support in Michigan
- How to File for Divorce in Michigan
- Legal Separation and Annulment in Michigan
- All Michigan divorce & family law rules
FAQ
Are divorce records public in Michigan, and how do I get a copy?
Divorce records are not restricted in Michigan; anyone can request a search. The MDHHS Vital Records Office has records of Michigan divorces filed with the state since 1897 (some were never filed with the state). A mail request costs $34, which includes a one-year search and one certified copy or a no-record letter; additional years searched are $12 each, extra certified copies are $16 each, and rush processing is $12 more. Orders can also be placed online or by phone through VitalChek for an added fee. The state has only the record of divorce; for the actual divorce judgment, contact the county where the divorce was granted.
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.