Volusia County divorce decree records are official court papers that prove a marriage has legally ended in Volusia County, Florida. These records are stored by the Clerk of the Circuit Court and include the final judgment, case number, and judge who signed the order.
Anyone can ask for a copy of these records for legal, personal, or financial reasons. This page explains how to search, request, and get certified copies of divorce decree records in Volusia County using online, mail, and walk-in methods.
What Are Volusia County Divorce Decree Records
A divorce decree record is the final written order from a judge that ends a marriage. In Volusia County, this document includes both parties’ full legal names, the case number, the filing date, and the judge’s signature. The record may also include details about child custody, property division, and support orders. These records are different from a divorce certificate, which only shows that a divorce took place.
Definition and Purpose
The main purpose of a divorce decree record is to serve as legal proof that a marriage has ended. People use these records to update their name on Social Security cards, driver licenses, and bank accounts. Lawyers also use them in court cases involving property, debt, or custody matters. Landlords and lenders may ask for a copy when processing applications tied to a person’s marital status.
Who Maintains These Records
The Volusia County Clerk of the Circuit Court keeps all divorce decree records for cases filed in the county. This office runs the Records Department and the court file storage system. Records for divorces filed before 1927 are held by the Florida State Archives. Records filed after June 6, 1927 are kept at the county level. The state Bureau of Vital Statistics also keeps a statewide index of Florida divorces.
Types of Divorce Documents Available
Volusia County offers three main types of divorce documents through the Clerk’s office. Each type serves a different need and has its own fee.
- Certified divorce decree copy: A copy with the Clerk’s stamp and seal that proves it is real. This copy is accepted by courts, government offices, and most businesses.
- Plain photocopy: A regular copy of the decree without the official seal. This is useful for personal records but not for legal use.
- Case summary or index record: A short record that lists the case number, parties’ names, and filing date. This helps people confirm a case exists before ordering a full copy.
How to Search Volusia County Divorce Records Online
The Volusia County Clerk’s office runs an online records portal where users can search for divorce case details. This portal is free to use and works from any computer or phone with internet access. Users can search by name, case number, or filing date. The portal shows case status, court division, and the date the decree was filed.
Online Portal Access
To use the online portal, visit the official Volusia County Clerk website at volusiaclerk.org. Click on the public records or eRecords section. Users can create a free account or search as a guest. The guest search shows basic case data. A registered account gives access to view document images and order copies online. The portal is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Search by Name and Case Number
Name searches work best when the user knows the full legal name of at least one spouse. The system searches both parties on the case. Case number searches return results faster and give more detail. A case number in Volusia County starts with a two-digit year, followed by a court code like DR for divorce, and ends with a sequence number. For example, case number 2024 DR 001234 means a divorce case filed in 2024.
Free vs Paid Search Options
Basic case searches on the Clerk’s portal are free. Users can see the parties’ names, filing date, and case status without paying. Viewing the actual document image costs a small fee per page. Certified copies cost more and include the Clerk’s seal. Users who need multiple records can buy credits in advance to lower the per-page cost.
Request a Certified Copy of a Divorce Decree
A certified copy of a Volusia County divorce decree is needed for most legal actions. The Clerk’s office issues certified copies with an embossed seal and the clerk’s signature. The copy proves the document is real and unaltered. Most government agencies and courts will not accept a regular photocopy of a divorce decree.
Certified Copy Requirements
To get a certified copy, users must provide the full legal names of both spouses, the case number if known, and the year the divorce was finalized. A valid photo ID is required for in-person requests. Mail requests must include a signed application and a copy of the requester’s ID. The Clerk’s office will not release certified copies without proper identification.
Required Documents and Fees
The standard fee for a certified copy of a Volusia County divorce decree is $10 per document. Additional copies of the same case cost $10 each. Payment for in-person requests can be cash, check, money order, or credit card. Mail requests must include a check or money order made out to the Clerk of Court. Online orders accept credit and debit cards through the secure payment system.
| Request Type | Fee | ID Required | Payment Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Copy (In-Person) | $10 per copy | Yes, photo ID | Cash, check, money order, card |
| Certified Copy (Mail) | $10 per copy | Copy of ID required | Check or money order only |
| Certified Copy (Online) | $10 per copy plus service fee | Account verification | Credit or debit card |
| Plain Photocopy | $1 per page | No | Varies by method |
Processing Times for Certified Copies
In-person requests for certified copies are often filled the same day when case details are correct. Online orders are processed within 3 to 5 business days. Mail requests take 7 to 14 business days based on mail speed and office workload. The Clerk’s office does not rush mail orders, but in-person and online routes offer faster service for urgent needs.
In-Person Requests at the Clerk’s Office
Walk-in requests are the fastest way to get a certified Volusia County divorce decree copy. The Records Department at the main courthouse handles these requests during business hours. Visitors fill out a short request form and pay the fee at the counter. The clerk then pulls the file and prepares the certified copy.
Office Location and Hours
The Volusia County Clerk’s main office sits at 101 North Alabama Avenue, DeLand, Florida 32724. Office hours run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. The office closes on weekends and on official state holidays. Visitors should arrive at least 30 minutes before closing to allow time for the request to be processed. The Records Department is on the first floor near the main entrance.
Walk-In Request Process
When visiting in person, guests first stop at the information desk to get a request form. The form asks for the case number, full names of both spouses, and the type of record needed. After filling out the form, guests take it to the records counter with a photo ID and payment. Staff then search the files, print the certified copy, and apply the Clerk’s seal. The whole process takes about 15 to 30 minutes when the case is easy to locate.
Payment Methods Accepted
The Clerk’s office accepts cash, personal checks, money orders, and major credit cards for in-person requests. Card payments may have a small processing fee. Checks must be pre-printed with the requester’s name and address. The office does not accept temporary checks or out-of-state checks without proper identification.
Mail-In Requests for Divorce Records
Mail requests offer a convenient option for people who live outside the Volusia County area. The Clerk’s office accepts written requests by mail at their DeLand office. Each request must include the right documents, fees, and a self-addressed stamped envelope for the return mail. Mail requests take longer than in-person or online orders.
Mailing Address and Requirements
Mail requests should be sent to the Volusia County Clerk of Court, Records Department, 101 North Alabama Avenue, DeLand, FL 32724. Each request must include the full names of both parties, the case number if known, the year of filing, and the relationship of the requester to the case. A copy of a valid photo ID must be attached. Payment must be a check or money order made out to the Clerk of Court.
Notarized Affidavit Requirements
Some mail requests for certified copies require a notarized affidavit. This applies when the requester is not a named party on the case. The affidavit states the requester’s name, the purpose of the request, and confirms that the records will not be used for unlawful purposes. Many local UPS stores, banks, and shipping centers offer notary services for a small fee.
Turnaround Time for Mail Requests
Mail requests for Volusia County divorce decree records take 7 to 14 business days from the date the office receives the request. The time does not include mail delivery to or from the Clerk’s office. Requesters who need faster service are encouraged to use the online portal or visit the office in person. Tracking the mailed return envelope helps confirm delivery.
Florida State Divorce Records
Florida keeps a statewide record of all divorces filed in the state. The Bureau of Vital Statistics within the Florida Department of Health maintains these records. State records work as an option for people who need basic proof of divorce but do not need a certified copy of the full court decree. State certificates are accepted for many government purposes.
Florida Department of Health Vital Statistics
The Florida Department of Health’s Bureau of Vital Statistics issues state divorce certificates for divorces finalized on or after June 6, 1927. Requesters can order these certificates online, by mail, or in person at the state office in Jacksonville. The state certificate costs $5 plus a service fee for online orders. The certificate shows the names of both parties, the county where the divorce was granted, and the date of the final judgment.
State vs County Record Differences
The state certificate only confirms a divorce took place and lists basic facts. The county certified decree copy includes the full court order with details on property, custody, and support. For legal matters like enforcing custody orders or dividing retirement accounts, the county decree is required. For simple name changes or proof of single status, the state certificate is enough.
Statewide Certificate Ordering
Online orders for Florida divorce certificates go through VitalChek, the official service partner of the Florida Department of Health. Orders can also be placed by mail using the state request form. In-person orders are handled at the Jacksonville state office. State certificates take 3 to 5 business days for online orders and 2 to 4 weeks for mail requests.
Volusia County Court System Overview
Volusia County is part of Florida’s Seventh Judicial Circuit. All divorce cases are heard in the Circuit Court’s Family Law Division. The Clerk of Court files and stores all case documents for this division. Understanding the court system helps users find the right records and use the correct forms when filing requests.
Circuit Court Family Division
The Family Law Division handles all divorce, paternity, custody, and adoption cases filed in Volusia County. The division has judges who only hear family cases, which helps speed up the legal process. Cases are assigned to judges based on the filing date and courtroom availability. Users can see which judge is assigned to a case through the online portal or by calling the Clerk’s office.
Case Number Format
Volusia County divorce case numbers follow a clear format that includes the year, court type, and sequence. The format looks like 2024 DR 001234, where 2024 is the year, DR means dissolution of marriage, and 001234 is the case sequence. Older cases may use different codes, such as DM for domestic relations. Knowing the case number speeds up searches and record requests.
Filing Fees and Court Costs
The filing fee for a new divorce case in Volusia County is around $400. This fee covers the initial filing and basic court costs. Extra fees apply for service of process, certified copies, and motions filed during the case. People who cannot afford the filing fee can apply for a fee waiver by submitting a financial affidavit to the court. The Clerk’s office can provide the waiver form.
Common Reasons to Request Divorce Records
People request Volusia County divorce decree records for many reasons throughout their lives. The document is often needed years after the divorce is final. Knowing the right reason helps users choose between a certified county copy and a simpler state certificate. Below are the most common reasons people request these records.
Legal Proceedings
Lawyers and courts often need certified copies of divorce decrees for new legal cases. A decree can be used in bankruptcy filings to show marital debt, in custody enforcement actions, or in appeals related to the original divorce. Courts in other states may also require a certified Florida divorce decree when a case crosses state lines. The certified copy proves the original order is real and enforceable.
Name Change Applications
Many people change their name back to a previous name after divorce. To do this, they must show a certified divorce decree to the Social Security Administration, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, banks, and other agencies. Each agency has its own rules for accepting copies. Some agencies accept a state certificate, while others require a full certified decree copy.
Financial and Property Matters
Divorce decrees affect property, retirement accounts, insurance, and tax filings. Banks may need a certified copy to remove a spouse from a joint account. Retirement plan administrators require a qualified domestic relations order, which is part of the divorce decree, to divide retirement funds. Insurance companies also ask for a copy when changing beneficiary information after a divorce.
Privacy and Access Restrictions
Florida law makes most divorce records open to the public, but some details are kept private. The Clerk’s office redacts sensitive information before releasing records to people who are not named on the case. This protects parties from identity theft and keeps private matters out of public view. Some records can be fully sealed by court order.
Public Access Rules
Under Florida’s public records law, anyone can request a copy of a divorce decree. The law treats these records the same as other court filings. Users do not need to be a party to the case to ask for a copy. The Clerk’s office must respond to public records requests within a reasonable time. Fees apply for copies and certified copies as described above.
Redacted Information
Certain details are removed from public copies to protect privacy. Redacted items may include Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, credit card numbers, and minor children’s full names. The names of parties on the case are not redacted because the case must be identifiable in the public record. The Clerk’s office uses software that automatically redacts sensitive data.
Sealed Records Process
Some divorce records are sealed by a judge’s order. Sealed records are not available to the public, even on request. To get a sealed record, a person must file a motion with the court asking to unseal the file. The judge reviews the motion and decides whether to grant access. Common reasons to seal a case include concerns about safety, privacy, or the protection of minor children.
Volusia County Clerk of Court Contact
For questions about Volusia County divorce decree records, contact the Clerk of Court office directly using the details below.
- Official Website: https://www.volusiaclerk.org
- Phone Number: (386) 736-5900
- Main Office Address: 101 North Alabama Avenue, DeLand, FL 32724
- Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Email: Available through the official website contact form
Frequently Asked Questions
The questions below cover the most common concerns about Volusia County divorce decree records. Each answer gives clear steps, current fees, and what to expect during the request process. These answers are based on Florida public records law and the current policies of the Volusia County Clerk of Court as of 2026.
How long does it take to get a Volusia County divorce decree copy?
In-person requests at the DeLand office are often filled the same day, usually within 15 to 30 minutes. Online orders through the Clerk’s eRecords portal take 3 to 5 business days. Mail requests take 7 to 14 business days after the office receives the request. The total time depends on the request method, how complete the case details are, and current office workload. The Clerk’s office does not offer expedited mail service, but online and in-person routes are the fastest options for urgent needs.
Can anyone request a Volusia County divorce decree copy?
Yes, Florida public records law allows anyone to request a copy of a divorce decree filed in Volusia County. The requester does not need to be a party to the case, a family member, or a lawyer. The Clerk’s office processes requests from private individuals, businesses, and government agencies. Some sensitive details are redacted for privacy, but the basic record is open to all requesters. Sealed records are the only exception and require a court order to access.
What is the difference between a divorce decree and a divorce certificate?
A divorce decree is the full court order that ends the marriage and includes all terms set by the judge. It covers property, custody, and support in detail. A divorce certificate is a short document that only proves a divorce took place, showing names, county, and date. Certified decrees come from the Volusia County Clerk of Court. Certificates come from the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics. Most legal actions need a certified decree, but simple name changes and proof of single status can use a state certificate.
How much does a certified divorce decree copy cost in Volusia County?
The standard fee for a certified copy of a Volusia County divorce decree is $10 per document. Additional copies of the same case cost $10 each. Online orders have a small service fee on top of the $10. Plain photocopies without the Clerk’s seal cost $1 per page. The Clerk’s office does not charge extra for searching for the case, only for the actual copies. Fees must be paid at the time of the request.
Can I search Volusia County divorce records by name for free?
Yes, the Volusia County Clerk’s online portal allows free searches by name. Users see the case number, parties’ names, filing date, and case status at no cost. Viewing the actual document image costs a small per-page fee. Certified copies cost the full $10 fee. The free search is a good first step to confirm a case exists before paying for copies.
What if I do not know the case number for a Volusia County divorce?
Users who do not know the case number can still search for the record. The online portal allows searches by the full name of either spouse. The search will return matching cases along with their case numbers. Users can also visit the Records Department in person and ask staff to help locate the case. Staff will need the full legal names of both spouses and the approximate year of the divorce to run a proper search. The Records Department does not charge for search help, only for copies of the actual documents.
Are old Volusia County divorce records still available?
Yes, the Volusia County Clerk’s office keeps divorce records going back many decades. Records filed after June 6, 1927 are stored at the county level. Records filed before that date are held by the Florida State Archives. Older records may take longer to locate because they are stored in physical archives rather than digital systems. Users requesting very old records should allow extra time and may need to visit the office in person. Some older records may be available only as microfilm copies.