Monroe County Florida Divorce Records are public court files that show when marriages ended in Monroe County. The county covers the Florida Keys, including Key West, Marathon, Islamorada, and Tavernier.
People search these records for legal proof, name changes, remarriage, and financial matters. This page covers how to search, request, and use Monroe County divorce records from local and state offices in 2026.
What Monroe County Divorce Records Contain
Monroe County divorce records include every paper filed in a dissolution of marriage case. These files sit at the Monroe County Clerk of Court in Key West. A complete file includes the petition, financial forms, child support documents, and the final judgment. Each paper carries a stamp showing the filing date and the judge’s signature line. The Clerk’s office keeps these files in both paper and digital formats for recent years.
Full Court Case Files
The full case file holds the entire history of the divorce. This includes the initial petition, the response, financial affidavits, parenting plans, and settlement agreements. Motions filed during the case are part of the file too. Every court order and hearing note sits in this same packet. The final judgment appears at the end with the judge’s signature.
Divorce Certificates from the State
A divorce certificate is a shorter document. The Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics issues these certificates. The certificate shows the names of both spouses, the date of the divorce, and the county where the court granted it. A certificate does not include the terms of the divorce. It only proves the marriage ended.
Final Judgments of Divorce
The final judgment is the most requested document. It ends the marriage and lists all court orders about property, children, and support. Banks, government agencies, and other courts usually require a certified copy of this document. The Clerk stamps each certified copy with a raised seal to prove authenticity.
Who Maintains These Records
Two agencies keep Monroe County divorce records. The first is the Monroe County Clerk of Court. This office holds every paper from divorce cases filed in the county. The second is the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics. This state office keeps a summary record of every divorce in Florida.
Monroe County Clerk of Court
The Clerk of Court for Monroe County is Kevin Madok. His office sits at 500 Whitehead Street in Key West. A branch office operates in Marathon at 3117 Overseas Highway. The Clerk handles all filings, court records, and certified copy requests. The office has served Monroe County since the county formed.
Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics
The Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics started keeping statewide divorce records in June 1927. The Bureau sits in Jacksonville at 1217 Pearl Street. It handles all statewide certificate requests. The Bureau works with the Florida Department of Health. Records before 1927 may exist only at the county level.
How the Monroe County Court System Works
All divorce cases in Monroe County go through the 16th Judicial Circuit Court. This circuit covers only Monroe County. The court hears family law cases including divorce, paternity, and adoption. The court works under Florida law and Chapter 61 of the Florida Statutes.
The 16th Judicial Circuit Explained
The 16th Judicial Circuit Court serves Monroe County alone. The main courthouse is in Key West. A second courthouse operates in Marathon for the upper Keys. All family law cases file in this circuit. The Clerk assigns each case a number starting with “DR” for domestic relations.
Case Numbers and Filings
Every divorce case receives a case number at filing. The number stays the same from start to finish. People who know the case number save time on record requests. The Clerk uses this number to pull the file. Case numbers show up on the online search tool for recent cases.
Final Judgment Process
The case ends when the judge signs the final judgment. This can happen after a trial or after both sides agree. Once signed, the marriage is legally over. The Clerk files the signed judgment into the case record. A certified copy becomes available the next business day.
How to Search Monroe County Divorce Records
Three ways exist to search Monroe County divorce records. You can search online, visit the Clerk’s office, or send a mail request. Each way works for different needs. The online search works best for recent cases. The Clerk’s office helps with older files from the 1970s and 1980s.
Online Court Record Search
The Monroe County Clerk’s website has a public records search tool. You can search by name, date range, or case number. The tool shows case details but not full documents. Older cases before 2000 may not appear online. The search itself is free. Copy fees apply for documents.
In-Person Searches at the Clerk’s Office
Visiting the Clerk’s office in Key West helps with hard cases. Staff can search paper files from older years. They can also help fill out forms for certified copies. Office hours run Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Bring a photo ID. Staff may ask for your relationship to the case.
Information Needed Before Searching
Have this information ready before any search:
- Full legal names of both spouses
- Date of birth for both spouses
- Approximate year of divorce
- Case number if you have it
- Whether you need a certified copy
Requesting Certified Copies of Monroe County Divorce Records
Certified copies carry a raised seal from the Clerk. Courts, banks, and government agencies accept only certified copies. Plain copies work for personal use. The Clerk charges different fees for each type of document.
How to Order Certified Copies
Three options exist for ordering certified copies:
- Order online through the Clerk’s website
- Visit the Clerk’s office in Key West or Marathon
- Send a mail request with payment
Each method needs a signed application. Mail orders also need a self-addressed stamped envelope for the return.
Fees for Monroe County Divorce Records
The Clerk charges for copies based on the type. Plain copies cost less than certified copies. Extra pages add to the total. The table below shows current fees for common requests.
| Record Type | Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Online name search | No cost | Instant |
| Plain copy | $1.00 per page | Same day |
| Certified copy | $7.00 first copy | 1-2 business days |
| Each extra certified page | $2.00 | 1-2 business days |
| Mail search fee | $2.00 | 5-10 business days |
| Rush certified copy | Extra fee | Same day |
Fees may change over time. Always check the Clerk’s website for current prices before sending payment.
Payment Methods Accepted
The Monroe County Clerk accepts cash, checks, money orders, and major credit cards for in-person visits. Mail orders should use checks or money orders. Do not send cash through the mail. Online orders accept credit and debit cards only.
Florida Statewide Divorce Certificate Requests
The Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics issues certified copies of divorce certificates for all Florida counties. These certificates work for legal proof across the United States. The Bureau handles requests online, by mail, and in person at the Jacksonville office.
The Bureau of Vital Statistics Role
The Bureau of Vital Statistics sits inside the Florida Department of Health. The Bureau started keeping divorce records in June 1927. The office is in Jacksonville. It handles statewide vital records including births, deaths, marriages, and divorces. The Bureau works with all county Clerks across Florida.
How to Request a State Certificate
Three ways exist to request a Florida divorce certificate:
- Order online at the Florida Department of Health website
- Download the application form and mail it
- Visit the Jacksonville office in person
Online orders process fastest. Mail orders take more time but cost less than online orders.
State Certificate Fees and Times
The Bureau charges $10 for a basic certificate request by mail. Online orders cost $17 with faster processing. Rush service is available for an extra fee. Standard mail orders take 2 to 4 weeks. Online orders ship within 3-5 business days after the office receives your request.
Common Reasons People Request These Records
People need Monroe County divorce records for many reasons. Each reason may need a different type of document. Knowing your purpose helps you get the right record the first time without extra trips or fees.
Name Changes After Divorce
A name change after divorce requires a certified copy of the final judgment. You take this to the Social Security Administration first. Then you update your driver’s license, bank accounts, and passport. Some offices accept the state divorce certificate. Others require the full decree with the judge’s signature.
Property and Financial Matters
Banks and mortgage companies need certified copies of the divorce decree. This proves how property was divided. Retirement accounts also need a certified copy called a QDRO. Real estate transfers often require certified records too.
Remarriage and Family Law
Most states require proof of divorce before allowing remarriage. Florida requires a certified copy of the final judgment. Insurance companies need these records to update coverage. New family law cases may also require certified copies of past divorce records.
Document Authentication and Apostille
Records used outside the United States may need extra authentication. This process is called an apostille. The Florida Department of State handles apostille requests. An apostille proves the document is real for use in other countries that signed the Hague Convention.
When You Need an Apostille
An apostille is required when using Florida divorce records in countries that signed the Hague Convention. The Florida Secretary of State issues apostilles. The process takes several weeks. Apostille fees add to the total cost of the record request.
Apostille Request Process
To get an apostille, you submit the certified divorce record to the Florida Department of State. Include a cover letter and payment. The Department stamps the document with an apostille seal. The process usually takes 2 to 4 weeks from the date they receive your request.
Monroe County Office Contact Details
Three main offices handle Monroe County divorce records. The county Clerk of Court handles local records. The Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics handles state certificates. The Florida Department of State handles apostilles for records used abroad.
Monroe County Clerk of Court
The Monroe County Clerk of Court serves all divorce record requests for the county. Here are the office details:
Office: Monroe County Clerk of Court
Address: 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 294-4641
Website: www.monroecounty-fl.gov
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Marathon Branch: 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050
Branch Phone: (305) 289-6088
Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics
The state office handles certificate requests for all Florida counties. Use the contact details below to reach them:
Office: Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics
Address: 1217 Pearl Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Phone: (904) 359-6900
Website: www.floridahealth.gov/certificates-records
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Florida Department of State for Apostilles
This office handles apostille authentication when divorce records go to other countries:
Office: Florida Department of State
Address: 500 South Bronough Street, Tallahassee, FL 32399
Phone: (850) 245-6500
Website: dos.fl.gov
Tips for Faster Record Requests
Follow these tips to avoid delays and get your records the first time you ask:
- Use full legal names as they appeared on the divorce
- Include the case number when possible
- Send exact payment for mail orders
- Add a self-addressed stamped envelope
- Check the website for current fees before sending
- Bring photo ID for in-person visits
- Allow extra time for older records
Mistakes to Avoid
Common mistakes slow down record requests. Skip these errors to save time and money:
- Using nicknames instead of legal names
- Forgetting to mark certified or plain copy
- Sending cash through the mail
- Missing the signer’s name on the application
- Requesting from the wrong office
- Skipping the relationship information field
Privacy and Redaction Rules
Florida public records laws allow most divorce records to be viewed. Sensitive details are removed before copies are released. Removed items include Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, and minor children’s full names. The Clerk follows Chapter 119 of Florida law when releasing copies. Sealed records require a court order to access.
Source Image for Monroe County Divorce Records
The image below shows the main Florida vital statistics source page that supports requests for Monroe County Florida Divorce Records.
Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ section covers common questions people ask about Monroe County Florida Divorce Records. Each answer below gives clear, practical details so you can plan your request the right way the first time. The questions focus on real issues like wait times, fees, document types, and who can request these records.
How long does it take to get a Monroe County divorce record?
Processing time depends on how you order. In-person requests at the Clerk’s office usually finish the same day for plain copies and within 1-2 business days for certified copies. Mail requests take 5 to 10 business days after the office receives your letter. Online requests through the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics take 3 to 5 business days for standard service. Rush service is available for an extra fee through both the county and the state. Always plan ahead if you have a deadline for a name change, loan, or other legal matter. Adding extra time for older records helps avoid stress.
What is the difference between a divorce certificate and a decree?
A divorce certificate is a short state document that proves a divorce happened. The certificate shows full names, the divorce date, and the county where the court granted the divorce. The Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics issues these certificates. A divorce decree is the full court order from the judge. It includes all the terms of the divorce, like property division, child custody, child support, and alimony. Most legal and financial matters need the certified decree. The certificate only proves the marriage ended. Banks, the Social Security office, and insurance companies often require the full decree.
Can I search divorce records for free in Monroe County?
Yes. The Monroe County Clerk offers a free online search tool at the county website. You can search by name, date range, or case number. The search shows basic case details like filing date, case number, and party names. You still need to pay for copies of the actual documents. Online searches work best for cases filed after 2000. Older cases may need an in-person visit to the Clerk’s office in Key West. The free search saves time but does not give you the full document set.
Who can request a Monroe County divorce record?
Most divorce records in Florida are public under Chapter 119 of Florida law. Any adult can request a copy of a public divorce record. You do not need to be named in the case. Some records are sealed by court order. Sealed records require a court order to open. Certified copies still need your signature and proof of identity. The Clerk may ask for your relationship to the people in the case. Common requesters include former spouses, lawyers, family members, and researchers.
Are older Monroe County divorce records available online?
Records from recent years are usually online through the Clerk’s search tool. Records from the 1990s and 2000s may also be online. Older records from the 1970s and 1980s often only exist in paper files at the Clerk’s office. Records before 1970 may need extra time to locate. The Bureau of Vital Statistics has statewide records only from June 1927 forward. For records before that date, check local church and county archives. A phone call to the Clerk’s office can confirm if your record exists and how to get it.
Can I get a divorce record from another county through Monroe County?
No. Each Florida county only holds its own divorce case files. You must contact the Clerk’s office in the county where the divorce was filed. State certificates from the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics work for any Florida county. So if you need proof of a divorce from another county, order a state certificate. The Bureau can search all Florida records regardless of which county filed the original case. This makes statewide certificates useful when you do not know which county handled the divorce.
What happens if I do not know the exact year of the divorce?
Give an approximate year range when you do not know the exact year. The Clerk’s office can search across a range of years. Wider ranges take more time to process. Narrowing the date helps speed up the search. Names and locations also help narrow the search. The Bureau of Vital Statistics may also be able to search statewide records if the county is unknown. Call the Clerk’s office for tips on searching when details are limited. They handle missing information requests every week.
Monroe County Florida Divorce Records sit at the county Clerk’s office in Key West and at the state Bureau of Vital Statistics in Jacksonville. Use the contact details above to start your request today. Gather names, dates, and the case number before you call. Certified copies work for most legal and financial needs.