Divorce Records in New York
Whether divorce records are public in New York and how to get a copy of a divorce decree or certificate.
Short answer: There are two kinds of divorce records in New York. The divorce decree (judgment), prepared by the court and signed by the judge, is filed with the County Clerk, usually in the county where the plaintiff lived; New York State Department of Health, Divorce Certificates
| Divorce records | There are two kinds of divorce records in New York. The divorce decree (judgment), prepared by the court and signed by the judge, is filed with the County Clerk, usually in the county where the plaintiff lived; contact the County Clerk for a copy. For divorces granted before January 1, 1963, the decree is the only record available. For divorces or civil annulments on or after January 1, 1963, the New York State Department of Health Vital Records office has a Divorce Certificate (Certificate of Dissolution of Marriage) with basic information about the spouses and the date and place the marriage ended. Only either spouse, or someone with a New York State court order, can get a copy of the certificate, with photo ID or other identification. Online and phone orders cost $45 per copy plus a vendor processing fee per transaction. The Department of Health page notes significant processing delays. Mail-order fees were not captured. |
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More New York divorce & family law
- Getting a Marriage License in New York
- Adopting a Child in New York
- Guardianship of a Child or Adult in New York
- Establishing Paternity in New York
- Changing Your Name in New York
- Child Custody Laws in New York
- How Child Support Is Calculated in New York
- Alimony and Spousal Support in New York
- How to File for Divorce in New York
- Legal Separation and Annulment in New York
- All New York divorce & family law rules
FAQ
Are divorce records public in New York, and how do I get a copy?
There are two kinds of divorce records in New York. The divorce decree (judgment), prepared by the court and signed by the judge, is filed with the County Clerk, usually in the county where the plaintiff lived; contact the County Clerk for a copy. For divorces granted before January 1, 1963, the decree is the only record available. For divorces or civil annulments on or after January 1, 1963, the New York State Department of Health Vital Records office has a Divorce Certificate (Certificate of Dissolution of Marriage) with basic information about the spouses and the date and place the marriage ended. Only either spouse, or someone with a New York State court order, can get a copy of the certificate, with photo ID or other identification. Online and phone orders cost $45 per copy plus a vendor processing fee per transaction.
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.