Sunday, January 26, 2014

California 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.

Authorized copies of divorce decrees contain the registrants, the date the case was filed as well as the county where the divorce was filed. Authorized copies can be used as supporting documents for those who need spousal support or child benefit(s). Those who are eligible to obtain an authorized copy include the registrant themselves, their kids, siblings or parents, their domestic partners, adoption agency (in case of adoptions), law enforcers as well as those individuals who are authorized to act on behalf of the parties. What sets the information copy apart from authorized copies is that informational copies cannot be used as a supporting document and is given for information purposes only.

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.

For those individuals who only require some information, they can request for a Certificate of Record from CDPH. A downloadable guide or pamphlet is available from the CDPH site, which contains a systematic guide as well as a request form that one needs to fill up and send to the Vital Records office. All fees are non-refundable and in case no records are shown, a Certificate of No Public Records is issued. The Office accepts only checks and money order only. Processing can exceed 6 months depending on the volume of requests received.

Those who are interested in getting a certified copy of the divorce can also contact the California Superior Court. Fees vary depending on the county or state from which one will request the information. In Alameda County, divorce records search costs about $15 for searches done for more than 15 minutes. Certified copies cost about $15; other fees may apply depending on the request of the person. The Superior Court of Alameda does not entertain public records search through phone; however, one can search the court records in person without a fee and through mail for additional fees. For more information and easier transaction process, one can also opt to avail of online public search from commercial public search sites.




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