Broward Clerk Of Courts Divorce Records provide public access to legal divorce documents filed in Broward County, Florida. These records include final judgments, property settlements, child custody agreements, and alimony orders. Anyone can search, view, or request certified copies through official channels. The records date back to 1970 and are maintained by the Family Division of the Broward County Clerk of Courts. Services are available online, by mail, or in person at multiple locations across the county. The office ensures compliance with Florida public records laws while protecting sensitive personal information.
How to Search Broward County Divorce Records Online
The Broward County Clerk of Courts offers a free online portal for searching divorce records. Users can enter a party’s name, case number, or filing date to find relevant documents. Results show PDF copies of original filings, including decrees and settlement details. The system updates daily and includes cases from 1970 to the present. Searches are secure and do not require registration. For certified copies, users must submit a notarized request form. The portal also displays docket status, indicating whether a case is closed, appealed, or under modification. This tool helps attorneys, researchers, and individuals verify legal outcomes quickly.
Types of Divorce Documents Available
Broward County divorce records contain several key documents. The petition starts the case and lists reasons for divorce. The final judgment ends the marriage legally. Property settlement schedules detail how assets and debts were divided. Child custody arrangements outline parenting plans and visitation rights. Alimony or spousal support orders specify payment amounts and durations. Some files include temporary restraining orders or domestic violence protections. All documents are public unless sealed by court order. Users can download digital copies instantly or request physical versions. Certified copies carry the clerk’s seal and are accepted for legal purposes like remarriage or immigration.
Requesting Certified Copies of Divorce Decrees
Certified copies of Broward County divorce decrees require a formal request. Applicants must complete a notarized form and pay a processing fee. Standard service takes three business days. For urgent needs, a 24-hour express option costs an extra $25. Requests can be submitted online, by mail, or in person. Include the case number, parties’ names, and decree date if known. Mail requests to 201 SE 6th Street, Room 03340, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301. In-person pickup is available at the main office in Plantation or downtown Fort Lauderdale. Certified copies are required for legal name changes, remarriage, or international travel.
Fees and Payment Options for Divorce Records
The Broward Clerk of Courts charges fees for certain services related to divorce records. Certified copies cost $5 per page plus a $20 processing fee. Express service adds $25 for 24-hour turnaround. Online searches are free, but third-party vendors may charge for bulk downloads. Payment methods include credit cards, money orders, cash, and electronic transfers. Fee waivers are not available for divorce records. All payments are processed securely through the clerk’s official portal. Receipts are provided for all transactions. Contact the fee inquiry hotline at (954) 831-5850 for questions about charges.
Locations and Hours for In-Person Requests
Three Broward County locations handle divorce record requests in person. The main office at 100 North Pine Island Road, Plantation, FL 33324, operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The downtown Fort Lauderdale branch at 201 SE 6th Street serves walk-ins from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Dania Beach location also offers full services during the same hours. Appointments are recommended but not required. Temperature checks and face masks were previously required but are no longer enforced. All locations provide self-service kiosks for basic searches. Staff assist with complex requests and certified copy orders.
Privacy and Sealed Divorce Records
Most Broward County divorce records are public under Florida Statute 119.07. However, some cases may be sealed by court order due to safety concerns or minor children. Sealed records are not accessible online or in person without a judge’s approval. Parties can request sealing if they face harassment or identity theft risks. The clerk’s office marks restricted files clearly in the database. Researchers should check docket notes before assuming a record is available. If a case is sealed, a formal motion must be filed with the court to gain access. This protects victims of domestic violence and other vulnerable individuals.
Understanding Legal Terms in Divorce Filings
Divorce records contain legal language that may confuse non-lawyers. “Equitable distribution” means fair division of marital property, not necessarily equal. “No-fault divorce” indicates neither party is blamed for the marriage ending. “Temporary restraining order” restricts contact between spouses during proceedings. “Final judgment” legally ends the marriage. “Child support modification” adjusts payments based on income changes. The clerk’s website provides a glossary to help users interpret these terms. Staff cannot give legal advice but can explain document formats. For complex cases, consult an attorney familiar with Florida family law.
Expedited Services for Urgent Requests
The Broward Clerk of Courts offers fast processing for time-sensitive divorce record needs. Express service delivers certified copies within 24 hours for an additional $25. This applies to standard document requests only. Expedited child-support modifications are handled separately and completed within one business day. Urgent requests should be clearly marked and submitted with proper identification. Payment must accompany the request. Same-day service is not guaranteed but is prioritized. Contact the Family Division at (954) 831-5850 to confirm availability. This service benefits individuals needing records for court hearings, job applications, or travel deadlines.
Third-Party Access and Background Checks
Employers, landlords, and investigators often request Broward County divorce records for background checks. These third parties must follow the same procedures as individuals. They can search the online portal but need written consent to obtain certified copies. Some use authorized vendors that partner with the clerk’s office. Vendors charge extra fees but offer bulk access and data formatting. The clerk does not verify the purpose of third-party requests. All users must comply with Florida’s public records laws. Misuse of information may result in legal penalties. The office recommends redacting sensitive details when sharing records externally.
Historical Divorce Records and Research
Broward County maintains divorce records dating back to 1970 in digital format. Older cases prior to 1970 may be available in physical archives. Researchers studying family history or legal trends can access these files through the Records Search and Copy Services division. Requests for pre-1970 documents take five business days and cost $5 per page. Digital scans are provided when possible. The database includes over 12,000 entries updated monthly. Trends show increasing use of no-fault divorces and shared custody arrangements. Academic institutions and genealogists frequently use this data for studies on marriage and family dynamics in South Florida.
Common Reasons People Request Divorce Records
Individuals seek Broward County divorce records for many reasons. Some need proof of single status to remarry. Others require documents for immigration visas or passport applications. Lawyers use them to verify past settlements in new cases. Insurance companies may request records to update beneficiary information. Genealogists trace family lineages using historical filings. Employers occasionally ask for verification during background checks. Regardless of purpose, all requesters follow the same process. The clerk’s office treats each request equally and processes them in order received. No special access is granted based on profession or status.
Online vs. In-Person Record Access
Users can choose between online and in-person access to Broward County divorce records. The online portal is free, fast, and available 24/7. It shows digital copies but not certified versions. In-person visits allow immediate pickup of certified copies and staff assistance. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments reduce wait times. Mail requests take longer but suit those outside the area. Each method has pros and cons. Online is convenient for viewing; in-person is better for legal proof. Most people start online and visit only if they need certified documents. The clerk encourages digital use to reduce crowding and speed up service.
Contact Information and Support
The Broward County Clerk of Courts provides multiple ways to get help with divorce records. Call (954) 831-6565 for general inquiries or (954) 831-5850 for fee questions. Email support is available through the contact form on the official website. Live chat operates during business hours. Staff respond within one business day. For technical issues with the online portal, call the IT help desk at (954) 831-3371. All contact methods are listed on the clerk’s homepage. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Emergency requests should be directed to the Family Division supervisor.
Official Website and Trusted Resources
The official source for Broward County divorce records is the Broward Clerk of Courts website. It hosts the free search portal, request forms, and fee schedules. Other sites may offer similar services but often charge extra fees. Only the clerk’s office provides certified copies with legal validity. Avoid unofficial platforms that promise faster results or lower prices. They may sell outdated or incomplete data. Bookmark the official site to ensure access to accurate, up-to-date records. The clerk regularly updates the database and announces changes through press releases.
Official website: https://www.browardclerk.org/
Phone: (954) 831-6565
Main office address: 100 North Pine Island Road, Plantation, FL 33324
Downtown office: 201 Southeast 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about accessing Broward County divorce records. Below are answers to the most common inquiries based on official policies and user experiences.
Can I get a divorce record if I don’t know the case number?
Yes, you can search Broward County divorce records without a case number. Use the online portal and enter the full name of either party involved in the divorce. The system will return all matching cases with details like filing date and docket status. If multiple results appear, review each one to find the correct record. Having additional information such as the spouse’s name or approximate divorce year helps narrow results. Once located, you can request certified copies using the case number shown in the search results.
Are divorce records free to view online?
Viewing divorce records online is completely free through the Broward Clerk of Courts portal. You can search by name, case number, or date and download digital copies of documents at no cost. However, certified copies—those with the official clerk’s seal—require a fee and notarized request form. Free access supports transparency and public right to information. The system does not limit the number of searches or downloads. For bulk research, consider using CSV export options available on third-party partner sites, though these may charge nominal fees.
How long does it take to receive certified divorce documents?
Standard processing for certified divorce documents takes three business days from receipt of a complete request. Include a notarized form, correct fees, and accurate case details to avoid delays. Express service reduces this to 24 hours for an extra $25. Mail requests may take longer due to postal delivery times. In-person pickup is fastest if you bring all required materials. Processing begins only after payment clears. During peak periods like tax season or holidays, slight delays may occur. Track your request status online using the confirmation number provided at submission.
Can someone else request my divorce record for me?
Yes, a third party can request your Broward County divorce record with proper authorization. They must submit a notarized letter from you granting permission and include their own ID. The request form should clearly state the representative’s name and relationship to you. Attorneys acting on your behalf need only a signed retainer agreement. Law enforcement or government agencies may access records without consent under specific legal conditions. Always verify the requester’s identity to prevent fraud. The clerk’s office does not release certified copies to unauthorized individuals, even if they claim urgency.
What if my divorce was finalized before 1970?
Divorce records before 1970 are not available online but may exist in physical archives. Contact the Records Search and Copy Services division to inquire about older cases. Provide as much detail as possible, including full names, dates, and location of the court. Processing takes up to five business days and costs $5 per page. Digital scans are created when feasible. Some very old records may be incomplete or lost due to storage limitations. If no record is found, the clerk will issue a letter stating the search was conducted. This document can sometimes serve as proof of no prior marriage in certain legal contexts.
Are child custody details included in divorce records?
Yes, child custody arrangements are part of Broward County divorce records when applicable. These sections outline parenting schedules, decision-making responsibilities, and visitation rights. They appear in the final judgment or a separate custody agreement filed with the court. Information about child support amounts and payment schedules is also included. Names of minor children are redacted in public versions to protect privacy. Full details are only available in certified copies requested by involved parties or their legal representatives. Researchers should note that custody orders can be modified later, so always check the docket status for updates.
How do I correct an error in my divorce record?
If you find an error in your Broward County divorce record, contact the Family Division immediately. Errors might include misspelled names, incorrect dates, or inaccurate property divisions. The clerk cannot amend court orders but can flag discrepancies for judicial review. You may need to file a motion with the original judge to correct the record. Bring proof of the mistake, such as a marriage certificate or bank statement. Once the court approves the change, the clerk updates the file and issues a corrected certified copy. This process typically takes two to four weeks depending on court availability.