Washington D.C. divorce records
How to Access Divorce Records in Washington D.C.
Who would have thought that one day, divorce would be almost as common as marriage? But sadly, that is the reality today. And this is true not just in the US, or in Washington D.C., but this trend is being noticed all over the world, as well. According to statistics, about 1 in every 3 marriages is breaking up now. However, in reality, it is much more than that, because many people who are getting divorced, are marrying again, and many of them are getting divorced a second time. So the percentage would probably be closer to 40 or even more perhaps, if these second divorces are taken into consideration.
All this is being mentioned here to stress the importance of providing accurate information when you are applying for your Washington D.C. divorce records. Do remember that, like the other states in the US, the database of divorce records in D.C. is getting fatter too, and thus, if you are not furnishing accurate information, there is no way you can get the record you need. And of course, you should try your best to provide a lot of information so that the actual search is easy.
A divorce record is essentially a record of the event of divorce of the married couple. The record includes information such as the names of the hubby and wife, date as well as the place of divorce. It also often includes information on the settlement arrived at. The information may be filed by the federal, state of the local government. But in D.C. it is the Superior Court that is responsible for maintaining the record. The court has been maintaining all divorce records since September 16th 1956.
How to Access the Divorce Record in Washington D.C.?
Since it is the Superior Court that maintains the record in D.C., it is to this office that you must send your application. Write a written application, and mention the name of both people in marriage or divorce, the name of the wife before marriage, and the marriage date. You must mention how you are related to the individuals, if you are not one of them, and should also include the purpose of wanting to access the record with the application.
Once you have mentioned all this, you must put your signature in it. You have to pay the fee of $6.59 with your application. You can cut a check, or you can send a money order towards the fee.
Having done all this, it is now time to mail the application to the office. You can of course go to the office personally and hand it over yourself too.
D.C. Superior Court
(202) 879-1261
Be prepared to wait for a while once your application has been accepted. The office will conduct a search and will send you the report once it has been found. It can take anything between 3 to 6 weeks. If you wish to have the record quickly, you should visit the state website. But here, you won't get a certified copy of the Washington D.C. divorce record.
To obtain a Washington D.C. divorce certificate, follow these instructions:
Step 1.
A written request must be presented to the DC Superior Court. On your written request, include the full names of the husband and wife, wife's name prior to the marriage, and the date of the marriage.
Step 2.
Be sure to sign your request and include a search and copy fee of $6.59 by check or money order.
Step 3.
Mail your written request to the address below, or visit in person with your written request.
Mail your written request to:
D.C. Superior Court
500 Indiana Avenue, NW, Rm 4335
Washington, DC 20001
(202) 879-1261
Retrieving Washington D.C. Divorce Records
Divorce records are created when a couple files for dissolution of a marriage. The final document is filed with the courts and remains there on record. The divorce decree states not only the terms of the dissolution, but shows a record of who was divorced, when, and where. This information can be important for the divorced individuals, as well as a record for their children, future or past spouses, or other genealogical research purposes.
Where Washington D.C. Divorce Records Are Maintained
In Washington D.C., all records of divorce since September 16, 1956 are maintained with the DC Superior Court. Any request for a certified copy can be directed to this office.
What Information is Needed for a Divorce Record?
In order to make an accurate search for a divorce record, a written request must be presented with the names of the parties on the divorce decree, as well as the date of divorce.
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