logo
NewYorkRecords.us
Search Public Records
New York Public Records /New York County Divorce Records

New York County Divorce Records

What Are New York County Divorce Records?

New York County divorce records are official legal documents maintained by the New York County Clerk's Office that document the dissolution of marriages within the jurisdiction. These records are created and maintained pursuant to New York Domestic Relations Law § 236, which governs matrimonial actions including divorce proceedings. Divorce records serve as the definitive legal documentation that a marriage has been legally terminated through court proceedings.

Divorce records in New York County typically consist of several components:

  • The divorce decree (final judgment)
  • The divorce certificate
  • Supporting court documents filed during the divorce process
  • Records of court proceedings related to the divorce case

These official records are utilized for numerous important purposes, including:

  • Providing legal proof of marital status change
  • Facilitating remarriage
  • Documenting legal name changes resulting from divorce
  • Supporting applications for Social Security benefits
  • Verifying marital status for loan applications
  • Establishing marital history for immigration matters
  • Resolving estate and inheritance matters

The New York State Unified Court System maintains divorce records as part of its official court record system, with specific records housed at the New York County Supreme Court, which has jurisdiction over divorce proceedings in Manhattan.

Are New York County Divorce Records Public?

New York County divorce records have a complex public access status that varies by document type and information sensitivity. Under the New York Public Officers Law § 87, commonly known as the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), government records are generally presumed public. However, divorce records are subject to specific limitations and protections.

The public accessibility of divorce records in New York County is structured as follows:

  • Court divorce case files: Basic case information such as party names, case numbers, and filing dates are generally public and searchable through the New York State Unified Court System's electronic case information system. However, access to the complete case file requires visiting the courthouse in person.

  • Divorce certificates and decrees: Certified copies of divorce certificates and decrees have restricted access. Pursuant to New York Public Health Law § 4174, these documents are available only to:

    • The parties named in the divorce
    • Attorneys of record representing the parties
    • Individuals with a New York State Court order authorizing access
    • Individuals with a properly executed power of attorney from one of the parties

  • Confidential information: Certain information within divorce files is automatically sealed or redacted, including:

    • Social Security numbers
    • Financial account information
    • Children's names and identifying information
    • Allegations of domestic violence
    • Health and medical information

The New York County Clerk's Office and the New York County Supreme Court Records Room are the primary custodians of these records and implement these access restrictions in accordance with state law.

How To Find a Divorce Record In New York County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in New York County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The appropriate approach depends on the requester's relationship to the case and the specific documents needed.

For parties to the divorce or their authorized representatives:

  1. Visit the New York County Clerk's Office Records Room in person:

New York County Clerk's Office
60 Centre Street, Room 141B
New York, NY 10007
(646) 386-5955
New York County Clerk

Operating hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (excluding court holidays)

  1. Complete a "Request for Divorce Record" form, available at the clerk's office or downloadable from the New York State Unified Court System website.

  2. Present valid government-issued photo identification.

  3. Pay the applicable fees:

    • Certificate of Disposition: $8.00
    • Certified copy of divorce decree: $8.00 plus $1.00 per page
    • Exemplified copy: $8.00 plus $3.00 for exemplification

For researchers or individuals seeking index information only:

  1. Visit the New York County Supreme Court Records Room:

New York County Supreme Court Records Room
60 Centre Street, Room 116
New York, NY 10007
(646) 386-3025
New York County Supreme Court

  1. Use the public access terminals to search the divorce index by party name and case number.

  2. Note that full case file review requires proper identification and may be subject to restrictions based on the requester's relationship to the case.

For expedited service, certified copies of divorce certificates (not the full decree) may also be ordered through the New York State Department of Health for divorces granted from 1963 onward.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in New York County Online?

New York County provides limited online access to divorce record information. The digital availability of these records is restricted due to privacy considerations and the sensitive nature of divorce proceedings. Currently, the following online search options are available:

  1. New York State Unified Court System WebCriminal/WebCivil Supreme: This system allows users to search basic case information for divorces filed after 2000:

    • Visit the WebCivil Supreme website
    • Select "Supreme Court" and "New York County" from the dropdown menus
    • Search by party name or index number
    • Note: This system provides only basic case information (parties, filing date, case type, and status) but not actual documents

  2. New York State Department of Health Divorce Certificate Application: For divorces granted from 1963 onward, individuals may initiate a request for a divorce certificate online:

    • Visit the NYS Department of Health Divorce Certificate page
    • Complete the online application form
    • Pay the required fee ($30 per certificate)
    • Note: This service is restricted to parties named in the divorce, their representatives with proper authorization, or individuals with a court order

  3. eTrack Case Notification System: Attorneys and parties to active cases can register for case updates:

    • Visit the eTrack portal
    • Create an account and register for specific case notifications
    • Receive email alerts about case developments

It is important to note that full divorce records and documents are not available for direct download online due to privacy protections established under New York Domestic Relations Law § 235, which restricts public access to matrimonial action records.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In New York County?

Members of the public seeking to access divorce records in New York County without incurring fees have limited options, as most official record requests involve statutory fees. However, certain basic information may be accessed without charge:

  1. In-person index searches: The public may visit the New York County Supreme Court Records Room to conduct free index searches using public access terminals:

New York County Supreme Court Records Room
60 Centre Street, Room 116
New York, NY 10007
(646) 386-3025
New York County Supreme Court

Operating hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (excluding court holidays)

  1. New York County Clerk's Office public counter: Basic case status information may be obtained without charge by visiting:

New York County Clerk's Office
60 Centre Street, Room 141B
New York, NY 10007
(646) 386-5955
New York County Clerk

  1. Law libraries: The following public law libraries provide free access to legal research databases that may contain published divorce decisions:

New York County Supreme Court Law Library
80 Centre Street, Room 468
New York, NY 10013
(646) 386-3715
NY Courts Law Libraries

New York Public Library - Law Division
Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
476 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10018
(917) 275-6975
NYPL Law Division

While index information may be accessed without charge, obtaining copies of actual divorce documents will require payment of statutory fees as established by New York CPLR § 8019, which sets forth the fee schedule for county clerk services.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In New York County

Divorce records in New York County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the legal dissolution of a marriage. These records are maintained pursuant to New York Domestic Relations Law § 236 and typically include the following components:

  1. Divorce Certificate: A concise document verifying that a divorce was granted, including:

    • Names of both parties
    • Date and place of marriage
    • Date the divorce was granted
    • County where the divorce was finalized
    • Case/index number

  2. Divorce Decree (Judgment of Divorce): The official court order terminating the marriage, which includes:

    • Legal grounds for the divorce
    • Court's final determination
    • Judge's signature
    • Court seal
    • Filing date

  3. Complaint/Petition for Divorce: The initial filing that initiated the divorce action, containing:

    • Names and addresses of both parties
    • Date and place of marriage
    • Grounds for seeking divorce
    • Residency information establishing jurisdiction
    • Relief requested from the court

  4. Stipulation of Settlement/Separation Agreement: If the divorce was resolved by agreement, this document details:

    • Division of marital property and debts
    • Spousal maintenance arrangements
    • Child custody and visitation schedules
    • Child support obligations
    • Other negotiated terms

  5. Financial Disclosure Statements: Sworn statements detailing each party's financial situation:

    • Income information
    • Asset inventories
    • Debt schedules
    • Expense declarations

  6. Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs): Court orders directing the division of retirement accounts and pension benefits

  7. Child Support Worksheets: Calculations used to determine child support obligations based on the New York Child Support Standards Act

  8. Parenting Plans: Detailed arrangements for child custody, visitation, and decision-making authority

  9. Court Transcripts: Records of testimony and proceedings that occurred during hearings or trial

  10. Affidavits and Sworn Statements: Various sworn statements submitted during the divorce process

The New York County Clerk's Office maintains these records in both physical and electronic formats, with varying retention schedules based on document type and significance.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In New York County?

Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in New York County may obtain this documentation through several authorized channels. The type of proof needed will determine the appropriate request method.

For a Certificate of Disposition (basic proof of divorce):

  1. Visit the New York County Clerk's Office in person:

New York County Clerk's Office
60 Centre Street, Room 141B
New York, NY 10007
(646) 386-5955
New York County Clerk

  1. Complete a "Request for Certificate of Disposition" form, providing:

    • Full names of both parties as they appear on the divorce record
    • Date of divorce (approximate if exact date unknown)
    • Index number (if known)

  2. Present valid government-issued photo identification

  3. Pay the $8.00 fee per certificate (cash, credit card, or money order)

For a Certified Copy of the Divorce Decree:

  1. Submit a written request to the New York County Clerk's Office by mail:

New York County Clerk's Office
60 Centre Street, Room 141B
New York, NY 10007
(646) 386-5955
New York County Clerk

  1. Include in your request:
    • A completed "Request for Certified Copy of Divorce Decree" form
    • Copy of valid government-issued photo identification
    • Money order for $8.00 plus $1.00 per page (payable to "New York County Clerk")
    • Self-addressed stamped envelope

For divorces granted from 1963 onward, a Divorce Certificate may also be obtained through the New York State Department of Health:

  1. Visit the NYS Department of Health Vital Records website

  2. Complete the application form DOH-4382

  3. Include:

    • Copy of valid identification
    • $30.00 fee per certificate
    • Proof of entitlement (for parties other than those named in the divorce)

Processing times vary by method, with in-person requests typically fulfilled the same day and mail requests processed within 10-15 business days. Expedited service is available for an additional fee.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In New York County?

In New York County, divorce proceedings and records are subject to specific confidentiality provisions that balance the public's right to access court records with the privacy interests of the parties involved. While complete confidentiality of divorce cases is uncommon, certain protections are available under New York law.

Pursuant to New York Domestic Relations Law § 235, matrimonial action records, including divorce proceedings, receive special treatment regarding public access. The following confidentiality measures apply:

  1. Automatic Sealing of Sensitive Information:

    • Financial affidavits and net worth statements
    • Children's names and identifying information
    • Social Security numbers
    • Tax returns and financial account numbers
    • Medical and health information
    • Allegations of domestic violence

  2. Sealing by Judicial Order: Parties may petition the court to seal additional portions of the divorce record by demonstrating that:

    • Public access would likely result in harm, embarrassment, or serious injury to the parties or their children
    • The privacy interest outweighs the public interest in disclosure
    • Sealing is narrowly tailored to protect legitimate privacy concerns

  3. Anonymous Filing: In exceptional circumstances, the court may permit parties to file under "Anonymous v. Anonymous" when:

    • The case involves highly sensitive matters
    • Public disclosure would cause significant harm
    • The party requesting anonymity demonstrates compelling reasons

  4. Confidential Alternative Dispute Resolution: Parties may utilize:

    • Mediation
    • Collaborative divorce
    • Private judging

These processes typically generate fewer public records than traditional litigation, though the final judgment must still be filed with the court.

It is important to note that even when portions of a divorce file are sealed, basic case information (parties' names, case number, and general case type) typically remains public in the court's index pursuant to New York Judiciary Law § 255, which requires courts to maintain public dockets.

Parties seeking confidentiality should consult with legal counsel early in the divorce process to develop appropriate strategies for protecting sensitive information.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In New York County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in New York County varies significantly based on multiple factors, including case complexity, level of agreement between parties, court caseload, and procedural approach. The New York State Unified Court System provides the following general timeframes for divorce cases in New York County:

Uncontested Divorces:

  • Minimum processing time: 3-6 months
  • Average processing time: 6-9 months
  • Factors affecting timeline:
    • Completeness and accuracy of paperwork
    • Current court processing volume
    • Method of submission (e-filing typically expedites processing)

Contested Divorces:

  • Minimum duration: 9-12 months
  • Average duration: 12-18 months
  • Complex cases: 18-36 months or longer
  • Factors affecting timeline:
    • Complexity of assets requiring valuation and division
    • Child custody disputes
    • Spousal support disagreements
    • Discovery complications
    • Court calendar congestion
    • Motion practice and judicial decisions
    • Attorney scheduling conflicts

According to the New York State Unified Court System's 2023 Annual Report, the average time from filing to disposition for contested matrimonial cases in New York County was 382 days, while uncontested cases averaged 201 days.

The New York County Supreme Court has implemented several initiatives to reduce processing times:

  • Dedicated matrimonial parts with specialized judges
  • Preliminary conference scheduling within 45 days of request for judicial intervention
  • Court-annexed mediation programs
  • Differentiated case management based on complexity

Parties seeking to minimize the duration of their divorce should consider:

  • Utilizing alternative dispute resolution methods
  • Promptly complying with disclosure requirements
  • Focusing on settlement of non-contentious issues
  • Considering collaborative divorce approaches

The statutory waiting period in New York following service of divorce papers is 40 days before the case can proceed to judgment, even in uncontested matters.

How Long Does New York County Keep Divorce Records?

New York County maintains divorce records according to a structured retention schedule established by the New York State Unified Court System and the New York State Archives. These retention periods ensure the preservation of important legal documents while managing storage resources effectively.

The retention schedule for divorce records in New York County is as follows:

  1. Divorce Judgments and Decrees:

  2. Divorce Case Files (complete files):

    • Retention period: 25 years from date of disposition
    • After 25 years: Transferred to the New York State Archives for selective retention
    • Exception: Cases deemed historically significant are retained permanently

  3. Divorce Certificates:

    • Retention period: Permanent
    • Maintained by both the New York County Clerk and the New York State Department of Health
    • Available from the Department of Health for divorces granted from 1963 onward

  4. Divorce Indexes:

    • Retention period: Permanent
    • Format: Both physical and electronic indexes are maintained
    • Public access: Available for searching at the New York County Clerk's Office

  5. Supporting Documentation:

    • Financial affidavits: 25 years
    • Motions and interim orders: 25 years
    • Transcripts: 25 years
    • Discovery materials: 10 years after case disposition

For divorces granted prior to current electronic record-keeping (generally pre-1980), the New York County Clerk's Office maintains:

  • Bound volumes of divorce judgments
  • Microfilm records of case files
  • Card indexes of parties' names

Pursuant to New York Judiciary Law § 89, the Chief Administrator of the Courts has established these retention schedules in consultation with the State Archives to ensure appropriate preservation of court records.

Individuals seeking older divorce records should contact:

New York County Clerk's Office - Records Management
60 Centre Street, Room 103B
New York, NY 10007
(646) 386-5080
New York County Clerk

How To Get a Divorce In New York County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in New York County must follow specific procedures established by the New York Domestic Relations Law. The process varies depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested.

For Uncontested Divorces:

  1. Determine Eligibility: Verify that residency requirements are met under New York Domestic Relations Law § 230, which requires either:

    • Both spouses are residents at the time of filing and the grounds occurred in New York
    • Either spouse has been a resident for at least one year and either the marriage occurred in New York, the couple lived in New York as married, or the grounds occurred in New York
    • Either spouse has been a resident for at least two years prior to filing

  2. Prepare Required Forms: Complete the uncontested divorce packet available from:

New York County Supreme Court
60 Centre Street
New York, NY 10007
(646) 386-3025
New York State Courts DIY Forms

  1. File Documents: Submit completed forms to:

New York County Supreme Court Clerk's Office
60 Centre Street, Room 116
New York, NY 10007
(646) 386-3025
New York County Supreme Court

  1. Pay Filing Fees: Current index number fee is $210, with additional fees for subsequent filings. Fee waivers are available for eligible individuals.

  2. Serve Documents: Arrange for proper service of the Summons and Complaint on the defendant spouse.

  3. Complete Additional Paperwork: After service, file proof of service and remaining judgment documents.

  4. Judgment Processing: The court reviews the paperwork and, if approved, issues a judgment of divorce.

For Contested Divorces:

  1. Consult an Attorney: Due to complexity, legal representation is strongly recommended.

  2. File and Serve Initial Papers: File a Summons with Notice or Summons and Complaint.

  3. Request for Judicial Intervention (RJI): File an RJI after service to have the case assigned to a judge.

  4. Preliminary Conference: Attend the initial court appearance to establish a discovery schedule.

  5. Discovery Process: Exchange financial information and other relevant evidence.

  6. Settlement Negotiations: Attempt to resolve disputed issues through negotiation or mediation.

  7. Trial (if necessary): Present evidence and testimony before a judge if settlement is not reached.

  8. Judgment: The court issues a judgment of divorce incorporating all decisions on disputed issues.

New York County offers resources for self-represented litigants at:

New York County Supreme Court Help Center
60 Centre Street, Room 116
New York, NY 10007
(646) 386-3025
New York Courts Help Centers

Operating hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (excluding court holidays)

How To Get Divorce Papers In New York County

Individuals seeking to initiate divorce proceedings in New York County can obtain the necessary forms through several official channels. The New York State Unified Court System provides standardized divorce papers that comply with state requirements.

In-Person Options:

  1. New York County Supreme Court Help Center:

New York County Supreme Court Help Center
60 Centre Street, Room 116
New York, NY 10007
(646) 386-3025
New York Courts Help Centers

Operating hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (excluding court holidays)

Services provided:

  • Free divorce packet distribution
  • Assistance with form completion (not legal advice)
  • Review of completed forms for procedural compliance
  • Information about filing procedures
  1. New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) Legal Clinic:

NYLAG at New York County Family Court
60 Lafayette Street
New York, NY 10013
(212) 613-5000
New York Legal Assistance Group

Services provided:

  • Free divorce packets
  • Limited legal assistance for eligible individuals
  • Referrals to pro bono attorneys

Online Options:

  1. New York State Courts DIY (Do-It-Yourself) Forms program:

    • Visit the NYS Courts DIY Forms website
    • Select the appropriate divorce form program
    • Answer guided interview questions
    • Generate completed, court-ready forms
    • Print forms for filing

  2. New York State Unified Court System Website:

    • Access the Divorce Forms page
    • Download PDF forms with instructions
    • Forms available include:
      • Summons with Notice
      • Summons and Complaint
      • Affidavit of Service
      • Notice of Appearance
      • Affidavit of Defendant
      • Financial disclosure forms

  3. New York State Courts Electronic Filing System (NYSCEF):

    • Registered attorneys and authorized non-attorneys can access forms through the NYSCEF website
    • E-filing is available for divorce cases in New York County

All divorce papers must be completed in English. Translation services for non-English speakers are available through the court's Office of Language Access:

Office of Language Access
60 Centre Street, Room 158
New York, NY 10007
(646) 386-5670
NYS Courts Language Access

Lookup Divorce Records in New York County

Divorce Record · NYC311

Other Categories in New York
Criminal Records Court Records Inmate Records Arrest records Warrant Search Property Records Divorce Records