Are Divorce Records Public? What Anyone Can See
Divorce files are usually court records, so they can be open to anyone. What you can see depends on the document and the state.
By Siddharth ShankarUpdated October 19, 2026In the US, divorce court documents are generally part of the public record unless a judge seals them. A divorce certificate and a decree can usually be requested only by the people involved, while the full case file is generally available like other court records. Sealing is not automatic and embarrassment alone is rarely enough. Rules vary by state, so check the court that heard the case.
Before you start opt-outs, see which known data breaches already include your email.
Free · About 30 seconds · No sign-up · Email not stored
A divorce can leave a paper trail that outlasts the marriage. If you are worried about what strangers, employers or former partners could find, it helps to know exactly which documents are public and which are not.
The short answer
According to LawDepot’s guide to divorce records in the US, divorce documents are generally part of the public record unless there is a specific reason to seal them. Most court documents are public. The answer still depends on which document you mean.
Three different documents
- Divorce certificate. It shows the names of the parties, where the divorce took place and when it became final. Typically only the people involved can request it, though exceptions may apply.
- Divorce decree. It sets out the court’s terms, such as support, custody, property and debt. Typically only the people involved can request it.
- Divorce record or case file. It contains all the documents from the proceedings. This is generally available like other court records.
The case file is the one that matters for privacy. Filings can contain addresses, children’s names and financial details.
When a court seals a divorce file
A court may seal documents if making them public could cause harm, such as exposing proprietary business information, sensitive child issues or domestic violence. Viewing sealed material usually needs a court order.
Sealing is not automatic. You have to ask for it, and minor reasons such as embarrassment usually are not enough. Alternatives include asking the court to redact specific parts, and in some states asking the judge to waive filing requirements so confidential information is not made public.
Removal is one half of the job. Check whether your email has leaked as well.
Free · About 30 seconds · No sign-up · Email not stored
How people look up divorce records
- Certificate: ordered from the local vital statistics office. Many accept online applications, and fees are typically $10 to $30.
- Decree or case file: requested from the court that heard the divorce, usually the state superior court or county circuit court. You need the case number and the court’s name. Many courts offer online case searches, and you can also apply by mail or in person.
- Federal records: PACER is a national online index for federal court records.
Rules and procedures differ by state, so check the court’s own website.
If you are worried about your own divorce records
1Ask your lawyer about sealing or redaction early
Do this before filing, because it is much harder to hide documents once they are public.
2Keep sensitive details out of filings
Where the law allows, avoid including full account numbers, children’s details and anything not needed.
3Check what is online
Search your name with the word divorce and see what appears. See court records and your name.
4Remove copies from broker sites
People-search sites often copy public record data. See how to opt out of people-search websites.
Documents that can reveal more than you expect
Financial affidavits, property lists and custody filings can contain full names, dates of birth, addresses and account details. If you can avoid including a detail, do. If you cannot, ask your lawyer whether it can be redacted.
Related guidance
Separation changes many other things online, from addresses to shared accounts. Read digital privacy after a divorce or separation for a full checklist.
Sources
- LawDepot: Are divorce records public? (certificate, decree and record, sealing, how to get copies, state differences)
Frequently asked questions
Are divorce records public in the US?
Generally yes. Divorce court documents are part of the public record unless a judge seals them.
Can anyone get a copy of my divorce decree?
Typically only the people involved can request a certificate or decree, while the full case file is generally available like other court records. Rules vary by state.
Can a divorce record be sealed?
Yes, but you must ask the court. Harm such as domestic violence or sensitive child issues can qualify, while embarrassment usually does not.
Where do I get a divorce certificate?
From the local vital statistics office, which often accepts online applications. Fees are typically $10 to $30.
Can I remove my divorce from the internet?
You can ask websites to remove copies, but the court file stays public unless sealed. A lawyer can advise on sealing or redaction.
See if your email has already leaked
- Checks your email against known data breaches
- Shows which sites leaked it, when, and what leaked
- We do not store the email you check
Compare data removal services
See which services work in your country, what they cost, and the free do-it-yourself route.
Compare removal services →Prefer a one-time report first? Scan My Shadow, our sister service, $9.99.