Brevard County Florida divorce records are public court files held by the Brevard County Clerk of Court. People search these records to confirm a divorce, get a certified copy, or check case history.
This page explains how to search, request, and use divorce records in Brevard County. It covers online lookup, in-person requests, fees, legal limits, and common uses. The goal is to give you clear steps so you can get the right document without delays or mistakes.
What Are Brevard County Divorce Records?
Brevard County divorce records are the official court files for every divorce case filed in Brevard County, Florida. They include the case docket, the final judgment, and supporting papers. The Brevard County Clerk of Court keeps these records in paper and electronic form. The records are open to the public under Florida law, but some personal details may be hidden to protect privacy.
Types of Documents in a Divorce File
A divorce case file in Brevard County contains several different papers. Each one serves a separate purpose. Knowing the difference helps you request the right copy.
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- Case docket and hearing schedule
- Financial affidavits and property papers
- Final Judgment of Dissolution
- Court orders after the final judgment
Who Keeps the Records?
The Brevard County Clerk of Court is the official record keeper. The Clerk’s office handles all family law filings for the county. The main office is located at 400 South Street, Titusville, FL 32780. A satellite office also operates at the Moore Complex, 2825 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera, FL 32940. Both offices can help with divorce record requests during normal business hours.
How Florida Law Controls These Records
Florida state law sets the rules for divorce records in every county. These rules decide who can see the records, what gets hidden, and how long files are kept. Brevard County follows the same laws as the rest of Florida.
Florida Statute Chapter 61
Florida Statute Chapter 61 covers all family law cases, including divorce. It lists the legal reasons for divorce, how cases move through court, and what the final judgment must include. The Brevard County courts use Chapter 61 for every dissolution of marriage filed in the county.
Florida Statute Chapter 119
Florida Statute Chapter 119 is the public records law. It gives Florida residents the right to see and copy most government records. Divorce records fall under this rule, which means they are open unless a judge orders them sealed. Sealed records can only be seen by court order.
When Records Are Sealed
A judge may seal part or all of a divorce file in special cases. This often happens when sensitive details like Social Security numbers or bank account data need protection. If a record is sealed, the Clerk’s office cannot release it without a court order. You can ask the Clerk if a record is sealed before placing your request.
How to Search Brevard County Divorce Records
You can search for Brevard County divorce records in three ways: online, by phone, or in person. Each method works for different needs. Online search is best for quick checks. In-person visits help with complex requests or certified copies.
Online Search Through the Clerk Website
The Brevard County Clerk of Court runs an online records portal. You can search by name, case number, or date range. The portal shows case status, hearing dates, and a list of filed papers. To search, go to the Clerk’s official website and click on the records search tool.
The online system is useful for checking if a case exists and seeing the case number. It also shows the judge assigned and the next hearing date. However, the full text of court orders may not appear online. You may need to request a copy to see the full document.
Phone and Email Requests
You can call the Clerk’s office at (321) 637-2000 for basic record checks. Staff can confirm if a case is filed and give you the case number. They cannot give legal advice over the phone. Email requests through the public records portal also work for simple questions.
In-Person Visits
Visiting the Clerk’s office in person gives you the most options. Staff can search the full archives, pull older files, and process certified copy requests on the spot. The Titusville office handles most family law records. Bring a photo ID and any case details you already have.
What You Need Before Requesting Records
You need certain details to make a record request work. The more you provide, the faster the Clerk can find the right file. Missing details can lead to delays or wrong matches.
Required Information
The Clerk’s office needs basic facts to start a search. These facts help narrow down the right case among thousands of files. Always prepare this list before contacting the Clerk.
- Full legal name of both spouses at the time of divorce
- Approximate year the divorce was filed or finalized
- Case number if you know it
- Type of copy you need (plain or certified)
- Your relationship to the case (party, attorney, or general public)
Helpful but Not Required Details
Some extra details speed up the search. These are not required but can help when names are common or cases are old. The Clerk may ask for these if the basic search returns too many results.
- Date of birth for one or both spouses
- Last known address in Brevard County
- Name of the judge who handled the case
- Attorney names listed on the case
Certified Copies vs Plain Copies
Brevard County offers two types of divorce record copies. The type you need depends on how you plan to use the document. Most legal agencies and government offices require certified copies.
What Is a Certified Copy?
A certified copy is a copy of the court document with a raised seal or stamp from the Clerk’s office. It proves the document is a true copy of the original court file. Certified copies are needed for name changes, remarriage, insurance, immigration, and court filings in other states.
What Is a Plain Copy?
A plain copy is a regular photocopy or printout of the court document. It shows the same text but does not have the official seal. Plain copies work for personal records, genealogy research, or informal reference. They cost less than certified copies.
Which Type Do You Need?
Your choice depends on the purpose. Government agencies, banks, and courts almost always ask for certified copies. If you are unsure, ask the agency that needs the document before placing your order. Ordering the wrong type wastes time and money.
Costs and Fees for Divorce Records
The Brevard County Clerk charges fees for copies and certified documents. Fees are set by Florida law and are the same across all Florida counties. Payment methods include cash, check, money order, and credit or debit cards.
Standard Copy Fees
The Clerk charges per page for regular copies and a flat fee for certified copies. Current rates per Florida statute are listed below. Always check the Clerk’s website or call ahead to confirm the latest fees.
| Service Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Plain copy per page | $1.00 |
| Certified copy of divorce judgment | $7.00 |
| Additional certified copies (same document) | $3.50 each |
| Document search fee (no case located) | $2.00 |
| Expedited processing fee | Varies by request type |
Payment and Mailing Options
You can pay in person at the Clerk’s office with cash, card, or check. Mail requests must include a check or money order made out to the Brevard County Clerk of Court. Do not send cash by mail. Online payments are accepted through the Clerk’s online records portal for certain services.
Refund Rules
The Clerk does not refund fees for records that are found. If a search returns no results, the search fee still applies. Always double-check names and dates before placing your request to avoid wasted fees.
How to Request Divorce Records by Mail
Mail requests work well if you cannot visit in person. The Clerk processes mail requests in the order received. Processing time depends on the volume of requests and how easy the case is to locate.
Steps for a Mail Request
Mail requests need a clear written request, payment, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Following these steps helps the Clerk process your request without delay.
- Write a letter with both spouses’ full names and the year of divorce
- Include the case number if you have it
- State whether you need a plain or certified copy
- Include a check or money order for the total fee
- Add a self-addressed stamped envelope for return mail
- Mail the request to the Brevard County Clerk of Court, 400 South Street, Titusville, FL 32780
Mail Request Timeline
Mail requests usually take 5 to 10 business days to process. Older cases may take longer if the file is stored off-site. Certified copies are returned by mail unless you pay for in-person pickup. Tracking your return envelope helps you confirm delivery.
Online Request Through the Clerk Portal
The Brevard County Clerk offers an online portal for certain record requests. The portal lets you search, view case data, and order certified copies for some document types. This is the fastest option for most users.
How the Online Portal Works
You create an account on the Clerk’s official records portal. Then you search by name or case number. Once you find the right case, you can select the document and pay the fee online. The system emails you when the copy is ready for download or mail.
Limits of Online Requests
Online requests do not cover every document type. Some older files are not yet digitized. Sealed or restricted records cannot be ordered online. If you cannot find your case online, you may need to visit the Clerk’s office in person.
Using Divorce Records for Legal and Personal Needs
People request Brevard County divorce records for many reasons. Some need them for legal changes. Others need them for personal records. Knowing the common uses helps you request the correct document the first time.
Remarriage and Name Changes
If you plan to remarry, you must show proof that your prior divorce is final. Most states, including Florida, ask for a certified copy of the final divorce judgment. A name change after divorce also needs a certified copy to update your Social Security card, driver’s license, and bank accounts.
Financial and Property Matters
Divorce records can be needed to split retirement accounts, sell shared property, or update beneficiaries. Banks and financial institutions often ask for certified copies of the final judgment and property settlement. Keep certified copies in a safe place for future financial steps.
Genealogy and Family Research
Genealogy researchers use divorce records to confirm family ties, dates, and places. Older Brevard County divorce files from the 1900s are open to the public. Plain copies usually work for research, but certified copies are not needed unless required by an official archive.
Immigration and Federal Agencies
Federal agencies like USCIS may ask for a certified copy of a divorce judgment for immigration cases. The certified copy proves the legal end of a prior marriage. Submit the certified copy with your federal application and keep a plain copy for your own records.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Record requests do not always go smoothly. Common problems include wrong names, missing case numbers, and sealed files. Knowing these issues ahead of time saves frustration.
Name Changes and Spelling Errors
Names on older divorce files may not match current legal names. Maiden names, nicknames, or spelling differences can confuse a search. Try multiple spelling variations and search by year range if one search fails.
Files Stored Off-Site
Older divorce cases may be stored off-site at a record center. Pulling these files takes extra time. Allow 10 to 15 business days for very old case requests. Call the Clerk to confirm if a file is off-site before placing a mail order.
Sealed or Restricted Records
If a record is sealed, the Clerk cannot release it without a court order. You must file a motion with the court that handled the case. The court then decides whether to open the sealed record for your request.
Brevard County Clerk Contact Details
You can reach the Brevard County Clerk of Court through several channels. Use the contact details below for record requests, questions, and office visits.
Main Office Address and Phone
The main Clerk’s office is at 400 South Street, Titusville, FL 32780. The main phone line is (321) 637-2000. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The office closes on weekends and state holidays.
Satellite Office in Viera
The Viera office is at 2825 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera, FL 32940. This office handles some family law matters and can process record requests. Call ahead to confirm which records are available at this location before visiting.
Official Website and Records Portal
The Clerk’s official website is www.brevardclerk.us. The records portal for online searches and copy orders is also linked from this site. Public records requests can be submitted through brevardcountyclerkfl.nextrequest.com.
Frequently Asked Questions About Brevard County Divorce Records
These common questions cover the most frequent user needs and concerns. Each answer gives clear, direct facts based on current Florida law and Clerk procedures. Use these answers to plan your record request and avoid delays.
Are Brevard County divorce records free to view?
Basic case data is free to view through the Clerk’s online portal. You can see case status, hearing dates, and party names without paying. However, copies of the actual court documents cost a fee. Certified copies have an extra charge due to the official seal and signature added by the Clerk’s office.
How long does it take to get a certified divorce copy in Brevard County?
In-person requests for certified copies are often processed the same day. Online and mail requests usually take 5 to 10 business days. Older cases stored off-site may take longer. Plan ahead if you have a deadline for a legal or government agency.
Can I get a divorce record if I was not part of the case?
Yes. Divorce records are public under Florida law, so any Florida resident can request them. You do not need to be a spouse, attorney, or party to the case. The Clerk’s office will process your request as long as the file is not sealed by court order.
What is the difference between a divorce certificate and a divorce decree?
A divorce certificate is a short state-issued document that confirms the divorce. A divorce decree is the full court order that ends the marriage and lists terms like property division and custody. The Brevard County Clerk issues copies of the decree. State vital records offices issue certificates.
Can I search Brevard County divorce records by name for free?
Yes. The Clerk’s online portal lets you search by name at no cost. You can check if a case exists, see basic case data, and confirm the case number. You only pay when you order a copy of a document. The free search is a good first step before placing a paid copy order.
What if I cannot find the divorce record online?
If the online portal shows no results, the case may be too old, sealed, or stored off-site. Try a wider date range or alternate spellings. If the search still fails, visit the Clerk’s office in person or call (321) 637-2000 for help. Staff can check older archives that are not yet digitized.
Are online divorce record websites reliable for Florida cases?
Third-party websites may show basic data, but they often charge high fees and may not have full records. The official Brevard County Clerk website is the most reliable source. Always check the Clerk’s site first to avoid unnecessary fees and to make sure your copy is an official record.