How to Access Florida Divorce Records Online for Free

Overview

• Florida's Divorce Rate: Florida has one of the highest divorce rates in the U.S., with 6 out of every 1,000 people having divorce records. Source.
• Record Availability: Divorce records from June 6, 1927, to the present are available at the Florida Department of Health's State Office of Vital Statistics. Records before this date are held by the Clerk of Court in the county where the divorce was granted.

Accessing Divorce Records

Online vs. In-Person

• Online Searches:

  • Convenience: Access multiple databases from home.
  • Speed: Instant results compared to weeks of waiting for mail requests.
  • Scope: Broader access to records across different states.

• In-Person Searches:

  • Limitations: Restricted to specific county databases.
  • Processing Time: Typically takes 2-3 weeks for processing.

Why Access Divorce Records?

• Security: Verify the background of individuals who may pose a threat.
• Legal Requirements: Necessary for immigration, name changes, or remarriage.
• Personal Research: Gather information about potential partners.

Free vs. Paid Access

• Free Access:

  • Available through state resources and some online databases.
  • May require a fee for official copies or detailed reports.

• Paid Services:

  • Private investigators can provide detailed searches for a fee.
  • Online services may offer more comprehensive data for a subscription.

Additional Resources

• Florida Department of Health: Vital Statistics
• National Center for Health Statistics: Divorce Rates

Interesting Facts

• Divorce Trends: The U.S. divorce rate has been declining since the 1980s, but Florida remains above the national average. Source.
• Digital Records: Over 70% of U.S. states now offer some form of online access to vital records, including divorce records. Source.

By understanding the options and processes for accessing Florida divorce records, you can efficiently obtain the information you need. Whether for personal, legal, or research purposes, these records are a valuable resource.