The Present Accessibility Of Online Divorce Records

Overview of Divorce Records Accessibility

Divorce records, like other vital records, are meticulously maintained and made accessible by the Bureau of Vital Statistics at the Texas Department of Health. These records, which span from July 1905 to the present, are crucial for various legal and personal reasons. Although the data is provided for free, a nominal fee is charged to cover the service costs.

Where to Obtain Official Copies

While the state repository can verify the occurrence of a divorce and inform you of the exact county where it was finalized, obtaining an authenticated copy of the divorce decree requires contacting the District Clerk’s office in the respective county. This step is essential for anyone needing an official document, particularly for legal proceedings.

Online Resources for Divorce Records

For convenience, Texas has made indexes of divorces from 1968-2001 available online. These records are invaluable for genealogical research or conducting thorough background checks on individuals. The ease of online access means that these records can be viewed from the comfort of one's home or office, saving both time and effort.

Sealing Divorce Records in Texas

Unlike criminal records, where expungement might erase history, sealing divorce records in Texas simply restricts public access but does not eliminate the records. Those wishing to seal their records must demonstrate that their privacy interest outweighs the public's right to access. This involves drafting a motion for non-disclosure and filing it with the family court that handled the divorce, followed by a public notice of intent and attending a motion hearing.

Steps to Seal Divorce Records

1. Draft and file a motion for non-disclosure with the relevant family court.
2. Publish a public notice of the intent to seal the records.
3. Provide copies of the notice to the court clerk and the clerk of the Supreme Court of Texas.
4. Attend the motion hearing.

Commercial Service Providers and Free Divorce Records

Numerous commercial service providers offer access to divorce records online, often for a minimal service fee. These services provide a convenient alternative to traditional methods, allowing individuals to obtain records quickly without significant expenses or waiting periods.

Interesting Statistics and Facts

• According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, there were over 75,000 divorces in Texas in 2019 alone. This high volume highlights the significant demand and public interest in accessing these records.
• A study by Bowling Green State University found that the divorce rate in the U.S. has been declining since the 1980s, yet Texas remains above the national average, further emphasizing the importance of accessible divorce records for legal and personal matters.

Conclusion

The accessibility of online divorce records has transformed the way individuals and professionals access these important documents. Whether for legal proceedings, genealogical research, or personal inquiries, the ability to quickly and efficiently obtain divorce records online is a valuable resource in our digital world. For more detailed information on accessing these records, visit the Texas Department of State Health Services or consult the official Texas court website.