Coral Springs City divorce decree records are not kept by the city of Coral Springs. They are stored by the Broward County Clerk of Courts.
This page explains where to search, how to order copies, and what each office handles. You will learn the difference between a court decree and a state certificate. You will also see the steps to get a certified copy for legal use.
Where Coral Springs Divorce Records Are Filed
Many people think the City Clerk holds local divorce records. That is not true in Florida. Divorce cases are filed in county circuit court, not in city hall. The city keeps no part of a divorce file. Each request must go to the county clerk or the state vital records office.
Why the City Clerk Does Not Handle Divorce Files
The City of Coral Springs City Clerk’s Office stores records made by the city. This includes council minutes, contracts, and local laws. Divorce is a state court case. State law puts every divorce file in the county where the case was opened. The city has no power to keep or copy these records. Any phone call to the City Clerk about a divorce will be sent to Broward County.
Broward County Clerk of Courts Role
The Broward County Clerk of Courts is the official record keeper for family court cases. Every divorce filed in the county goes through this office. The clerk stores the petition, the final judgment, and all court orders. The clerk also issues certified copies that other courts and government offices will accept. This office is the main source for Coral Springs divorce decree records.
State Level Filing Through Vital Statistics
After a judge signs the final judgment, the county clerk sends a report to the Florida Department of Health. The Bureau of Vital Statistics stores a record of every dissolution from June 6, 1927 to the present. This state record is separate from the court file. It works for simple proof of divorce when the full court file is not needed.
How to Search Divorce Records Online
Online search tools make it easier to check a divorce case. The Broward County clerk offers a public records search on its website. You can search by name, case number, or filing date. The state also offers a certificate search through its vital records system.
Search by Full Name
Name search is the most common way to find a divorce case. You need the full legal name of at least one party. You should also know the year the case was filed. The clerk search will show case numbers, filing dates, and the type of case. You can then click the case to see the docket and final judgment date.
Search by Case Number
Case number search is faster when you already have the number. A Broward County divorce case number starts with a year code, like 2024, followed by a sequence. You can find this number on a past court paper or through a lawyer. Enter the number into the clerk search box to pull the full docket right away.
Search Through State Vital Records
The Florida Department of Health runs a statewide search for divorce certificates. This search works for anyone whose case was finalized and reported to the state. It costs a fee and may take longer than the county search. The state search is a good backup when the county search shows no result.
Requesting Certified Divorce Decree Copies
A certified copy carries a raised seal or stamp from the issuing office. Courts, banks, and government agencies ask for this type. Regular printouts from a public portal are not accepted for legal use. You must order a certified copy from the county clerk or a state certificate from vital records.
Who Can Request a Certified Copy
Florida law allows the following people to request a certified copy of a divorce decree:
- Either party named in the divorce
- A lawyer with a signed release from a named party
- A court of law through a valid subpoena
- A government agency for official business
- An immediate family member with proof of relation
Required Documents and ID
You must show valid photo ID when you request a certified copy in person. Mail requests need a photocopy of your ID with your signature. The clerk may also ask for proof of your link to the case. Accepted ID includes a driver license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Name changes after the divorce may need a marriage certificate or court order for proof.
Certified Copy Fees
The Broward County Clerk charges a set fee for each certified copy. The fee covers the search, the copy, and the clerk seal. Extra copies of the same case cost less per copy. The Florida vital records office also charges a fee, which is set by state law. Fees can change, so check the current rate on the official site before you send payment.
Processing Timeframes
Walk-in requests at the clerk window are often ready the same day. Mail requests take longer. The clerk must receive your form, payment, and ID copy before they start work. State vital records requests take more time. The state office lists its current wait time on its website. Plan ahead if you need the copy by a court date.
Mail-In and Online Request Methods
You do not need to drive to the clerk office for every request. Florida offers mail, online, and in-person options. Each method has its own form, fee, and timeline. Pick the one that fits your case and your deadline.
Broward County Mail Request Process
Mail requests go to the main clerk office in Fort Lauderdale. You must fill out the clerk records request form. You must include a copy of your photo ID. You must include the right fee by check or money order. The clerk will mail the certified copy to the address on your form. Keep a copy of everything you send for your own records.
Florida Vital Records Online Ordering
The Florida Department of Health runs an online ordering portal. You can pay by credit card. The system asks for case details and ID. The state mails the certificate to you. This method is good for simple proof of divorce when you do not need the full court file.
VitalChek Service
VitalChek is the official partner for Florida vital records orders. You can order a divorce certificate through this service for an added fee. The service is faster than mail and works for people outside Florida. Each order still needs ID and case details before release.
Types of Divorce Documents Available
Several different papers come from a divorce case. Each one has a separate use. You should know the difference before you order. The wrong paper can lead to delays or rejected forms.
Final Judgment of Divorce
The final judgment is the court order that ends the marriage. It has the case number, the judge name, and the date it was signed. It lists how assets, debts, and custody were split. This is the main record most people need for legal work.
Dissolution of Marriage Certificate
A dissolution certificate is a short form issued by the state. It shows the names of both parties, the county where the divorce was granted, and the date. It is used for name changes, retirement updates, and basic proof. It does not list the terms of the divorce.
Case File and Court Documents
The full case file includes the petition, motions, and orders. This file is larger and costs more to copy. Most people do not need the full file. Lawyers and private investigators ask for this when they work on post-judgment matters.
Legal Framework and Access Rules
Florida law controls who can see a divorce record and how it is shared. Most records are public, but some are sealed. The clerk office follows state law on every request. Knowing the law helps you plan your request.
Florida Public Records Law
Florida has a broad public records law under Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes. This law gives the public the right to see most court records. Divorce records fall under this rule. The law also sets the fees and timelines the clerk must follow. You can read the full law on the Florida Legislature site.
Sealed and Restricted Records
A judge can seal a divorce file in certain cases. Sealing is rare. It happens when private details must be hidden, such as in cases of abuse or safety risk. Once sealed, only the people named in the court order can see the file. Public search tools will not show a sealed case.
Fee Waivers and Reduced Costs
Florida law allows fee waivers for people who cannot pay. You must show proof of low income or public aid. The clerk has a form for this request. A judge reviews the form and makes the call. A granted waiver means you pay no fee for the certified copy.
Common Issues and Solutions
Most people hit at least one snag during a search. The good news is that each problem has a fix. Below are the issues that come up most often with Coral Springs divorce decree records.
Missing Case Number
If you do not have the case number, use the name search tool first. Make sure you search the full legal name at the time of the divorce. If the name changed after the divorce, search the prior name. You can also call the clerk office and ask for a case search by name and year.
Name Changes After Divorce
Many people change their last name after a divorce. A search by new name may show no result. Search the name used during the marriage. You can also ask the clerk for a cross-reference search. Bring proof of both names when you order a certified copy.
Out-of-State Requests
People who live outside Florida can still get a copy. Mail requests work well for this. Online ordering through the state or VitalChek is the fastest route. Make sure you send a clear photocopy of your ID. Include a daytime phone number in case the clerk needs to reach you.
Old or Historical Records
Cases filed many years ago may be stored off-site. The clerk can still pull them, but it takes more time. You may need to pay an extra search fee. The state vital records office is a good backup for very old cases. Their records go back to 1927.
Contact Information and Office Locations
The Broward County Clerk of Courts is the main office for all Coral Springs divorce decree records. You can visit in person, call, or send mail. Office hours and contact data are listed below for your use.
Broward County Clerk of Courts
201 SE 6th Street
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Phone: (954) 831-6565
Website: www.browardclerk.org
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics
1217 Pearl Street
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Phone: (904) 359-6900
Website: www.floridahealth.gov
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
City of Coral Springs City Clerk’s Office (for city records only)
9500 W Sample Rd
Coral Springs, FL 33065
Phone: (954) 344-1060
Email: cityclerk@coralsprings.org
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Frequently Asked Questions
The questions below cover the most common points people ask about Coral Springs City divorce decree records. Each answer gives clear, factual data based on Florida law and current clerk policy. Read the section that fits your case to save time on your request.
How long does it take to get a certified divorce decree in Coral Springs?
Walk-in requests at the Broward County Clerk of Courts are often ready the same day. Mail requests take about 5 to 10 business days. State vital records requests take 2 to 4 weeks. Plan ahead for legal deadlines. Rush service may be available for an extra fee through the clerk office. Always include all case details and ID to avoid delays.
Can I get a divorce decree without the case number?
Yes. You can search by full legal name on the Broward County clerk public records portal. You should also know the filing year. The clerk can run a manual search by name for a small fee. A name search is slower than a case number search, but it works in most cases.
What is the difference between a divorce decree and a divorce certificate?
A divorce decree is the full court order. It lists custody, support, and asset split. A divorce certificate is a short state form that shows only the names, county, and date. Courts and lawyers want the decree. Banks and government agencies often accept the certificate for basic proof.
Are all divorce records public in Florida?
Most divorce records are public under Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes. A judge can seal a record in rare cases for safety or privacy. Sealed records are not shown in public search tools. A court order controls who can see a sealed file. You must ask the clerk office about any sealed case.
Can someone else pick up my certified copy?
Yes, with a signed letter of authorization. The letter must list the case, the person picking up, and the type of records. The person picking up must show their own photo ID. The letter must also include your ID copy. Without these, the clerk will not release the certified copy to a third party.
How do I fix a name or date error on my divorce decree?
Errors on a divorce decree must be fixed by court order. You file a motion to correct the judgment in the same court that issued it. The clerk can give you the form and filing fee. After the judge signs the new order, the clerk updates the file. You can then order a corrected certified copy.
What if my divorce was filed in another Florida county?
You must contact the clerk of courts in the county where the case was filed. Each county has its own records and fees. The state vital records office can also issue a certificate for any Florida case. Broward County cannot issue copies for cases filed in other counties.