How to Look Up Divorce Records in California

Divorce agreements and related court documents are part of public record in the State of California. If you need to look up, access or request copies of certain divorce records, you can typically do so online in Los Angeles County. However, there are circumstances where you may need to contact the courthouse or visit in person. 

Are Divorce Records Available to the Public?

Yes, divorce records are generally made public in California under state law. The California Rules of Court state that “all electronic records must be made reasonably available to the public in some form, except sealed or confidential records.”Anyone can look up a record of a finalized divorce and learn details such as which county the divorce was filed in and the names of the parties involved. 

However, typically only the final divorce order will be made public. Sensitive documents, such as financial disclosures, are redacted or sealed. The details of a divorce will also remain private if the case reaches a settlement rather than going to court. Reach out to our divorce lawyer in Los Angeles for assistance.

How to Look Up Divorce Records in Los Angeles County

California has online tools available to make looking up divorce records easier. There are electronic dockets that can be accessed by the public and include information such as the case number, the parties involved, the filing date, a list of pleadings or motions involved, and any orders issued by the divorce judge.

If you need more information than what is available online, you will have to contact or visit the courthouse where the divorce was filed. Take the following steps:

• Determine where the divorce was filed and contact the Superior Court in this county.
• Call the courthouse ahead of time to ask about their process for looking up divorce records or sending out copies.
• Visit the Clerk of the Superior Court in person or mail in a written records request.
• If desired, purchase copies of the divorce records. Certified records will cost more than public copies.

You will need to know basic information about the divorce case you are searching for, such as the names of both parties and the approximate date. You may also be asked to provide a photo ID if you are requesting sensitive records. Authorized copies will generally only be available to the lawyers and parties involved in the case.

Can You Seal Divorce Records in California?

A divorce case can involve many personal and sensitive details about your private life, relationship and family. This is why most couples prefer divorce settlements, which are kept private, over a trial that becomes part of public record. 

Under some circumstances, the parties involved can ask the court to seal divorce records or redact certain details. There must be a valid reason before the courts will agree, such as for an individual’s safety.

Note that certain sensitive information is automatically redacted in court records, such as bank account numbers and Social Security numbers. This is the law under California’s privacy rules. If both parties agree to keep certain information confidential, it can also be redacted.

If you need assistance looking up or obtaining copies of divorce records in California, or have questions about having your divorce records redacted or sealed, contact Boyd Law in Los Angeles for a legal consultation.