Flagler County Florida divorce records are official court files that show when a marriage ended and what the court ordered. These records help people confirm a divorce, update legal documents, settle money matters, or check family history.
The Flagler County Clerk of the Circuit Court keeps the full court file. The Florida Department of Health handles state-level divorce certificates. People who need a copy can use the county clerk’s office, the court website, or the state’s online tools. This page shows how each method works, what documents you can request, who can request them, and what to expect during the process.
What Flagler County Divorce Records Contain
Flagler County divorce records are made of court papers filed during a dissolution of marriage case. The full file has the petition, financial forms, and the final judgment. Each paper has a job, and together they show the full timeline of the case. Some records are open to the public. Other records stay sealed by court order.
Court Filings and Final Judgment
The main paper in any divorce file is the Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage. This is the signed order that ends the marriage. It lists the names of both spouses, the case number, the judge’s name, and the date the judge signed it. It also lists terms for property, debts, and any other court orders.
Case Docket and Hearing Records
The docket is a list of every paper filed and every hearing held in the case. It shows dates, motions, and court actions. People use the docket to track what happened in the case. The docket is part of the public file and can be viewed through the clerk’s office.
Sealed and Restricted Records
Some records are sealed by the judge. Sealed records include adoption files, juvenile records, and sensitive financial details. A person who wants to open a sealed file must file a written request with the court. The judge then decides if the file should stay sealed.
Personal Information That Is Redacted
Florida law requires certain personal details to be removed from public copies. Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, and minor children’s names are removed. The clerk redacts this data before giving copies to the public.
Who Maintains Flagler County Divorce Records
Two main offices keep divorce records in Florida. The county clerk keeps the court file with all the detailed papers. The state health department keeps a shorter certificate that confirms the divorce. Each office has its own rules and fees for copies.
Flagler County Clerk of the Circuit Court
The Flagler County Clerk of the Circuit Court is the main source for divorce case files. This office keeps petitions, financial forms, motions, and final judgments. People can visit the clerk’s office in person, search online, or send a written request by mail. The clerk also handles certified copies that carry the court’s seal.
Florida Department of Health Bureau of Vital Statistics
The Florida Department of Health keeps statewide divorce certificates. These are short forms that show the names of both spouses, the date of divorce, and the county where it was granted. The state office can provide certified copies of these certificates for legal use.
Florida Courts E-Portal
The Florida Courts E-Portal is a statewide system where people can search court cases in many counties. Flagler County is part of this system for some types of searches. Users can search by name, case number, or filing date. The portal shows basic case data and links to filed papers.
How to Search Flagler County Divorce Records Online
Online search is the fastest way to find a divorce case in Flagler County. Users can check if a case exists before they visit the clerk’s office. The search tools show names, case numbers, and filing dates. Some tools also link to scanned court papers.
Flagler County Official Records Search
The Flagler County Clerk runs an online records search on its website. Users can search by name, date range, or document type. Divorce judgments appear under the category for family court records. The search results show a brief case summary and a list of filed papers.
Using the Florida Courts E-Portal
The Florida Courts E-Portal allows users to search court cases across many Florida counties. Users enter a name, case number, or filing date. The portal shows case status, hearing dates, and a list of filed documents. Not all counties upload every paper, so users may still need to contact the clerk for full copies.
What You Need Before You Search
Before you start a search, gather the details you have. A full legal name helps narrow the results. A date range helps when names are common. A case number gives the most accurate search. More details lead to faster and clearer results.
- Full legal name of either spouse
- Approximate year of the divorce
- Case number if known
- Type of record needed, such as a final judgment or a full case file
How to Request Certified Divorce Records by Mail or In Person
People who cannot search online can request records by mail or in person. The clerk’s office accepts written requests with the right details and fees. In-person requests are faster because staff can search the records while the person waits. Mail requests take longer due to processing time.
In-Person Requests at the Clerk’s Office
Visit the Flagler County Clerk’s office during business hours. Bring a valid photo ID. Fill out a records request form at the public counter. Pay the copy fee at the cashier window. Staff will pull the file and make the copies while you wait, or within a short time.
Mail Requests and Required Documents
Mail requests must include a signed written request, a copy of a valid photo ID, and the correct fee by check or money order. The request should list both names, the case number if known, and the year of divorce. Mail the request to the clerk’s office address. Allow time for processing and return mail.
Fees for Certified and Plain Copies
The clerk charges a fee for each page copied. Certified copies cost more because they carry the court seal and a clerk’s signature. Plain copies are cheaper but cannot be used for legal filings. The fee list is posted on the clerk’s website.
| Record Type | Average Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Plain Copy per Page | $1.00 | Same day |
| Certified Copy of Final Judgment | $7.00 plus per page | 1 to 3 business days |
| Full Case File Copy | Varies by page count | 3 to 7 business days |
| Non-Certified Search Confirmation | $5.00 | Same day |
How to Request Divorce Certificates from the State
State divorce certificates are short records that confirm a divorce took place. These are different from the full court file. The Florida Department of Health issues these certificates for people who need proof of divorce for name changes, benefits, or other legal matters.
Who Can Request a State Divorce Certificate
Florida law limits who can order a divorce certificate. The people who can order one include either spouse listed on the record, an adult child of either spouse, a parent or guardian, a legal representative, or someone with a court order. Each request must show the requester’s relationship to the record.
How to Order from the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics
The Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics accepts orders online, by mail, and in person. The online service is the fastest method. Mail orders require a signed application, a copy of a valid ID, and the correct fee. In-person orders are handled at the state office in Jacksonville.
Documents Required for State Certificate Requests
Each request must include a completed application form, a copy of a valid photo ID, and the correct fee. The application must list the full names of both spouses, the date of divorce, and the county where it was granted. The state office will reject incomplete requests.
- Completed Florida divorce certificate application
- Copy of valid photo ID
- Proof of relationship to the record
- Fee paid by check, money order, or credit card
Common Reasons People Request Flagler County Divorce Records
People request divorce records for many personal, legal, and financial reasons. Some need a certified copy for a name change at the Social Security office. Others need a copy for a bank, a new marriage license, or an immigration case. Each reason may call for a different type of copy.
Name Changes After Divorce
A certified copy of the final judgment is used to change a last name at the Social Security Administration and the DMV. The judgment must show the name change order. Most Florida divorce judgments include this order.
Remarriage and Marriage License Applications
People who plan to remarry may need to show proof that a prior divorce is final. Some states and counties ask for a divorce certificate or certified copy of the final judgment before issuing a new marriage license.
Bank, Loan, and Financial Account Updates
Banks and lenders may ask for a divorce judgment when removing a former spouse from an account or loan. The judgment shows who is responsible for each debt after the divorce.
Genealogy and Family History Research
Genealogy researchers use divorce records to build family trees. Old divorce cases from the early 1900s are often available on microfilm at the clerk’s office. Researchers can also use online indexes to find cases.
Background Checks for Employment or Licensing
Some employers and licensing boards ask about past court cases. A divorce case file may show up in a background check. People who want to review their own file can request a copy from the clerk.
What Flagler County Divorce Records Cannot Be Used For
Divorce records have limits on how they can be used. Some uses require extra legal steps. People should know the difference between a public record and a private court file.
Records Sealed by Court Order
Records sealed by a judge cannot be viewed without a court order. A person must file a written motion and explain why the file should be opened. The judge reviews the motion before any records are released.
Adoption and Birth Record Updates
A divorce record does not change a birth certificate. People who want to update a birth certificate after a divorce must file a separate request with the state vital records office. A divorce judgment alone does not update a birth record.
Limits on Use for Credit or Tenant Screening
Divorce records are public, but the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act limits how they can be used by tenant screening companies and credit bureaus. Not every screening service is allowed to use court records against an applicant.
Flagler County Clerk of Court Contact Details
The Flagler County Clerk of the Circuit Court is the main office for divorce records in Flagler County. The office is open to the public during regular business hours. People can visit, call, or send mail to the office.
Office Location and Address
The Flagler County Clerk’s office is located at 1769 East Moody Boulevard, Bunnell, Florida 32110. The building is near downtown Bunnell. Public parking is available near the front entrance.
Phone Number and Office Hours
The main phone number is (386) 313-4400. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The office is closed on weekends and state holidays. Recording hours apply for some filings.
Mailing Address for Written Requests
Written record requests can be mailed to Flagler County Clerk of Court, Attention: Records Department, 1769 East Moody Boulevard, Bunnell, FL 32110. The mailing address is the same as the office address.
Website and Online Search Portal
The Flagler County Clerk’s website is flaglerclerk.com. The website has an online records search tool, forms, fee schedules, and contact details. The website is the fastest way to start a search before visiting the office.
Tips for a Faster Record Request
A few simple steps can speed up a record request. Accurate details help the clerk find the right file. A clear written request lowers the chance of errors. Paying the correct fee avoids delays.
Double-Check Names and Dates
Spelling errors and wrong dates slow down a search. Check every name against a legal document before you submit the request. Use the full legal name as shown on the marriage record.
Call Before You Visit
Call the clerk’s office before you go in person. Staff can tell you if the record is on file and what fees to bring. A short phone call can save a long trip.
Order Multiple Copies at Once
Certified copies are cheaper when ordered in bulk. If you need copies for several agencies, order them all at the same time. Each certified copy has its own fee.
Keep a Copy of Your Request
Always keep a copy of your written request and your payment record. If the clerk needs more details, your copy will show what you sent. This speeds up any follow-up.
FAQ About Flagler County Divorce Records
The questions below cover the most common issues people face when they search for divorce records in Flagler County. Each answer explains the law, the process, and the time it takes to get the record you need.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Certified Divorce Copy?
A certified copy of a Flagler County divorce judgment usually takes one to three business days when ordered in person. Mail requests can take one to three weeks depending on postal service and processing time. Online orders through the state vital records office can take five to ten business days. The clerk cannot rush a certified copy because each copy must be stamped and signed.
Are Flagler County Divorce Records Public?
Yes. Most divorce records in Flagler County are public under Florida law. The public can view the docket, the petition, and the final judgment. The clerk removes personal details like Social Security numbers and minor children’s names before giving copies to the public. Sealed records are the only exception. Sealed files require a court order to open.
Can I Get a Divorce Record if I Was Not Part of the Case?
Yes. A member of the public can request a copy of a Flagler County divorce record even if they were not part of the case. The clerk will give a copy with redacted personal details. People who want full access to unredacted records must file a motion with the court and explain why they need the full file.
What Is the Difference Between a Divorce Certificate and a Divorce Decree?
A divorce certificate is a short state form that confirms a divorce took place. It lists the names, the date, and the county. A divorce decree or final judgment is the full court order that ends the marriage and lists all the court terms. The certificate is used for quick proof. The decree is used for legal and financial matters.
Can I Find Old Divorce Records From the 1900s?
Yes. Old Flagler County divorce cases from the early and mid-1900s are kept by the clerk. Some older files are stored on microfilm. Researchers can visit the clerk’s office to view microfilm. The clerk can also search older indexes by name and year. The fee for older records follows the same price list as new records.
Do I Need a Lawyer to Get a Divorce Record?
No. A lawyer is not required to get a copy of a divorce record in Flagler County. Any member of the public can file a records request. A lawyer is only needed if you want to open a sealed file or challenge a redaction. For most people, the clerk’s office handles the request without legal help.
What Happens if the Case Number Is Unknown?
If you do not know the case number, the clerk can search by name. A name search works best when the requester knows the full legal name and the approximate year of the divorce. Common names may require a date range to narrow the search. The clerk charges a small fee for a name search that does not return a file.