Dissolution of Marriage initiates a legal transition that ends a marital bond under Florida statutes. In Duval County the Family Court records each petition, hearing, and judgment to ensure transparency. Duval County FL dissolution of marriage records Duval County FL divorce records Duval County FL divorce records search Duval County FL divorce record lookup Duval County FL divorce records online Duval County FL divorce case records Duval County FL divorce decree Duval County FL divorce decree records Duval County FL final divorce decree Duval County FL divorce judgment Duval County FL final judgment Duval County FL marriage dissolution records Duval County FL family court records Duval County FL family court case search Duval County FL court records dissolution of marriage records dissolution of marriage search divorce records search divorce case search divorce record lookup divorce case number divorce filing date divorce case status divorce court records divorce case file divorce petition divorce complaint divorce response divorce judgment final divorce judgment divorce decree copy certified divorce decree certified divorce record divorce record request divorce record application divorce record fees divorce record processing time. These entries illustrate the breadth of documentation that can be examined by parties seeking clarity about their case.
Dissolution of Marriage cases generate a variety of official documents that can be accessed through specific search channels. Researchers may locate information by spouse name, case number, filing date, or court venue, and they can request certified copies directly from the clerk’s office. Divorce records by name divorce records by spouse name divorce records by case number divorce records by filing date divorce case outcome divorce records amended divorce judgment amended divorce decree historical divorce records archived divorce records public divorce records online divorce case records public court records restricted divorce records sealed divorce records confidential court records divorce record access divorce records available by request divorce records certified copy divorce clerk records court clerk divorce records divorce record verification verify divorce case number divorce record accuracy missing divorce record not found delayed divorce record updates divorce judgment not available divorce records privacy divorce financial records child custody orders child support orders spousal support orders property division records divorce records vs marriage records divorce records vs property records divorce records vs child support records dissolution of marriage vs divorce divorce decree vs divorce record.
How to Search Dissolution of Marriage
You can search Dissolution of marriage records through the official county records portal. The portal gives you access to case files, decrees, and judgments filed with the Family Court. You can look up cases by spouse name, case number, filing date, or court venue. Searches return public case details such as filing dates, party names, case status, and final judgment dates. Records that are sealed or restricted will not show up in a standard online search.
Official Search Portal: https://discover.pbc.gov/publicaffairs/pages/public_records_request.aspx
Steps to Search
- Open the official search portal using the link above.
- Choose the record type for Dissolution of Marriage or Family Court cases.
- Enter the spouse name, case number, or filing date in the search field.
- Review the list of matching cases shown on the results page.
- Select the case you want to view to see the full case detail.
- Request a certified copy through the clerk’s office if you need an official document.
How to Search Duval County FL Divorce Records
Duval County FL divorce records are stored with the Clerk of Court and are open to the public. You can search online, by mail, or in person at the clerk’s office. Each search method gives you access to different pieces of the case file. Knowing what details you have on hand will help you pick the right search option.
Search by Spouse Name
Searching by spouse name lets you find cases when you know the full legal name of either party. The portal matches the name against all divorce cases filed in Duval County. You can enter the last name first, then add the first name to narrow the results. This method works best when you have the full name and an approximate filing year.
Search by Case Number
Searching by case number gives you the most precise results. Each divorce case is assigned a unique case number when it is filed. The case number appears on all court paperwork related to the matter. If you have a case number from a prior notice or filing, you can use it to pull up the full record instantly.
Search by Filing Date
Searching by filing date lets you find cases filed during a specific month or year. This method helps you narrow results when the name or case number is unknown. You can set a date range to see all cases opened during that window. Filing date searches are useful for genealogical research and background checks.
Search by Court
Searching by court lets you view cases handled by a specific division. Divorce cases in Duval County fall under the Family Court division. You can filter your search to show only Family Court filings. This filter removes other civil cases from your results list.
Information Needed for a Search
Before you start a search, gather as much detail as you can about the case. The more facts you provide, the faster the search will be. Below are the common items you may need to enter:
- Full legal name of each spouse
- Date of marriage or date of separation
- Approximate year the divorce was filed
- Case number, if known
- Court division, such as Family Court
- Attorney name, if one was involved
Information in Dissolution of Marriage Records
Dissolution of Marriage records hold basic facts about the case and the parties. These facts are recorded by the clerk when each document is filed. The level of detail depends on the document type and the case stage. Some records are open to the public, while others stay sealed by court order.
Spouse Names
The full legal names of both spouses appear on the petition and the final decree. These names match the names on the marriage license. If either party changed their name during the case, that update will be noted in the record.
Case Number
Every divorce case receives a unique case number from the clerk. This number stays the same from filing to final judgment. You can use the case number to track every filing linked to the matter.
Filing Date
The filing date shows when the divorce petition was first submitted to the clerk. This date marks the start of the case. It also sets the timeline for required responses and hearings.
Court and Case Type
The record lists the court that handles the case, along with the case type. Duval County divorce cases are filed under Family Court. The case type confirms the matter is a Dissolution of Marriage and not another family filing.
Case Status
Case status shows the current stage of the divorce. Common statuses include pending, finalized, or dismissed. The status updates as the case moves through each phase.
Final Judgment Date
The final judgment date is the day the judge signs the final decree. This date marks the legal end of the marriage. All terms listed in the final decree take effect on this date.
| Record Field | What It Shows | Where to Find It |
|---|---|---|
| Spouse Names | Full legal names of both parties | Petition, decree, docket |
| Case Number | Unique ID for the case | All filings |
| Filing Date | Date the petition was filed | Docket sheet |
| Court | Family Court or other division | Case header |
| Case Status | Current stage of the case | Online portal |
| Final Judgment Date | Date the judge signed the decree | Final decree |
Types of Divorce Records
Divorce cases generate different record types during the life of the matter. Each document serves a specific role in the case. Some documents are public, while others are sealed by the judge. Knowing the type of record helps you decide what to request.
Divorce Case Files
Divorce case files hold all the paperwork linked to a single case. The file includes the petition, responses, motions, orders, and the final decree. You can request a copy of the full file from the clerk’s office.
Divorce Decrees
The divorce decree is the official order that ends the marriage. It lists the terms of the divorce, such as property division and support orders. The signed decree is filed with the clerk after the judge approves it.
Final Judgments
The final judgment is the court’s ruling that closes the case. It may be part of the decree or a separate document. The judgment date shows when the ruling was entered.
Divorce Petitions
The petition is the first document filed in a divorce case. It lists the names of the spouses, the grounds for the divorce, and the relief sought. The petition opens the case and starts the legal process.
Amended Divorce Records
Amended records update or correct a prior filing. A party may file an amended petition, an amended motion, or an amended judgment. These updates are added to the case file and become part of the official record.
Historical Divorce Records
Historical divorce records cover cases filed many years ago. Older records may be stored on microfilm or in an archive. You can still request copies of these older records through the clerk’s office.
| Record Type | Main Purpose | Public or Restricted |
|---|---|---|
| Case File | Holds all case paperwork | Public, with sealed parts removed |
| Divorce Decree | Final order ending the marriage | Public |
| Final Judgment | Court’s final ruling | Public |
| Petition | Opens the divorce case | Public |
| Amended Records | Correct or update a prior filing | Public |
| Historical Records | Older archived cases | Public |
Divorce Case Outcomes
A divorce case can end in several ways. The outcome depends on the filings, the hearings, and the judge’s ruling. Each outcome has its own status in the court system. You can view the outcome on the online docket.
Pending Cases
A pending case is one that is still open. Filings, hearings, and motions are still taking place. The final decree has not been signed yet.
Finalized Cases
A finalized case is closed by a final judgment. The judge has signed the decree, and all terms are in place. The case status moves to closed after entry of judgment.
Dismissed Cases
A dismissed case is closed without a final ruling on the divorce. This can happen if both parties withdraw the case or fail to move it forward. The marriage remains legally intact after a dismissal.
Final Judgments
A final judgment closes the case with a signed decree. The judgment lists all terms, such as custody, support, and property division. Once entered, the judgment is binding on both spouses.
Post-Judgment Filings
Post-judgment filings happen after the case is closed. These filings may deal with enforcement of the decree or changes to support orders. They are added to the same case number under the original file.
Duval County FL Dissolution of Marriage Records Access
Duval County FL dissolution of marriage records are held by the Clerk of Court. Most records are open to the public under Florida law. Some records are sealed by court order and cannot be viewed without approval. You can access records online, by mail, or in person.
Public Case Information
Public case data covers basic facts such as names, filing dates, and case status. This data is open to anyone who searches the online portal. Personal identifiers, like Social Security numbers, are removed from public view.
Online Record Access
The online portal gives you 24-hour access to case data. You can search by name, case number, or filing date. The portal shows the docket sheet, key filings, and the case status.
Court Clerk Records
The court clerk holds the original paper files for every divorce case. You can visit the clerk’s office to view files in person. The clerk can also print or certify copies of records on request.
Restricted Information
Restricted data covers details such as bank accounts, credit card numbers, and minor children’s identifiers. This data is removed from public records. Only the judge or the parties can view restricted data.
Sealed Divorce Records
Sealed records are closed by court order. You cannot view or copy sealed records without a court order granting access. Sealing is rare and usually tied to safety or privacy concerns.
Records Available by Request
You can request many record types directly from the clerk. Below are records you can ask for through a formal request:
- Certified copy of the divorce decree
- Certified copy of the final judgment
- Copy of the petition or response
- Copy of the case docket sheet
- Copies of motions and orders
- Historical or archived case files
Obtaining Divorce Records
You can get divorce records through online, mail, or in-person requests. The method you pick depends on how fast you need the record and what type of copy you want. Certified copies carry the clerk’s seal and can be used for legal purposes. Regular copies are for personal review only.
Online Requests
Online requests let you order copies through the clerk’s portal. You can pay the fee with a credit or debit card. The clerk emails or mails the copy based on your choice at checkout.
Mail Requests
Mail requests require a written letter or a request form. You send the letter, a copy of your ID, and a check or money order to the clerk. The clerk processes the request and mails the copy back to you.
In-Person Requests
In-person requests are handled at the clerk’s office during business hours. You fill out a request form and show your ID at the counter. The clerk prints the copy while you wait or sets a pickup time.
Certified Copies
Certified copies carry an official court seal and a clerk’s signature. Banks, courts, and government agencies often require certified copies. Each certified copy has a set fee.
Identification Requirements
You must show valid ID to get a certified copy of a divorce record. The clerk checks your ID before releasing the document. Common forms of ID include the following:
- State-issued driver’s license
- Passport or passport card
- State-issued identification card
- Military identification card
- Tribal identification card
Copy Fees
The clerk charges a fee for each copy of a divorce record. Certified copies cost more than plain copies. Fees are set by Florida statute and may change over time.
Processing Times
Processing times depend on the request method and the clerk’s workload. Online requests are often the fastest. Official marriage license details and verified records are maintained through local county databases. Mail requests take longer due to postal delivery on both ends. In-person requests can be filled the same day for simple lookups.
| Request Method | Typical Processing Time | Copy Type Available |
|---|---|---|
| Online | 1 to 3 business days | Plain or certified |
| 7 to 14 business days | Plain or certified | |
| In-Person | Same day for most records | Plain or certified |
Information Protected in Divorce Records
Florida law protects certain data in divorce records from public view. This protects the parties and any children involved. Protected data is removed or redacted before records are released to the public.
Personal Identifying Information
Personal identifiers such as Social Security numbers and dates of birth are redacted. Driver’s license numbers and passport numbers are also removed. Account numbers and similar identifiers are redacted as well.
Financial Information
Financial data such as bank account numbers, credit card numbers, and tax IDs are protected. Income details shared in support filings may also be limited. This keeps sensitive money data out of public view.
Child-Related Information
Records that list minor children’s full names, schools, or medical data are protected. Courts may seal filings that disclose a child’s location. The goal is to shield children from public exposure.
Sealed Case Documents
Sealed documents are fully removed from public access. A judge must issue an order to seal a document. Once sealed, only the parties and the court can view the record.
Confidential Court Filings
Confidential filings cover data such as adoption records, mental health evaluations, and domestic violence details. These filings are kept separate from the public file. Access requires a court order or party status.
Divorce Decree and Final Judgment
The divorce decree and the final judgment close out the case. These documents list the terms the judge has approved. They also mark the legal end of the marriage. You can use certified copies of these documents for name changes, remarriage, and other legal steps.
Final Divorce Decree
The final divorce decree is the signed order that ends the marriage. It lists all terms approved by the judge. Once filed with the clerk, the decree becomes part of the public record.
Judgment Date
The judgment date is the day the judge signs the final order. This date sets the start of the appeal window. It also marks the legal end of the marriage.
Terms Recorded in the Judgment
The judgment records terms such as property division, debt allocation, custody, and support. Each term is binding on both spouses. Changes to these terms after entry require a new court order.
Amended Judgments
An amended judgment updates or corrects the original final order. Courts may issue amended judgments to fix clerical errors or to reflect a new ruling. The amended judgment replaces the original order in the record.
Certified Judgment Copies
Certified judgment copies carry the clerk’s seal and signature. These copies are accepted by banks, courts, and government agencies. You can order certified copies through the clerk’s office.
Divorce Records and Related Court Matters
Divorce cases often link to other court matters. These matters may continue after the divorce is final. Each linked matter has its own case file and docket. You can search these matters through the same clerk’s portal.
Property Division Records
Property division records show how the court split assets and debts. These records may include deeds, titles, and lien documents. They are filed as part of the divorce case.
Child Custody Orders
Child custody orders set the legal custody and time-sharing schedule for minor children. These orders stay in effect until a court changes them. They are filed under the divorce case number.
Child Support Orders
Child support orders set the amount one parent pays the other for the children’s care. The orders often include payment instructions and enforcement terms. Support orders may be modified after entry.
Spousal Support Orders
Spousal support orders set the amount and length of alimony payments. These orders are based on income, assets, and the length of the marriage. They may also be reviewed for modification.
Post-Divorce Modifications
Post-divorce modifications update custody, support, or other terms. A party must file a motion to request a change. The court holds a hearing before issuing a new order.
Divorce Record Accuracy and Limitations
Divorce records are kept as accurate as possible. Still, errors and gaps can appear. Some records take time to appear online after filing. Sealed records and restricted data are not visible to the public. Knowing these limits helps you avoid wrong results.
Confirming the Correct Case
Always confirm you have the right case before requesting certified copies. Check the spouse names, case number, and filing date. A small typo can pull up the wrong case.
Matching Spouse Names
Spouse names on the record match the legal names used at filing. If a name changed after the divorce, that change shows on later records. Use the legal name from the time of filing for the best match.
Verifying Case Numbers
Verify the case number before placing a request. The case number appears on every filing in the case. A correct number saves you time and fees.
Recently Filed Cases
Recently filed cases may take days or weeks to appear online. The clerk must scan and upload new filings. If your case does not show up, check back after a few business days.
Delayed Record Updates
Record updates can lag behind court actions. The clerk updates the docket after each filing. Some updates take longer during high-volume periods.
Missing Documents
Missing documents can happen if a paper file is lost or misfiled. Older files are more likely to have gaps. The clerk can search archived indexes to recover missing items.
Restricted Records
Restricted records are not shown in public searches. You cannot view or copy these records without a court order. If you believe a record is wrongly restricted, you can file a motion to unseal.
Search Problems
Search problems happen when the data entered does not match the record. Old cases, name changes, and typos are common causes. Some records may be sealed or restricted. Knowing the cause helps you fix the search fast.
Record Not Found
A record not found result means no case matched your search terms. Try a broader name spelling or a wider date range. Check for typos in the name or case number.
Incorrect Name
An incorrect name entry returns no results or wrong results. Use the legal name on file at the time of the divorce. Try different spellings if you are unsure.
Incorrect Case Number
An incorrect case number returns no match. Verify the number on a prior notice or filing. A single wrong digit can cause a miss.
Wrong Court
A wrong court filter can hide the case from your results. Duval County divorce cases fall under Family Court. Remove court filters if you are not sure where the case was filed.
Judgment Not Available
A judgment not available message means the final decree is not yet on file. New cases may show this status until the clerk enters the judgment. Check back after a few business days.
Restricted Record
A restricted record result means the case or document is sealed. You cannot view it without a court order. Contact the clerk for guidance on how to ask for access.
Delayed Case Update
A delayed case update means the clerk has not yet entered a recent filing. Updates can lag behind the actual filing date. Try again after a short wait.
Dissolution of Marriage Records and Related Records
Divorce records are one part of a larger set of public records. They differ from marriage, court, property, and child support records. Knowing the difference helps you pick the right source for your search.
Divorce Records vs. Marriage Records
Divorce records show the end of a marriage. Marriage records show when the marriage began. Both are filed with the clerk, but they are kept in separate indexes.
Divorce Records vs. Divorce Decrees
Divorce records cover the full case file. Divorce decrees are the final signed order. The decree is one part of the broader case record.
Divorce Records vs. Court Records
Court records cover every case type filed in the court system. Divorce records are limited to Dissolution of Marriage cases. Both are searchable through the clerk’s portal.
Divorce Records vs. Property Records
Property records show ownership of real estate. Divorce records may mention property transfers tied to the divorce. For full title history, search the property records separately.
Divorce Records vs. Child Support Records
Child support records track payments and enforcement actions. Divorce records may include the original support order. For current payment data, contact the child support agency.
Divorce Records vs. Separation Records
Separation records show legal separation filings, not divorce. Separation does not end the marriage. A divorce case must be filed separately to end the marriage.
Contact Information for Duval County FL Dissolution of Marriage Records
You can reach the records office through the contact details listed below. The office handles public records requests, certified copies, and case lookups. Office hours run Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Use the phone line, email, or in-person counter based on your request type.
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Website | https://pbc.gov/ |
| Direct Records Portal | https://discover.pbc.gov/publicaffairs/pages/public_records_request.aspx |
| Phone | 561-355-6680 |
| recordsrequest@pbc.gov | |
| Address | 301 N. Olive Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33401 |
| Office Hours | Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM |
| 311 Service | No countywide 311 number verified; use the listed department/service phone. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Finding Dissolution of Marriage records in Duval County, FL helps you confirm legal status, retrieve important documents, and plan next steps. The online portal, phone service, and in‑person office give you several ways to locate case files, decrees, and judgments quickly. Below are the most common questions people ask when looking for these records.
How can I search for a Dissolution of Marriage record in Duval County, FL?
Visit the Duval County Clerk’s public records portal and select the Family Court section. Enter the spouse’s name, case number, or filing date in the search fields. The system returns case status, filing date, and links to view the judgment or decree. If the record is sealed, it will not appear in the public results. You can also call the clerk’s office at 904‑255‑2025 for assistance or request a search in person.
What information is needed to request a certified copy of divorce decree?
You must provide the full names of both parties, the case number, and the date of the final judgment. A completed request form can be downloaded from the clerk’s website or obtained at the courthouse. Include a self‑addressed stamped envelope and the $1 per page copy fee plus a $2 certification fee. Submit the form by mail, email, or in person. The clerk will process the request and mail the certified copy within the stated processing time.
Where can I find online Duval County FL divorce records for a specific case number?
Log in to the CORE online records portal (core.duvalclerk.com). Choose “Family Law” and enter the exact case number in the search box. The results list all documents filed under that case, including the petition, response, and final judgment. You can view PDFs directly, download them, or print a copy. If the case is older than 10 years, some files may be archived and require a formal records request.
How do I verify the status of a dissolution of marriage case that was filed last year?
Use the same online portal and search by filing date or party name. The status field shows whether the case is “Pending,” “Finalized,” or “Dismissed.” For a more detailed update, contact the Family Court clerk by phone and provide the case number. The clerk can tell you if a final judgment has been entered, whether any motions are pending, and the next scheduled hearing date.
What are the fees and processing time for obtaining a certified copy?
The clerk charges $1 per page for the copy and $2 for each certification. Payments can be made by credit card, money order, or cashier’s check. After the request is received, the office typically prepares the certified document within 3‑5 business days. Expedited service is available for an additional $10 fee, which reduces the turnaround to 1‑2 business days. All fees are listed on the clerk’s website for reference.