Divorce is a difficult and emotional process for all parties involved. Whether you are going through a divorce yourself or are simply interested in finding divorce records in Georgia, it is important to understand the process and know where to look for this information.
Finding divorce records in Georgia can be a daunting task, especially if you are not familiar with the state’s laws and regulations. However, with the right information and resources, you can easily locate the divorce records you are looking for. In this article, we will explore how to find divorce records in Georgia, as well as provide seven interesting facts about divorce in the state.
How To Find Divorce Records In Georgia:
1. Start with the Georgia Department of Public Health: The Georgia Department of Public Health is a great place to start when looking for divorce records in the state. They have a vital records office that maintains divorce records dating back to June 1952. You can request these records either in person or by mail.
2. Check with the Superior Court Clerk’s Office: Another option for finding divorce records in Georgia is to contact the Superior Court Clerk’s Office in the county where the divorce was filed. Each county in Georgia has its own Clerk of Superior Court who maintains divorce records for that county.
3. Use online resources: There are several online resources that can help you find divorce records in Georgia. Websites such as Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, and Georgia’s Virtual Vault all have databases of public records, including divorce records. These websites may charge a fee for access to their databases.
4. Hire a private investigator: If you are having trouble locating divorce records on your own, you may want to consider hiring a private investigator. Private investigators have access to a wide range of resources and can help you track down the information you are looking for.
5. Visit the National Archives: The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) has a regional office in Atlanta, Georgia. They have a collection of court records, including divorce records, that you can access in person.
6. Contact the Georgia State Archives: The Georgia State Archives is another resource for finding divorce records in the state. They have a collection of historical records dating back to the colonial period, including divorce records.
7. Check with the Georgia Court of Appeals: If you are unable to find the divorce records you are looking for through other means, you may want to contact the Georgia Court of Appeals. They may be able to provide you with information on how to access divorce records in the state.
Interesting Facts About Divorce in Georgia:
1. Georgia is a no-fault divorce state: In Georgia, you do not need to prove fault in order to obtain a divorce. This means that you can file for divorce based on irreconcilable differences, without having to prove that one party is at fault for the breakdown of the marriage.
2. Residency requirements: In order to file for divorce in Georgia, either you or your spouse must have been a resident of the state for at least six months prior to filing. This is a common requirement in many states to prevent forum shopping.
3. Equitable distribution: Georgia is an equitable distribution state when it comes to dividing marital property in a divorce. This means that the court will divide marital property in a fair and equitable manner, but not necessarily 50/50.
4. Alimony may be awarded: In Georgia, alimony may be awarded to one spouse in a divorce, depending on factors such as the length of the marriage, the financial needs of each party, and the ability of each party to support themselves.
5. Child custody and support: In Georgia, child custody and support are determined based on the best interests of the child. The court will consider factors such as the child’s relationship with each parent, the ability of each parent to provide for the child’s needs, and the child’s wishes if they are old enough to express them.
6. Mediation is encouraged: In Georgia, mediation is often encouraged in divorce cases to help parties reach a settlement agreement outside of court. This can help reduce the time and cost of the divorce process.
7. Divorce records are public records: In Georgia, divorce records are considered public records and can be accessed by anyone. However, some information may be redacted to protect sensitive information, such as social security numbers and financial information.
Common Questions About Finding Divorce Records in Georgia:
1. Can I access divorce records online in Georgia?
Yes, there are several online resources that can help you access divorce records in Georgia, such as Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, and Georgia’s Virtual Vault.
2. How long does it take to receive divorce records from the Georgia Department of Public Health?
It can take several weeks to receive divorce records from the Georgia Department of Public Health, depending on the method of request and the volume of requests they are processing.
3. How much does it cost to obtain divorce records in Georgia?
The cost of obtaining divorce records in Georgia varies depending on the method of request and the agency you are requesting the records from. Fees can range from $10 to $50.
4. Are divorce records in Georgia sealed?
Divorce records in Georgia are not sealed and are considered public records. However, some information may be redacted to protect sensitive information.
5. Can I request divorce records from any county in Georgia?
Yes, you can request divorce records from any county in Georgia, as long as you know the county where the divorce was filed.
6. Can I access divorce records from the Georgia State Archives?
Yes, the Georgia State Archives has a collection of historical records, including divorce records, that you can access in person.
7. Are there any restrictions on who can access divorce records in Georgia?
In Georgia, divorce records are considered public records and can be accessed by anyone. However, some information may be redacted to protect sensitive information.
8. Can I request divorce records over the phone in Georgia?
Some agencies may allow you to request divorce records over the phone in Georgia, but it is best to check with the specific agency you are requesting records from.
9. Can I access divorce records from the National Archives in Atlanta?
Yes, the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) has a regional office in Atlanta, Georgia, where you can access court records, including divorce records.
10. Can I obtain a certified copy of divorce records in Georgia?
Yes, you can obtain a certified copy of divorce records in Georgia for an additional fee. This certified copy can be used for legal purposes.
11. Are there any restrictions on how I can use divorce records in Georgia?
There are no restrictions on how you can use divorce records in Georgia, as long as you are using them for legal purposes or personal research.
12. Can I access divorce records from the Georgia Court of Appeals?
The Georgia Court of Appeals may be able to provide you with information on how to access divorce records in the state if you are unable to find them through other means.
13. How far back do divorce records in Georgia go?
Divorce records in Georgia date back to June 1952, when the state began keeping vital records.
14. Can I search for divorce records by name in Georgia?
Yes, you can search for divorce records by name in Georgia through various online resources and agencies that maintain these records.
In conclusion, finding divorce records in Georgia can be a straightforward process if you know where to look and how to access the information you need. By following the tips and resources outlined in this article, you can easily locate the divorce records you are looking for. Remember that divorce records are public records and can be accessed by anyone, but some information may be redacted to protect sensitive information. If you are having trouble finding divorce records on your own, consider hiring a private investigator or contacting the appropriate agency for assistance.
Quotes:
– “As a family law attorney, I often advise clients to obtain divorce records as part of their case preparation. These records can provide valuable information about the parties involved and help build a strong case.”
– “As a private investigator, I have helped numerous clients locate hard-to-find divorce records in Georgia. With the right resources and techniques, we can track down the information they need.”
– “As a court clerk, I understand the importance of maintaining accurate and up-to-date divorce records for the public. We strive to provide timely access to this information while protecting sensitive data.”
– “As a mediator, I have seen firsthand how access to divorce records can help parties reach a settlement agreement outside of court. By understanding the facts of the case, we can work towards a fair resolution for all parties involved.”
In conclusion, finding divorce records in Georgia may require some effort, but with the right resources and knowledge, you can easily locate the information you need. By utilizing online resources, contacting the appropriate agencies, and seeking assistance from professionals, you can access divorce records in Georgia and obtain the information you are looking for. Remember to follow the laws and regulations regarding access to public records, and consider the sensitivity of the information you are seeking. Divorce is a personal and emotional process, and having access to accurate records can help you navigate this difficult time with confidence.
