A Faster Way To Acquire Florida Divorce Records This Year

Overview of Florida Divorce Records Accessibility

Divorce records, classified as public documents, are not always straightforward to obtain. Despite their public status, accessing these records can be cumbersome due to the decentralized nature of record-keeping across different states. In Florida, however, the process is centralized, making it somewhat easier to retrieve these documents.

Centralized Storage System

Since June 6, 1927, following the enactment of a specific law, both marriage and divorce records in Florida have been centrally stored at the State Office of Vital Statistics under the Florida Department of Health. This repository holds records dating back nearly a century, providing a comprehensive resource for those needing historical data.

High Volume of Records

Florida is known for its high divorce rate, ranking among the highest in the United States. With a population of approximately 21 million in 2021, the state sees a significant number of divorces annually. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Florida had a divorce rate of approximately 3.5 per 1,000 inhabitants in 2019, which underscores the demand for efficient record-keeping systems.

Requesting Divorce Records

Obtaining divorce records from the Florida Department of Health is straightforward, provided you can pay the nominal fee and supply the necessary information. Here’s how you can request these records:

1. Preparation: Gather all required information about the divorce record you seek.
2. Submission: Send a signed letter or complete an application form detailing your request.
3. Fees: Include a $5 processing fee. If the exact year of the divorce is unknown, specify a range of years for the search, with an additional $2 fee for each year searched.
4. Additional Copies: Request additional copies for $4 each if ordered simultaneously.

Processing Times and Expedited Options

Standard processing takes approximately 2 to 3 weeks. However, for urgent needs, the Bureau offers a RUSH service that processes requests within 3 working days, and an Express Delivery option for overnight service. These expedited services incur additional costs.

Challenges and Considerations

While the centralized system in Florida facilitates easier access to divorce records, several challenges persist:

• Privacy Concerns: Access to sensitive information is restricted to protect individuals' privacy, which can complicate the retrieval process.
• Interstate Communication: Lack of integration between states’ databases can delay or complicate obtaining records that involve multiple states.

Conclusion

Florida’s centralized system for storing divorce records simplifies the process for individuals seeking these documents. However, potential delays and additional fees for expedited services should be considered when planning your request. For more detailed information and to initiate a records request, visit the Florida Department of Health’s Bureau of Vital Statistics website.