Marriage and divorce records are public in Texas. This means that anyone can access these records as they are considered to be part of the public domain. Whether you are conducting genealogical research, background checks, or simply curious about someone’s marital status, you can easily obtain access to these records.
To access public divorce records in Texas, you can follow a few simple steps:
1. Determine the County: Start by determining the county in which the divorce was filed. Texas has 254 counties, so it’s important to know the specific county where the divorce took place.
2. Visit the County Clerk’s Office: Once you know the county, you can visit the county clerk’s office in person. This is where all divorce records are kept. Each county may have slightly different procedures, so it’s a good idea to check the county clerk’s website or call ahead to inquire about their specific requirements.
3. Complete the Request Form: At the county clerk’s office, you will need to complete a request form to access the divorce records. This form typically requires information such as the names of the parties involved, the date of the divorce, and any other relevant details. It’s important to provide as much accurate information as possible to ensure a successful search.
4. Pay the Fees: There may be nominal fees associated with accessing divorce records, such as copying fees or search fees. These fees can vary by county, so it’s best to inquire about the specific costs when submitting your request form.
5. Wait for Processing: After submitting your request form and paying the fees, you will typically need to wait for the county clerk’s office to process your request. The time it takes to receive the records can vary depending on the workload of the office and the availability of the records.
Alternatively, if you prefer to access public divorce records in Texas from the comfort of your own home, you can utilize online resources. Many counties in Texas now offer online access to divorce records through their official websites. These online databases allow you to search for divorce records by entering the relevant information, such as the names of the parties or the date of the divorce. However, it’s important to note that not all counties have online databases, so you may need to visit the county clerk’s office in person if the records you are searching for are not available online.
Marriage and divorce records are public in Texas, and anyone can access them by visiting the county clerk’s office or utilizing online resources where available. It’s important to be prepared with the necessary information and be aware of any fees associated with accessing these records.