Divorce Records in Los Angeles County are maintained by the Superior Court’s Family Law Division and can be accessed through several channels. The Los Angeles County divorce records search engine lets users query by spouse name, case number, filing date, or court location, returning results that show the Los Angeles County divorce case number, filing and judgment dates, and basic party information. Because the Registrar‑Recorder does not store these files, every Los Angeles County divorce record lookup is performed at the courthouse or via the court’s online portal, where most recent filings appear as scanned images. Researchers can obtain Los Angeles County divorce records online by entering the case identifier or by browsing the public divorce records index, which also lists Los Angeles County court records divorce records search outcomes. While many files are open to public review, some Los Angeles County divorce documents are sealed for privacy reasons, and a request for a certified copy may require additional verification. Knowing the distinction between a divorce decree and the underlying case file helps users request the correct Los Angeles County divorce record copy.
Divorce Records can be requested in several formats, each serving a different legal need. A Los Angeles County certified divorce record includes the official divorce decree, any accompanying divorce court orders, and the final judgment, making it suitable for name‑change petitions or enforcement of support obligations. To obtain a Los Angeles County divorce record copy, applicants must submit a signed request form, present acceptable identification, and pay the applicable copy fees at the courthouse clerk’s desk. Certified copies of divorce records carry the court seal and may be mailed after the clerk validates the request, while standard copies are handed on the spot for most recent cases. The Los Angeles County family court records also hold related divorce case documents such as the original divorce petition, motions, and post‑divorce modifications, all of which can be accessed through the public divorce records online portal when the case is not sealed. For those needing divorce record verification, the court’s case index confirms the correct case number and filing date, ensuring the retrieved Los Angeles County divorce record matches the original filing.
How to Search Divorce Records
You can look up Los Angeles County divorce records through the Superior Court’s online portal or by visiting the courthouse in person. The Family Law Division keeps these files and lets you search by spouse name, case number, filing date, or court location. For related public documentation and local filings, you can consult official death records resources. Most recent cases show up as scanned images on the public search page. Each entry lists the filing date, judgment date, case number, and the names of both parties.
Official Search Portal: https://www.lacourt.org/
Steps to Search
- Open the Los Angeles Superior Court website at https://www.lacourt.org/.
- Click on the “Case Access” or “Online Services” section.
- Choose “Family Law” as the case type.
- Type your search details (name, case number, or filing date) into the search box.
- Look through the results to find the right case.
- Write down the case number and filing dates for your records.
Search by Spouse Name
Searching by spouse name is one of the most common ways to find a Los Angeles County divorce record. You can type the last name of either party on the court portal to see a list of matching cases. The results show the first and last names of both spouses, the case number, and the court where the case was filed. This method works best when you know the full legal name of at least one spouse.
Search by Case Number
If you have a case number, you can pull up the exact file right away. Each divorce case in Los Angeles County has its own case number that the court assigns when the petition is filed. Type the number into the search field to see the full case history, parties listed, and all filed documents. This search method gives you faster and more accurate results than a name search.
Search by Filing Date
You can narrow your Los Angeles County divorce case number search by entering a filing date range on the court portal. This helps when you know roughly when the divorce was started but not the case number. The search shows all cases filed in that time frame that match your other criteria. Filing date searches are useful for background checks, genealogy research, or legal filings.
Search by Court
The Los Angeles Superior Court has many locations, and you can search by court location as well. Each courthouse handles cases filed in its district, so knowing the court narrows your search to the right area. The main Family Law courthouse is at 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012. Court-based searches help when records were filed in a specific district.
Details Needed for a Search
Before you start your search, gather the key details you need to find the right file. Having accurate details saves time and helps you avoid looking at the wrong case. The court lets you search with one or more of the following details:
- Full legal name of either spouse
- Case number, if known
- Filing date or year of divorce
- Court location where the case was filed
- Date range for the divorce judgment
What Divorce Records Show
Divorce records in Los Angeles County show the basic facts about a marriage dissolution case. These files give you a clear picture of who was involved and what happened in court. Each record lists details like party names, dates, and court actions. You can use these details to verify the case or pull related documents.
Names of the Parties
Every Los Angeles County divorce case lookup lists the full legal names of both spouses as they appeared on the original filing. The court uses these names to identify the parties through every step of the case. Name listings help you confirm you have the right case, especially when searching by partial names or common surnames. Names may differ from current legal names if either party changed their name after the divorce.
Case Number
Each case gets a unique case number when the divorce petition is filed. This number stays with the case from start to finish, even after the final judgment. The case number links all documents, hearings, and orders under one file. You need this number to pull certified copies, check the case status, or look at post-judgment records.
Filing and Judgment Dates
The record shows two key dates. The first is the divorce filing date when the petition was submitted. The second is the divorce judgment date when the court issued the final divorce decree. The filing date starts the legal case and the judgment date ends it. These dates help you sort searches by year, verify old cases, and check the timeline of a divorce.
Court Details
Each record shows the court location that handled the case. In Los Angeles County, most family law cases go through the main courthouse at 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012. Knowing the court helps you request files from the right clerk’s office. The court info also shows which judge was assigned to the case and the department number.
Case Status
The divorce case status shows where the case stands in the legal process. Status options include pending, disposed, dismissed, or reopened for post-judgment matters. The status tells you whether the divorce is still active or fully closed. You can check the status using the case number on the court portal at any time.
Divorce Outcome
The divorce case outcome field lists the final result of the case. Most cases end with a final judgment of dissolution, but some cases are dismissed before reaching judgment. The outcome tells you if the divorce was granted, denied, or settled by default. This field is useful for legal work, background checks, and personal records.
Divorce Case Documents
A Los Angeles County divorce case record holds many documents filed by both parties and the court. These papers show the legal steps from the start of the case to the final judgment. You can view most documents online through the court’s portal, or you can request paper copies from the clerk’s office. Each document serves a specific role in the divorce process.
| Document Type | What It Shows |
|---|---|
| Divorce Petition | The first paper filed to start the case |
| Response | The other spouse’s answer to the petition |
| Court Filings | Divorce court filings made during the case |
| Court Orders | Decisions made by the judge on specific issues |
| Divorce Decree | The final order ending the marriage |
| Final Judgment | The court’s official ruling on the divorce |
| Post-Judgment Documents | Filings made after the divorce was granted |
Divorce Petition
The divorce petition is the first paper filed to start the case. It lists the reason for the divorce, the names of both spouses, and what the filing spouse is asking the court to order. The petition gives the court power over the marriage and the issues at stake. You can find this document at the top of every case file.
Court Filings
Divorce court filings cover every paper submitted during the case, such as motions, declarations, and proof of service. Each filing adds to the case record and shows the court’s actions on each issue. Filings cover requests for temporary support, custody, property orders, and case management. You can review these filings to see how the case moved through court.
Court Orders
Divorce court orders are written rulings from the judge that direct the parties on specific issues. These orders can be temporary, like during the case, or permanent, like at the final judgment. Orders cover child custody, support payments, property use, and protective actions. They carry the force of law and must be obeyed by the spouses.
Divorce Decree
The final divorce decree is the court’s final order that ends the marriage. It lists the terms of the divorce, including property division, custody, and support orders. The decree goes into effect on the date the judge signs it. A certified copy of the decree serves as proof that the marriage has been legally ended.
Final Judgment
The final divorce judgment is the court’s complete ruling on the divorce case. It includes the decree and all orders tied to the dissolution, such as support, custody, and property terms. The final judgment closes the case unless a party files a post-judgment motion. This document is what most people need when they ask for a certified copy.
Post-Judgment Documents
Post-divorce court documents are filings made after the final judgment enters. These papers cover enforcement of orders, changes to support or custody, and motions to set aside judgments. They are part of the same case file and stay accessible through the case number. Post-judgment records help you see updates to support payments or custody arrangements after the divorce.
Los Angeles County Divorce Records Access
Los Angeles County divorce records are kept by the Superior Court and are open to the public in most cases. You can see them online, at the courthouse, or by mail request. Some records are sealed for privacy reasons, and you need a court order to view them. Knowing how each type of record works saves time and helps you get the right file.
Public Divorce Records
Public divorce records are open to anyone who wants to view them. These files show basic case details, the parties’ names, the case number, and the judgment date. You can pull them up on the court’s online portal without an account or login. Public records work well for genealogy research, background checks, and legal filings.
Online Case Access
The court portal at https://www.lacourt.org/ lets you view case details and scanned documents. You can search by name, case number, or filing date to find your case through public divorce records online. Once you find the right case, you can see the docket, list of filings, and image scans of most documents. Online access is free and works any time of day.
Clerk’s Office Records
The clerk’s office at the courthouse holds the original paper files for every family law case. Los Angeles County family court records cover divorce, custody, support, and other family matters. You can visit the clerk’s office during business hours to view files and ask for copies. The clerk can help you find the right file and confirm the case details.
Restricted Records
Restricted divorce records are files that the court limits from public view. The court may restrict access to protect a child, a victim of domestic violence, or sensitive financial details. You need a court order or the judge’s permission to see restricted records. The clerk can tell you if a record is restricted and how to ask for access.
Sealed Documents
Sealed divorce records are closed to public view. A judge orders the file sealed to protect private details or for safety reasons. You cannot see a sealed file without filing a motion and getting a court order. Sealed documents stay out of the public index and online search results.
Confidential Details
Some details in a divorce file are kept confidential, even when the rest of the case is public. Confidential items may include Social Security numbers, bank account details, minor children’s names, and medical records. The court hides these details from public view to protect the parties. You can see the redacted version of the document.
How to Obtain Divorce Records
You can get copies of divorce records three ways: online, by mail, or in person at the courthouse. Each method has its own steps, fees, and processing times. The right method depends on how fast you need the copy and whether you need it certified. The court charges a fee for each copy you request.
| Request Method | How It Works | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Search the portal and download a copy | Same day for most files |
| Send a request form with payment | 5 to 10 business days | |
| In Person | Visit the clerk’s office during business hours | Same day for most files |
Online Requests
Online divorce records requests are the fastest way to get a copy. You search for the case on the court’s portal, then follow the prompts to download or order a copy. Standard copies are usually free to view, but certified copies cost a set price per document. Online access is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
Mail Requests
You can mail a written request to the clerk’s office to get a divorce record copy by postal mail. Your request must include the case number, party names, the records you want, and a check or money order for the fee. The clerk will mail the copies back to you after processing. Mail requests work best when you live outside the area.
In-Person Requests
You can visit the clerk’s office at 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 to request divorce records in person. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Bring your photo ID, the case number, and payment for the copy fee. Most requests are processed the same day for standard and certified copies.
Identification Requirements
The court requires you to show a valid form of ID before giving you a certified copy of a divorce record. The clerk verifies your ID to make sure you have the right to get the copy. Some records may need a signed declaration along with your ID. Accepted forms of ID for certified copies include:
- Driver’s license
- State-issued ID card
- Passport
- Military ID
- Tribal ID card
Copy Fees
The court charges a fee for each divorce record copy. Standard copies cost less than certified copies, which carry the official court stamp and seal. The clerk can tell you the current fee when you make your request. Payment can be made by cash, check, money order, or credit card, depending on the request method.
Certified Copies
A certified copy of a divorce record carries the official court seal and signature. You need a Los Angeles County certified divorce record for name changes, remarriage, immigration, and legal filings. The court adds a stamp to the copy to prove it is a true copy of the original file. Certified copies take a little longer to process than standard copies.
Divorce Records and Case-Related Details
Los Angeles County family law records hold details about many parts of family life. These files cover property, money, children, and support orders from the case. You can pull these details from the case file to see what the court ordered for each issue. Most case-related files are public, but some sensitive details are kept private.
Property Division
Property division records show how the court split assets between the spouses. These orders are part of the final judgment and carry the force of law. Additional county documentation and official archives are indexed under marriage records. You can review these orders to see who got what assets and who is responsible for shared debts. Common items covered in property division orders include:
- Family residence and other real estate
- Vehicles, boats, and other vehicles
- Bank accounts and investments
- Retirement funds and pensions
- Shared debts and loans
Child Custody and Conservatorship
Child custody records list the custody and conservatorship orders for any minor children. These orders show whether the parents have joint or sole custody and who makes key decisions for the child. Custody orders stay in effect until the child turns 18 or the court changes them. You can find these orders in the final judgment or in post-judgment filings.
Child Support
Child support records show the support amount, payment schedule, and who pays and receives the support. The court sets support based on state guidelines, the parents’ income, and the child’s needs. Support orders stay in effect until the child turns 18 or finishes high school. Changes to support are part of post-judgment filings.
Spousal Support
Spousal support records, also called alimony, are listed in the divorce file when the court orders them. The record shows the support amount, payment length, and the start and end dates. Spousal support can change based on income changes or the length of the marriage. You can review these orders in the final judgment.
Parenting and Visitation Orders
Parenting and visitation orders record the schedule for each parent to spend time with the child. The file lists the regular schedule, holidays, and vacation time. Orders may also cover exchanges, phone calls, and travel approvals. These orders stay active until a court changes them or the child turns 18.
Post-Divorce Modifications
Post-divorce modifications are filings made after the final judgment to change existing orders. These motions cover changes in income, custody, support, or other life changes. The court reviews each request and decides based on the new facts. You can view these filings under the same case number on the court portal.
Divorce Record Privacy and Availability
Divorce records balance public access with the need to protect private details. The law requires the court to hide some details from public view while letting people see the rest of the case. You should know which parts are open and which parts are restricted before you request a file. The court keeps certain details private to protect the parties and their children.
Protected Personal Details
Personal details like Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, and passport numbers are removed from public records. The court hides these details to stop identity theft and protect the parties. You can see the redacted version of the file but not the full details. Only the court and the parties can see the full unredacted version.
Financial Records
Financial details such as bank account numbers, tax returns, and pay stubs are kept confidential. The court limits access to these details to protect the parties’ finances. Financial forms may be sealed or kept in a confidential part of the file. You can ask the court to see these details only if you are a party to the case.
Child-Related Records
The court protects details about minor children in a divorce case. The file may hide the names of children, the schools they attend, and medical details. These protections keep children safe from public attention. The court redacts these details before letting the public see the file.
Sealed Case Materials
Sealed case materials are closed to public view by a judge’s order. The court may seal the whole case or just specific documents. Sealed files stay out of the public index and online searches. You must file a motion with the court to ask for access to sealed materials.
Records With Limited Access
Some records are open only to the parties named in the case, their lawyers, and the court. Limited access applies to domestic violence files, child custody evaluations, and certain financial records. You need to show you have a legal right to see these files. The clerk can explain how to ask for access if you need these records.
Divorce Record Accuracy and Search Limitations
Divorce records are most helpful when they are accurate and complete. The court works hard to keep records right, but errors can happen from time to time. Knowing the limits of the search system helps you avoid looking at the wrong file. You can take steps to confirm you have the right case before you request a certified copy.
Confirming the Correct Divorce Case
Always confirm the case details before you order a certified copy or rely on a record. Match the names, dates, and case number against your own notes. A small error in spelling or number can lead you to the wrong file. The court portal lets you review the case summary before you make a final request.
Matching Spouse Names
Names in the record must match the legal names of the spouses at the time of the divorce. Names can differ from current names if either party changed their name after the divorce. The court uses the names on the petition, so check those details carefully. If the names do not match, you may be looking at the wrong file.
Verifying Case Numbers
The case number is the best way to find the right file. Each case has one number that stays with the file from start to finish. Type the number exactly as shown, with all letters and digits, when you search. A small error can lead you to a different case or no result.
Recently Filed Records
Records of recently filed divorce cases may take time to show up on the online portal. The court needs time to scan and index each document before it appears online. New filings may be available at the courthouse before they appear online. If you cannot find a recent case online, check the clerk’s office directly.
Missing Documents
Some documents may be missing from the public file because of redactions or sealing. The court removes or hides certain pages before letting the public view the file. Missing pages do not mean the case is incomplete. The clerk can tell you if a document was removed for privacy or another reason.
Delayed Record Updates
Updates to a case, such as new filings or judgments, may take time to show up online. The court processes filings in the order they are received. A delay does not mean a filing was lost. You can check the case status on the portal or call the clerk’s office for the latest details.
Records Held by Another Court
Some divorce records are held by courts in other counties if the case was filed elsewhere. Los Angeles County only keeps records for cases filed in this county. If you are not sure where the divorce happened, check the county where the spouses lived when they filed. The clerk at the right courthouse can help you find the file.
Search Problems
Search problems happen often when looking for divorce records. Most issues come from small errors in the search details or files that are not yet public. Knowing the most common problems helps you fix the search or find the right place to look. The court has tools and staff to help you when a search does not work.
No Divorce Record Found
A “no record found” result usually means the search did not match a case in the system. This can happen if you typed the name wrong, used the wrong date range, or picked the wrong court. Try a different spelling, a wider date range, or another court location. The clerk can help if you still cannot find the file.
Incorrect Name or Spelling
Names with even small spelling errors will not show up in search results. Court records use the spelling from the filing, so a typo on the petition can lead to a missed match. Try other spellings, nicknames, or maiden names. You can also search by case number if you know it.
Incorrect Case Number
Entering the wrong case number is a common cause of failed searches. A single wrong digit or letter will send you to a different case or no case at all. Double-check the number with the source where you got it. If you do not have the right number, search by name and filing date instead.
Wrong Court or County
Searching the wrong court or county will not return a result for cases filed in another place. Divorce cases are kept by the court where they were filed. Los Angeles County only holds cases filed in Los Angeles County. Check the county where the spouses lived when they filed.
Record Not Yet Available
Newly filed cases may not show up online for a few days or weeks. The court needs time to scan the documents and add them to the search system. If you cannot find a recent case, check back in a few days or visit the clerk’s office. The clerk can tell you if the file has been processed yet.
Restricted or Sealed Record
Some records are restricted or sealed by court order and will not appear in public searches. The court hides these files to protect the parties or for other legal reasons. You cannot view a sealed file without a court order. Talk to a lawyer if you need to see a restricted or sealed record.
Divorce Records and Related Records
Divorce records are one type of court file, but many other records relate to divorce cases. Knowing the differences helps you request the right file and avoid confusion. Each type of record serves a specific legal purpose. The court keeps these files in separate sections but links them through case numbers.
Divorce Records vs. Divorce Decrees
Divorce records cover the full case file, while a divorce decree is just the final order that ends the marriage. The record shows every filing and hearing, but the decree shows the final ruling only. You need a decree for name changes and remarriage. You need the full record for legal work that covers the whole case.
Divorce Records vs. Marriage Records
Marriage records come from the county clerk’s office, not the court. A marriage record shows the date and place of the marriage and the names of the spouses. A divorce record shows the end of the marriage through a court case. You need both records for a full picture of a marriage and divorce.
Divorce Records vs. Court Records
Court records cover all types of cases, not just divorce. The court keeps files for civil, criminal, traffic, and family law matters. Divorce records are part of the family law section of the court. Each type of record has its own search rules and access rules.
Divorce Records vs. Property Records
Property records show who owns real estate and other assets, not divorce orders. The county recorder’s office keeps property records, while the court keeps divorce records. A divorce file may list property orders, but the actual property records stay with the recorder. You may need both for a full picture of an asset.
Divorce Records vs. Child Support Records
Child support records show payments made and owed, not the court orders that set the support. The Department of Child Support Services keeps payment records. The court keeps the original support orders. You need both to see what was ordered and what was paid.
Los Angeles County Divorce Records Contact Details
You can reach the Los Angeles Superior Court Family Law Division for help with divorce records. The court serves people across Los Angeles County, and help is available by phone, in person, and online. Office hours are limited, so plan your visit or call during business hours. The clerks can help you search for cases, request copies, and check on requests you have already sent in.
Court Location: Los Angeles Superior Court, 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
Contact Number: (213) 830-0800
Office Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Official Website Search Portal: https://www.lacourt.org/
Frequently Asked Questions
Los Angeles County divorce records help people confirm marriage endings, retrieve court orders, and settle financial matters. The Superior Court keeps these files, and many are viewable online or at the courthouse. Getting a certified copy can speed up name changes, child‑support updates, and property transfers. Knowing where and how to request a record saves time and avoids extra fees. Below are the most common questions about searching, requesting, and using divorce documents in Los Angeles County.
How can I search Los Angeles County divorce records online?
Visit the Superior Court’s public portal at https://www.lacourt.org/. Then choose the Family Law section and enter a spouse’s name, case number, or filing date. The system returns a list that shows the filing date, judgment date, and parties involved. If the case was filed after 2004, a scanned image may appear. For older cases, the portal directs you to the Archives & Records Center. Create an account to view documents instantly, and print the needed pages for your records.
What is the fee for a certified copy of a Los Angeles County divorce record?
The court charges $10 for each certified copy. First, locate the case using the online search or by calling the Family Law Call Center at (213) 633‑6363. Then fill out the request form on the website or submit a paper form at the courthouse. Include the case number, names of both parties, and your mailing address. Pay by credit card online or with cash/check in person. After payment, the clerk processes the request and mails the certified copy within 7‑10 business days.
How can I locate it in Los Angeles County court records?
Call the Family Law Call Center at (213) 633‑6363 and give the names of both parties and the approximate filing year. The representative can search the internal database and supply the correct case number. You may also visit the courthouse, use the public kiosk, and enter the parties’ names to retrieve the number. Once you have the case number, return to the online portal to view or request the full record.
What steps should I take if my divorce record is sealed or restricted?
First, verify the sealing status by contacting the court clerk at (213) 830‑0800. If the record is sealed, you must file a petition to lift the seal, explaining why public access is needed. Attach supporting documents such as a notarized statement or a court order. After filing, the judge reviews the request and may issue an order granting limited access. Once the order is granted, submit a request for the certified copy and pay the standard fee.
Can I request a Los Angeles County divorce record by mail?
Yes. Download the “Record Request” form from the court’s website. Fill in the case number, names of both parties, and your mailing address. Include a copy of a government‑issued ID and a check or credit‑card authorization for the $10 fee. Mail the package to Los Angeles Superior Court, Records Office, 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012. The clerk processes mail requests within 10‑14 days and returns the certified copy by USPS. Include a self‑addressed stamped envelope to speed delivery.