Finding and obtaining divorce records in Louisiana requires understanding where these documents are stored, who can access them, and what steps you need to follow. Whether you need a copy of a divorce decree for legal purposes, remarriage, or personal records, Louisiana's system provides clear pathways to access these important documents.
Louisiana divorce records are public records maintained by the Clerk of Court in the parish where the divorce was granted. While basic information about divorce proceedings is available to the public, certified copies of divorce decrees have restricted access and are only available to specific individuals with legal standing.
A divorce decree represents the final court order that officially ends a marriage. This document includes important details such as property division, child custody arrangements, spousal support obligations, and child support requirements. The decree becomes the legal foundation for enforcing post-divorce obligations and rights.
Louisiana maintains these records through its parish-based court system, with each of the state's 64 parishes handling divorces filed within their jurisdiction. The Clerk of Court in each parish serves as the official record keeper for all divorce proceedings concluded in that area.
Types of Divorce Records Available
Louisiana provides different types of divorce-related documents depending on your needs and eligibility. Understanding the distinction between these record types helps ensure you request the correct documentation for your specific situation.
Certified Copies of Divorce Decrees
Certified copies represent the official version of your divorce decree with the court's raised seal. These documents carry full legal weight and are required for most official purposes such as remarriage, name changes, social security updates, or legal proceedings.
Only specific individuals can obtain certified copies, including the divorced parties themselves, their legal representatives, parents of the divorced parties, and other direct adult relatives. Each certified copy includes verification from the Clerk of Court that it represents a true and accurate copy of the original court record.
Informational Copies
Informational copies contain the same basic information as certified copies but lack the official raised seal. These copies are available to the general public and provide details about the divorce without carrying legal weight for official purposes.
Public access to informational copies reflects Louisiana's commitment to open government records while protecting the privacy interests of divorced individuals for official document use.
Where Divorce Records Are Maintained
Louisiana's decentralized court system means divorce records are stored at the parish level rather than in a single statewide database. Knowing which parish handled the divorce is essential for locating the correct records.
Major Parish | Primary Cities | Online Access Available |
Orleans Parish | New Orleans | Yes, through the court website |
East Baton Rouge Parish | Baton Rouge | Yes, electronic records are available |
Jefferson Parish | Metairie, Kenner | Yes, online search system |
Caddo Parish | Shreveport | Yes, clerk's online portal |
Each parish maintains its own record-keeping system, and procedures for accessing records may vary slightly between jurisdictions. Most larger parishes offer online search capabilities, while smaller parishes may require in-person or mail requests.
The Clerk of Court's office in each parish serves as the primary custodian of divorce records. These offices typically maintain records for all divorces granted within their jurisdiction, regardless of where the parties currently live.
Who Can Access Louisiana Divorce Records
Access to Louisiana divorce records depends on the type of copy requested and the relationship of the person making the request. The state balances public access to court proceedings with privacy protection for sensitive family information.
Certified Copy Access
• Divorced parties named in the decree • Parents of either divorced party • Adult children of the divorced parties • Legal representatives or attorneys acting on behalf of eligible parties
These restrictions ensure that official divorce documents remain secure while allowing access to those with legitimate legal interests in the records.
Public Information Access
Members of the general public can access basic information about divorce proceedings through court records searches. This includes case numbers, filing dates, and general case status information available through many parish court websites.
However, detailed financial information, custody arrangements, and other sensitive details may be redacted from publicly accessible versions to protect privacy interests.
Step-by-Step Process to Obtain Records
Obtaining Louisiana divorce records requires following specific procedures that vary slightly between parishes. Understanding the general process helps ensure your request is handled efficiently and correctly.
Identify the Correct Parish
The first step involves determining which parish granted the divorce. Louisiana divorces are filed in the parish where either spouse lived at the time of filing, or where they last lived together as a married couple.
If you're unsure which parish handled the divorce, you may need to contact several Clerk of Court offices or search online databases where available. Many parishes provide online search tools that can help locate case information.
Gather Required Information
Before requesting records, collect as much information as possible about the divorce:
Required Information | Optional but Helpful |
Full names of both parties | Case number |
Approximate date of divorce | Attorney names |
Parish where divorce occurred | Date of original filing |
Having complete information speeds up the search process and reduces the likelihood of delays or additional fees for extended searches.
Submit Your Request
Most parishes accept requests through multiple channels, including in-person visits, mail requests, or online submissions where available. Each method may have different processing times and fee structures.
In-person requests typically provide the fastest service, especially if you need immediate access to records. Mail requests may take several days or week,s depending on the parish's processing schedule and current workload.
Fees and Processing Times
Louisiana parishes charge fees for copies of divorce records, with costs varying between jurisdictions and copy types. Understanding fee structures helps you budget appropriately and choose the most cost-effective request method.
Standard Fee Structure
Most parishes charge between $5 and $25 for certified copies of divorce decrees. Additional copies of the same record typically cost less than the initial copy. Informational copies generally cost less than certified versions.
Some parishes offer expedited processing for additional fees, which can be helpful when you need records quickly for legal deadlines or other time-sensitive purposes.
Payment Methods
Payment options vary by parish but typically include cash, checks, money orders, and credit cards. Online requests usually require credit card payment, while mail requests often require money orders or certified checks.
Always verify current fees before submitting requests, as costs may change and some parishes charge additional fees for specific services like certified mail or expedited processing.
Online Access Options
Many Louisiana parishes provide online access to divorce records through their official websites. Digital access offers convenience and often faster results than traditional request methods.
Available Online Services
- Case searches by name or case number
- Basic case information viewing
- Document downloads for available records
- Online payment processing for copy requests
The extent of online services varies significantly between parishes. Urban areas like Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Shreveport typically offer more comprehensive online access than smaller rural parishes.
Using Parish Websites
Each parish maintains its own website with specific procedures for accessing records. The Louisiana Clerks of Court Association provides links to individual parish websites, making it easier to locate the correct online portal for your needs.
When using online systems, you'll typically need to create an account and provide payment information before accessing detailed records or requesting copies.
Special Considerations for Orleans Parish
Orleans Parish, which includes New Orleans, has unique procedures for divorce records due to its size and historical significance. The parish maintains extensive electronic records and offers multiple access options for requesters.
Orleans Parish marriage records older than 50 years are transferred to the Louisiana State Archives rather than remaining with the Clerk of Court. However, divorce records typically remain with the parish court system regardless of age.
The parish offers both online access through its website and in-person services at the Clerk of Court office in downtown New Orleans. Processing times are generally faster than smaller parishes due to more extensive staffing and electronic systems.
Records for Older Divorces
Divorce records for cases more than 50 years old may require special procedures depending on the parish. Some older records may be archived or stored in different locations than recent cases.
While most parishes maintain divorce records indefinitely, storage methods and access procedures may differ for historical cases. Some very old records may only be available on microfilm or in physical archives that require special handling.
If you need records for a divorce from many decades ago, contact the appropriate Clerk of Court office to discuss availability and access procedures for historical records.
Using Records for Legal Purposes
Divorce records serve various legal purposes beyond simple documentation. Understanding how these records are used helps ensure you obtain the correct type and number of copies for your needs.
Common uses for certified divorce records include:
- Proving divorce status for remarriage
- Documenting name changes
- Enforcing child support or custody orders
- Updating social security records
- Processing insurance claims
- Estate planning purposes
Each use may require certified copies rather than informational copies, so specify your intended use when requesting records to ensure you receive appropriate documentation.
Third-Party Services and Alternatives
While official parish records provide the most authoritative source for divorce information, various third-party services also offer record search capabilities. These services can be convenient but may not provide certified copies needed for legal purposes.
Third-party record services typically aggregate information from multiple sources and may offer faster search capabilities across multiple parishes. However, they usually cannot provide certified copies and their information may not be as current or complete as official records.
For legal purposes, always obtain certified copies directly from the appropriate Clerk of Court office rather than relying on third-party services.
Privacy and Confidentiality Concerns
Louisiana law balances public access to court records with privacy protection for sensitive family information. Understanding these protections helps set appropriate expectations for what information is available.
While divorce proceedings are generally public, certain details may be sealed or redacted to protect children's interests or prevent identity theft. Financial account numbers, social security numbers, and detailed custody schedules may not be visible in publicly accessible versions of records.
If you need access to sealed information for legitimate legal purposes, you may need to petition the court or work with an attorney to obtain appropriate access permissions.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Several common issues can complicate the process of obtaining Louisiana divorce records. Being aware of these potential problems helps you prepare for and avoid unnecessary delays.
Name changes between the time of divorce and your current request can make records difficult to locate. Always provide maiden names and any other names the parties may have used during the marriage.
Incomplete or inaccurate information about dates or parishes can lead to unsuccessful searches. If initial searches fail, try expanding your date range or checking neighboring parishes where the parties may have lived.
Getting Help with Your Search
If you encounter difficulties obtaining divorce records, several resources can provide assistance. The Louisiana Clerks of Court Association offers guidance and links to individual parish offices.
Local law libraries often maintain resources for legal research and may have staff who can help explain procedures for obtaining court records. Many parishes also have helpful staff who can guide you through their specific request procedures.
For complex situations involving sealed records or unusual circumstances, consulting with a Louisiana attorney experienced in family law may be necessary to ensure you obtain all needed documentation.
Final Thoughts on Your Record Search
Obtaining Louisiana divorce records requires patience and attention to detail, but the process is straightforward once you understand the requirements. Most people can successfully obtain needed records by following the proper procedures and providing complete information to the appropriate parish office.
Remember that certified copies carry legal weight and are required for most official purposes, while informational copies serve research and general information needs. Always specify your intended use when requesting records to ensure you receive appropriate documentation.
Louisiana divorce records provide important legal documentation that can be essential for various life events and legal requirements, making it worthwhile to understand the proper procedures for accessing these vital records.