Fort Lauderdale City Divorce Decree Records are official court documents that prove a marriage has ended through a final judgment in Broward County, Florida. These records are kept by the Broward County Clerk of Courts, not the City of Fort Lauderdale.
Anyone can request a copy of a divorce decree for legal, personal, or financial reasons. This page explains how to search, view, and order these records in Fort Lauderdale using official sources.
Fort Lauderdale is part of Broward County, so all family court cases for city residents go through the county court system. The clerk’s office holds the original file for every divorce case filed in the county. You can search these files online, by mail, or in person. Some records are free to view, while certified copies cost a small fee.
What Are Fort Lauderdale City Divorce Decree Records
Fort Lauderdale City Divorce Decree Records are written court orders signed by a judge that end a marriage. They are the final step in a divorce case, issued after all issues like property, children, and support have been decided. Once a judge signs the decree, the marriage is legally over. The decree also lists the terms both spouses agreed to or the court ordered.
Types of Divorce Records Available
There are several types of divorce records you can request from the Broward County Clerk of Courts. Each one serves a different purpose. Knowing which one you need saves time and money.
- Divorce Decree: The final court order that ends the marriage. It includes all terms decided in the case.
- Divorce Certificate: A shorter document that only shows basic facts like names, date of divorce, and county. It does not include case details.
- Case File: The full court file with all papers filed during the case, including motions, evidence, and orders.
- Judgment of Dissolution: The formal name for the court’s final ruling. In Florida, divorce is called “dissolution of marriage.”
How Divorce Decrees Differ from Divorce Certificates
Many people mix up divorce decrees and divorce certificates, but they are not the same. A divorce decree is the full court order with all the details of the settlement. A divorce certificate is a short form that only proves the marriage ended. The Florida Department of Health issues divorce certificates, not the clerk’s office. If you need a certified copy of the full decree with all terms, you order it from the Broward County Clerk of Courts.
Who Maintains These Records in Fort Lauderdale
The Broward County Clerk of Courts keeps all divorce records for Fort Lauderdale cases. The City of Fort Lauderdale does not store court records. The city clerk only handles city business like meeting minutes, contracts, and local laws. For any divorce record, the county clerk is your only official source. Their main office is in downtown Fort Lauderdale at 201 SE 6th Street.
How to Search Fort Lauderdale Divorce Records Online
You can search Fort Lauderdale divorce records online through the Broward County Clerk of Courts website. The site lets you look up cases by name, case number, or filing date. Most basic searches are free, but viewing some documents may cost a small fee. The online portal is open 24 hours a day, so you can search anytime from home.
Using the Broward County Clerk of Courts Portal
The official portal is the best place to start your search. Go to the Broward County Clerk of Courts website and click on “Court Records Search” or “Official Records.” You can choose between civil court records and family court records. Divorce cases fall under family court. Once you select family court, you can enter the names of either spouse to find the case.
Searching by Case Number
If you already have a case number, the search is fast and simple. Enter the number in the search box and the full case file will appear. The case number format for Broward County family cases usually starts with a two-digit year, followed by a code, then the sequence number. An example looks like “FMCE-24-012345.” Having the case number removes any guesswork.
Searching by Party Name
Searching by name works well when you do not know the case number. Enter the last name of either spouse in the name search field. Results will show all cases where that person was a party. You may see multiple results, so check the filing date and case type to find the right one. Spouse names may appear reversed in older records, so try both orders if needed.
Free vs Paid Online Search Options
Basic name searches and case index views are free on the clerk’s website. You can see the case status, party names, and filing dates without paying. To view or print the full document, you usually need to pay a fee per page. Certified copies cost more than regular copies. Third-party sites may also offer searches, but they often charge higher fees and may not have the most current records.
Requesting Certified Copies of Divorce Decrees
Certified copies of divorce decrees have an official court seal and signature. Banks, courts, and government agencies usually require certified copies. You can order them in person, by mail, or online through the clerk’s office. Each certified copy has a set fee, and you can order as many as you need at the same time.
In-Person Requests at the Clerk’s Office
Visiting the clerk’s office in person is the fastest way to get a certified copy. Bring a photo ID and the case details you have. The clerk will search the records and print the certified copy while you wait, in most cases. The downtown Fort Lauderdale location is open Monday through Friday during business hours. Parking is available nearby, but it can be busy during lunch hours.
Mail-In Request Process
You can also request certified copies by mail. Send a written request that includes the full names of both spouses, the case number if you have it, the year of filing, and your contact information. Include a copy of your photo ID and a check or money order for the fee. Mail your request to the Broward County Clerk of Courts Records Department. Processing time for mail requests is usually longer than in-person visits.
Online Certified Copy Requests
The Broward County Clerk’s website lets you order certified copies online using a credit or debit card. You can search for the case and pay the fee in one session. The clerk will mail the certified copy to your address or notify you when it is ready for pickup. Online requests are processed during business hours and may take a few business days to complete.
Required Documents and Identification
To request a certified copy, you must show proof of identity. A valid driver’s license, state ID, or passport works for in-person visits. For mail requests, include a clear photocopy of your ID. If you are not a party to the case, you may still be able to get a copy, but you must show a legal reason or have written consent from one of the parties.
Fees and Payment Methods
The fee for a certified copy of a divorce decree in Broward County is set by Florida law. As of 2026, the standard fee is $1 per page for regular copies and a higher fee for certified copies. Additional fees may apply for searches and postage. The clerk’s office accepts cash, checks, money orders, and credit or debit cards for in-person and online orders. Mail requests usually require a check or money order.
Fort Lauderdale Divorce Decree Processing Times
Processing times for Fort Lauderdale divorce decree requests depend on the method you choose and the case details. In-person requests are usually completed the same day. Mail and online requests take longer. The clerk’s office processes requests in the order they are received, so busy times can cause delays.
Standard Processing Timeline
For in-person requests at the Broward County Clerk’s office, most certified copies are issued while you wait. Mail requests take about 7 to 14 business days, depending on mail delivery and office workload. Online requests are usually processed within 3 to 5 business days. If the case is older or archived, the search may take more time.
Expedited Request Options
Florida does not offer a formal expedited service for divorce records through the county clerk. In-person requests are the fastest option. If you need the record urgently, visiting the office in person is the best choice. For very old or sealed cases, the clerk may need extra time to locate the file, even for in-person requests.
Factors That Affect Processing Speed
Several things can slow down your request. Incomplete information, like missing names or wrong dates, requires extra search time. Older cases filed before the 1980s may be stored off-site and need retrieval. Sealed or restricted records require a judge’s order to open. Heavy office volume, like the start of the year or after holidays, can also delay processing.
Florida Laws Governing Divorce Records Access
Florida has strong public records laws that make most court documents open to the public. Divorce decrees are generally public records, but some parts may be sealed by a judge. The main laws that control access are the Florida Public Records Act and Florida Statutes related to family court cases.
Florida Public Records Law
Florida’s Public Records Act, found in Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes, gives the public the right to see most government records. This includes court records held by the clerk. The law is one of the strongest in the country and supports open access. Government agencies must provide copies when asked, with a few specific exceptions.
Who Can Access Divorce Records
Anyone can access basic divorce records in Florida. The names, filing date, and case number are open to the public. For full document access, the rules are the same. You do not have to be a party to the case, a lawyer, or a relative. You only need to follow the request process and pay any required fees. Some sensitive information, like Social Security numbers, is removed before the record is shared.
Sealed or Restricted Records
A judge can seal a divorce record or part of it to protect privacy or sensitive information. Common reasons include domestic violence, child safety, or financial privacy. If a record is sealed, you cannot get a copy without a court order. To open a sealed record, you must file a motion with the court and explain why you need access. The judge will decide based on the facts of the case.
Common Reasons People Request Divorce Decrees
People request divorce decrees for many personal and legal reasons. A certified copy serves as proof that the marriage is over and shows the terms of the final settlement. Knowing the reason you need the decree helps you decide which type of copy to order.
Legal Name Changes
Many people change their name back to a previous name during or after divorce. To update a Social Security card, driver’s license, or bank account, you usually need a copy of the divorce decree. The decree acts as legal proof of the name change. Without it, you may have to go through extra steps to prove your new legal name.
Remarriage Requirements
If you plan to remarry, you will need proof that your previous marriage ended. Most states and counties require a certified copy of the divorce decree before issuing a new marriage license. Florida specifically asks for this document when one or both parties were divorced. The decree must show the case is fully closed.
Financial and Property Matters
Divorce decrees are often needed to divide retirement accounts, sell property, or update financial documents. Banks, brokerages, and insurance companies usually ask for a certified copy to make changes. The decree proves you have the legal right to act on shared accounts or property listed in the settlement.
Immigration Purposes
People going through immigration often need a certified copy of their divorce decree. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services asks for proof that a previous marriage ended before approving a new marriage-based petition. The decree must be a certified copy with a court seal. Translations may also be required if the decree is not in English.
Fort Lauderdale Divorce Record Image Reference
The image below shows the official Fort Lauderdale city records homepage used as a source reference for local divorce decree requests. It helps confirm which office handles public records and which office handles court records for Fort Lauderdale residents.
Broward County Clerk of Courts Contact Information
The Broward County Clerk of Courts is the only official source for Fort Lauderdale divorce decree records. Below is the main office contact information for in-person and mail requests. Hours and fees may change, so call ahead before visiting for important requests.
Main Office Address: 201 SE 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Phone: (954) 831-6565
Website: www.browardclerk.org
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on weekends and official Florida holidays
Records Department Mailing Address: Broward County Clerk of Courts, Records Department, 201 SE 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Before visiting, check the clerk’s website for the latest fee schedule, holiday closures, and any service alerts. The website also has online search tools, form downloads, and answers to common questions about family court records.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Lauderdale Divorce Decree Records
The questions below cover the most common issues people face when searching for or ordering Fort Lauderdale divorce decree records. Each answer gives direct, practical steps based on current clerk office rules and Florida state law. Use these answers as a quick reference before placing your order.
Can I view a Fort Lauderdale divorce decree online for free?
Yes, you can view basic case information for free on the Broward County Clerk of Courts website. The free search shows the case number, party names, filing date, and case status. To see the full decree or download a copy, you usually need to pay a per-page fee. Certified copies always cost more than regular copies and require payment before the clerk releases them.
How long does it take to get a certified divorce decree in Fort Lauderdale?
In-person requests at the Broward County Clerk’s office are usually completed the same day. Mail requests take about 7 to 14 business days, depending on the office workload. Online requests through the clerk’s website are typically processed within 3 to 5 business days. Older cases or sealed records may take longer because the file may need to be pulled from storage or reviewed by a judge.
Do I need to be a party to the divorce to get a copy of the decree?
No, Florida public records law allows anyone to request a copy of a divorce decree. You do not have to be a spouse, lawyer, or relative to view or copy the record. The clerk’s office will ask for photo ID and case details, but they will not turn you away for not being a party. Sensitive information like Social Security numbers is removed before the copy is released.
What is the difference between a divorce decree and a divorce certificate in Florida?
A divorce decree is the full court order that ends the marriage and includes all settlement terms. The Broward County Clerk of Courts issues certified copies of the decree. A divorce certificate is a short form that only shows basic facts like the names of the spouses, date of divorce, and county. The Florida Department of Health, not the county clerk, issues divorce certificates through their vital records office.
Can I get a Fort Lauderdale divorce decree from another state?
You can request a Fort Lauderdale divorce decree from outside Florida, but the request must go through the Broward County Clerk of Courts. You can submit a mail request with a copy of your ID, the case details, and a check or money order. You can also use the clerk’s online portal to order from anywhere with internet access. Third-party services exist, but the county clerk is the only official source.
What if the divorce case is sealed in Fort Lauderdale?
If a divorce case is sealed by a judge, you cannot get a copy without a court order. To open a sealed record, you must file a motion with the Broward County family court and explain why you need access. The judge will review your motion and decide based on the facts. Sealed records often involve domestic violence, child safety, or other sensitive issues. The clerk cannot bypass a sealing order.
Are online third-party divorce record search sites accurate for Fort Lauderdale?
Third-party sites may have some Fort Lauderdale divorce records, but they are not always complete or current. The Broward County Clerk of Courts is the only official source. Third-party sites often charge higher fees and may not update their database as quickly. For legal or official use, always order your record directly from the county clerk to make sure it is accurate and up to date.