Florida Divorce Decree Copy.

A divorce decree is a pivotal legal document that formally dissolves a marriage in Florida. It details the terms of the separation, encompassing property distribution, child custody plans, and monetary obligations. The significance of retaining a copy of this document cannot be understated, as it serves as the definitive record of the divorce and is vital for multiple post-divorce dealings and legal necessities.

In Florida, divorce records are deemed public records, meaning they are broadly open to the public. However, certain private details may be removed to protect privacy. The Florida Department of Health’s Bureau of Vital Statistics preserves divorce records from 1927 to the current day, providing a centralized source for obtaining these papers.

Legal Significance of a Divorce Decree

The divorce decree carries substantial legal authority in Florida, as it:

1. Signals the official termination of the marriage
2. Establishes binding responsibilities between the involved parties
3. Details property allocations and monetary duties
4. Sets child custody and visitation arrangements
5. Defines spousal and child support plans

Maintaining a copy of this document is crucial for numerous reasons, such as:

• Modifying one’s name
• Updating official documents
• Confirming marital status for legal or bureaucratic reasons
• Enforcing the conditions of the divorce
• Entering into a new marriage

Requesting a Divorce Decree Copy in Florida

The method of obtaining a copy of a divorce decree in Florida is generally uncomplicated, but it might differ depending on the county where the divorce was concluded. Here’s a step-by-step guide to assist you through the procedure:

Step 1: Determine the Appropriate Court

Pinpoint the county where the divorce was filed and finalized. In Florida, divorces are usually overseen by the Circuit Courts. You can use the Florida Courts website to locate the correct court based on your county.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Information

Before you make your request, compile the following information:

• Full names of both individuals involved in the divorce
• Date of the divorce (an estimate if the exact date is not known)
• Case number (if on hand)
• Your connection to the individuals involved (if you are not one of the parties)

Step 3: Choose Your Request Method

Florida provides several options to request a divorce decree copy:

1. In-Person: Visit the clerk’s office at the appropriate county courthouse.
2. Online: Many counties in Florida provide online services for record requests.
3. By Mail: Send a written appeal to the court clerk’s office.
4. By Phone: Some counties accept requests by phone, though this is not as common.

Step 4: Submit Your Request

Follow the court’s specific instructions for your chosen request method. For online requests, you may need to register an account on the court’s website. For mail requests, include a self-addressed stamped envelope for the return of documents.

Step 5: Pay the Required Fees

Charges for obtaining a divorce decree copy differ by county and the type of copy requested (certified or uncertified). Be prepared to pay these fees, typically ranging from $1 to $15 per copy, with extra costs for certification.

Identifying the Correct Courthouse in Florida

To find the correct courthouse for your divorce records in Florida, follow these steps:

1. Determine the County: Identify the Florida county where the divorce was filed and concluded.

2. Locate the Circuit Court: Each Florida county is part of a judicial circuit. Use the Florida Courts website to find your county’s circuit court.

3. Contact the Clerk’s Office: Reach out to the clerk’s office of the identified circuit court. Numerous counties in Florida have designated family law divisions managing divorce records.

4. Utilize Online Resources: Several Florida courts offer online case search tools. For instance, the Miami-Dade County Clerk of Courts provides an online search system.

5. Consult State Resources: The Florida Courts Help website gives guidance on navigating the court system and accessing records.

Online vs. In-Person Decree Document Requests in Florida

Online Requests

Advantages:

• Ease: Request from anywhere with an internet connection
• Faster: Generally quicker processing
• Cost-effective: Possibly lower fees and no travel expenses

Disadvantages:

• Limited direct support
• Possible technical problems
• Might not be available for every county or older documents

In-Person Requests

Advantages:

• Immediate assistance from court personnel
• On-the-spot resolution for complicated matters
• Potential for same-day service in some situations

Disadvantages:

• Requires travel to the courthouse
• Restricted to official business hours
• Potentially longer waiting periods

Choosing between online and in-person requests depends on aspects such as how quickly you need the document, your distance from the courthouse, and your comfort with using technology.

Cost of Acquiring a Divorce Decree Copy in Florida

The expense of obtaining a divorce decree copy in Florida varies by county and the type of copy requested. Here’s a general estimate:

• Uncertified Copies: Usually $1 to $5 per page
• Certified Copies: Typically $2 to $15 per document, plus per-page charges
• Search Fees: Some counties impose a search fee, ranging from $2 to $10

Additional fees might apply for rush service or special handling. For the most accurate pricing, contact the specific county court where the divorce was processed.

Digital vs. Certified Copies of Divorce Decrees in Florida

Digital Copies

Characteristics:

• Easily accessible and shareable
• Ideal for personal record-keeping
• Suitable for informal uses

Limitations:

• Does not carry an official court seal
• Not generally accepted for legal or formal purposes

Certified Copies

Characteristics:

• Contain the official court seal
• Recognized as legitimate and accurate copies of the original document
• Necessary for most formal and legal purposes

Uses:

• Changing names on government-issued identification
• Entering into a new marriage
• Enforcing child or spousal support agreements

When choosing between a digital or certified copy, think about the intended use of the document. For most formal purposes, a certified copy is typically required.

Accessing Archived Divorce Decrees in Florida

Accessing archived divorce decrees in Florida might involve extra steps, especially for older documents. Here’s how to proceed:

1. Determine the Age of the Record: Florida’s retention schedule for court records can vary. More recent records are usually simpler to access than older ones.

2. Contact the County Clerk: Reach out to the clerk’s office in the county where the divorce was finalized. They can offer details on how to access archived records.

3. Check State Archives: For particularly old records, consult the State Archives of Florida. They maintain historical court documents that could include divorce decrees.

4. Consider Third-Party Services: Some private entities provide record retrieval services, which might be useful for hard-to-locate records.

5. Be Prepared for Delays: Retrieving archived documents might take longer than accessing newer records.

6. Understand Limitations: Some very old records might be incomplete or unavailable due to deterioration or loss over time.