How to Get a Copy of Your Divorce Papers in California

Why is it so difficult to obtain a copy of divorce papers? You’d think it would be a straightforward process, but many people find themselves hitting unexpected roadblocks. The trick is knowing where to start, and what specific documents you need—and this is where things often get tricky.

Start with the Basics: What Type of Copy Do You Need?

It’s essential to understand that there are two main types of divorce documents you might need: (1) the judgment of dissolution (this finalizes the divorce), and (2) various filings like petitions, responses, or custody orders. Each of these documents serves different purposes, and some are more relevant depending on your situation.

A certified copy of the judgment of dissolution is what you’ll most likely need for legal matters—such as name changes, remarriage, or updating Social Security records. If you just need something for personal reference or informal purposes, an uncertified copy might suffice. But knowing the difference could save you time and money.

Step 1: Determine the County Where the Divorce Was Filed

Your divorce papers are located in the courthouse of the county where the divorce was filed. If you can’t recall where this happened, look through any old correspondence or emails, or check your ex-partner’s address history at the time.

Here’s a table outlining the necessary steps based on your situation:

Situation	Next Step
Divorce was filed in a known county	Contact that county's superior court for further guidance
Unsure where the divorce was filed	Try searching online databases or contact the Department of Public Health
Need copies but cannot visit in person	Use online or mail-in request services provided by the court

Step 2: Visit the Courthouse (or Go Online)

Once you know the county, you can either visit the courthouse in person or use an online system. Most California counties offer an online portal where you can request copies of your divorce documents. However, keep in mind that online access may not cover all types of records, especially if the divorce occurred several years ago.

If visiting in person, be prepared for a wait time—depending on the backlog of requests and the specific county. You will need identification and possibly your case number. Many courthouses provide self-service kiosks, allowing you to search for your case and request copies directly.

Step 3: How Much Will It Cost?

Costs vary from county to county, but certified copies generally range from $15 to $50 per document. The table below outlines the general cost structure:

Type of Document	Certified Copy Cost	Uncertified Copy Cost
Judgment of Dissolution	$15 - $30	$5 - $10
Other Court Filings	$20 - $50	$5 - $15

Some counties may also charge an additional processing or handling fee if you’re requesting documents by mail or online.

Step 4: Special Situations: Sealed or Expunged Records

In some cases, divorce records may be sealed or expunged—meaning that not everyone can access them. This usually happens if the case involves minors, domestic abuse, or other sensitive matters. If your records are sealed, you may need a court order to access them. This process requires filing a motion with the court and explaining why you need the records.

If you're dealing with this situation, seek legal advice to understand your rights and the likelihood of obtaining the documents.

Step 5: Not in California? What to Do if You Live Out of State

If you’ve since moved out of California and need a copy of your divorce papers, don’t worry. Mail-in requests are accepted by most California courts. You’ll need to provide some basic information about your case, such as your full name, your ex-spouse’s name, and the date of the divorce (if known).

The process for out-of-state requests is typically straightforward, but remember to include a self-addressed stamped envelope and a money order or check for any applicable fees. Also, give extra time for the court to process your request and mail the documents back to you.

Step 6: Use a Third-Party Service

For those who are short on time or find the process too overwhelming, third-party services can help you obtain your divorce records. These services typically charge a premium for the convenience, but they handle all the paperwork and communication with the court. Be cautious of scams or non-reputable services—only use well-reviewed or recommended providers.

Now, here's where it gets tricky: Many people don’t realize that you must give accurate details to get the right records, or else you’ll face frustrating delays. If you're in a rush, consider expediting your request by contacting the court clerk and asking if faster options are available.

What Happens if You Lose Your Papers Again?

This is a scenario most of us never think about: What if you lose your divorce papers—again? The same steps will apply, but you might want to consider creating digital backups. Courts can be slow-moving bureaucracies, and requesting the same documents multiple times can lead to avoidable delays.

It's also useful to store certified copies in a safe place, like a safe deposit box or a fireproof home safe, to avoid this hassle in the future.

A Key Tip: Keep Your Case Number

One small yet crucial detail that will make the process smoother is knowing your case number. This is the unique identifier for your divorce case and is typically required when making a document request. You can find this on any prior communication from the court, such as notices or previous document copies. Without the case number, it may take longer for the court to locate your documents, especially if the divorce occurred years ago.

By keeping this number handy, you’re one step closer to fast-tracking your request.