Are Divorce Records Public in Alabama? Access, Costs & Sealing (2026)
Divorce records are public in Alabama under Ala. Code § 36-12-40. Certificates cost $15. Learn how to search, seal, and protect divorce records in 2026.
Filing procedures, timelines, residency requirements, mediation, and everything you need to know to get started.
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Divorce records are public in Alabama under Ala. Code § 36-12-40. Certificates cost $15. Learn how to search, seal, and protect divorce records in 2026.
Alabama requires 6 months residency to file for divorce when your spouse lives out of state, under Ala. Code § 30-2-5. Full 2026 rules, fees, and timelines.
Legal separation in Alabama keeps you married under Ala. Code 30-2-40; divorce ends it after a 30-day wait. Compare costs, grounds, and rights for 2026.
Collaborative divorce in Alabama costs $4,000-$15,000 per spouse, takes 3-9 months, and is governed by Ala. Code §§ 6-6-26.01-26.21 (2014).
Alaska divorce court files are public via CourtView, but divorce certificates stay confidential 50 years under AS 18.50.310. Access rules explained for 2026.
Alaska has no minimum duration residency rule for divorce. You must be domiciled at filing. $250 fee, 30-day wait. Full 2026 jurisdiction guide.
Legal separation vs divorce in Alaska: both cost $250 to file under AS 25.24, require 30-day waiting, and need state residency. Compare grounds and outcomes.
Collaborative divorce in Alaska resolves your case out of court for a $250 filing fee with a 30-day wait. Learn the dissolution process, costs, and how it works.
Divorce records in Alberta are public under the open court principle. A civil file search costs $10; certified copies cost $10 each. Learn how to search and seal.
One spouse must be ordinarily resident in Alberta for 365 consecutive days before filing for divorce. Full 2026 residency, fees, and jurisdiction guide.
Legal separation vs divorce Alberta: separation keeps you married with a $0 court fee; divorce ($260+$10) ends marriage after 12 months apart. Compare both in 2026.
Collaborative divorce in Alberta costs $5,000-$15,000 and avoids court. Learn the process, disqualification clause, and 2026 Family Focused Protocol rules.
Arizona divorce records are public under Supreme Court Rule 123. Learn how to search filings, seal records, and protect data. eAccess copies cost $10 (2026).
Arizona divorce requires 90 days of domicile under A.R.S. § 25-312. Learn residency rules, filing fees ($349-$376), the 60-day wait, and venue for 2026.
Legal separation vs divorce in Arizona: divorce needs 90-day residency, separation needs none. Compare costs ($266-$364), the 60-day wait, and marital status.
Collaborative divorce in Arizona uses Rule 67.1 and a written participation agreement to settle without court. Costs $7,000-$40,000. Full 2026 guide.
Arkansas divorce decrees are public court records at the circuit clerk, but vital-records certificates stay restricted 100 years. 2026 access, fees, sealing.
Arkansas requires 60 days residency before filing and 3 full months before a divorce decree under Ark. Code § 9-12-307. Filing fee is $165 in 2026.
Arkansas separate maintenance keeps you married; divorce ends it. Compare costs ($165 filing fee), 18-month separation rule, and key 2026 legal differences.
Collaborative divorce in Arkansas costs $165 to file and avoids court. Learn the participation agreement, costs, timeline, and how it works in a fault-based state.
Divorce records in BC are restricted by statute, not fully public. Learn access rules, the $200 filing fee, sealing options, and the CRDP $10 search in 2026.
BC divorce requires one spouse ordinarily resident 1 year before filing under Divorce Act s.3. Court fees $200-$330. Complete 2026 residency guide.
British Columbia has no judicial separation: couples separate privately under FLA s. 6, while divorce ($200-$330) requires a 12-month separation and BC residency.
Collaborative divorce in British Columbia settles cases out of court for $5,000-$20,000 per spouse. 2026 guide to the process, costs, and Family Law Act rules.
Divorce records are public in California under the Public Records Act. Learn how to search filings, what's redacted, and how to seal records in 2026.
California requires 6 months state and 3 months county residency to file divorce under Fam. Code § 2320. Filing fee $435. Complete 2026 guide.
Legal separation vs divorce in California: both cost $435 to file, but separation has no residency requirement and no 6-month wait. Full 2026 comparison.
Collaborative divorce in California costs $5,000-$25,000 per spouse, resolves cases in 6-12 months, and avoids court under Family Code § 2013. Full 2026 guide.
Colorado divorce court records are public under Directive 05-01, but vital statistics verifications ($17) stay confidential under C.R.S. § 25-2-117.
Colorado divorce requires 91 days domicile before filing under C.R.S. 14-10-106. Learn residency rules, the $230 filing fee, and jurisdiction requirements for 2026.
Legal separation vs divorce in Colorado: same $230 filing fee, same 91-day residency and waiting period, but separation keeps you legally married.
Collaborative divorce in Colorado is governed by C.R.S. § 13-24-101, requires both spouses to retain collaborative attorneys, and avoids court entirely.
Yes, Connecticut divorce records are public court files—but financial affidavits are auto-sealed. 2026 guide to searching, sealing, and the $25 certified copy fee.
Connecticut requires 12 months residency to finalize divorce under C.G.S. 46b-44, but you can file immediately. Filing fee is $360. Full 2026 guide.
Legal separation vs divorce Connecticut: same $360 fee and 12-month residency, but separation keeps the marriage legally intact. Compare both in 2026.
Connecticut collaborative divorce costs $7,000-$30,000 and takes 3-9 months. Learn the UCLA (Public Act 25-153), the disqualification clause, and the process.
Delaware divorce records are public for inspection, but only parties can obtain copies. Certified copies cost $4.00. Learn access rules, sealing, and privacy.
Delaware divorce requires 6 months of state residency under 13 Del. C. § 1504. Learn filing fees ($175), waiting periods, and jurisdiction rules for 2026.
Delaware offers no formal legal separation. Compare separation agreements vs. divorce, the 6-month requirement, $175 filing fee, and 13 Del. C. rules for 2026.
Collaborative divorce in Delaware costs $12,500-$25,000 per party but resolves cases out of court. Learn the process, costs, and 6-month separation rules for 2026.
Yes, DC divorce records are public under D.C. Code § 2-531. Learn how to search filings free, what stays sealed, and how to seal records in 2026.
DC requires one spouse to be a bona fide resident for 6 months before filing divorce. Filing fee is $80. Learn the domicile rules under DC Code 16-902.
Legal separation vs divorce in DC: both need 6-month residency and an $80 filing fee, but only divorce ends the marriage. 2026 guide to DC Code Title 16.
Collaborative divorce in DC costs $7,500-$25,000 per spouse, resolves in 4-9 months, and keeps 95% of cases out of court. Full 2026 guide.
Yes, Florida divorce records are public under F.S. Ch. 119. Certified certificates cost $5 from Vital Statistics. Learn how to search, seal, and protect them in 2026.
Florida requires one spouse to live in-state 6 months before filing for divorce under F.S. 61.021. Learn the domicile rule, proof, and 2026 filing fees.
Florida has no legal separation statute. Compare separate maintenance under F.S. §61.09 vs. divorce, the $408 filing fee, and 6-month residency rule for 2026.
Collaborative divorce in Florida is governed by F.S. §§61.55-61.58. Learn the team process, $409 filing fee, 6-month residency rule, and timelines.
Divorce records are public in Georgia under O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70. Learn how to search filings, what's redacted, and how to seal records in 2026.
Georgia requires 6 months residency before filing for divorce under O.C.G.A. § 19-5-2. Filing fees run $200-$230. Verify venue, exceptions, and UCCJEA rules here.
Georgia has no legal separation; instead it offers separate maintenance under O.C.G.A. § 19-6-10. Compare costs, timelines, and remarriage rules for 2026.
Collaborative divorce in Georgia costs $5,000-$15,000 vs $20,000+ for litigation, resolves in 3-6 months, and settles 86% of cases without court.
Yes—Hawaii divorce records are public under the UIPA. Learn how to search Hoʻohiki, eCourt Kōkua ($3/doc), what stays sealed, and how to seal records in 2026.
Hawaii requires domicile at the time of filing for divorce under HRS § 580-1. No 6-month wait to file. Filing fees run $215-$265. Complete 2026 guide.
Hawaii legal separation ends after 2 years max (HRS 580-71); divorce is permanent. Compare $215-$265 fees, grounds, and timelines for 2026.
Collaborative divorce in Hawaii under HRS Chapter 658G lets couples settle out of court. Filing fees run $215-$265, no waiting period. 2026 guide.
Idaho divorce records are public via the iCourt Portal, but certificates stay confidential 50 years. Learn access rules, $16 fees, and how to seal records in 2026.
Idaho requires only 6 weeks of residency before filing for divorce, the shortest in the U.S. Filing fee $221, plus county venue rules under Idaho Code § 32-701.
Idaho legal separation costs $207 to file and requires no waiting period, while divorce needs a 21-day wait. Compare grounds, costs, and outcomes for 2026.
Collaborative divorce in Idaho lets spouses resolve disputes out of court using a binding participation agreement. Filing costs $207. Full 2026 guide.
Illinois divorce records are public under 705 ILCS 105/16. Learn how to search filings, costs from $2/page, redaction rules, and how to seal records in 2026.
Illinois requires one spouse to live in the state 90 days before judgment under 750 ILCS 5/401. Filing fees run ~$337-$388. Complete 2026 guide.
Legal separation vs divorce Illinois: divorce ends marriage, separation does not. Filing fees $250-$388, 90-day residency, no time limit on separation.
Collaborative divorce in Illinois under 750 ILCS 90 lets couples settle out of court. Costs $5,000-$25,000, governed by the Collaborative Process Act since 2018.
Indiana divorce records are public unless sealed. Learn who can get certified copies, how to search MyCase, and the clear-and-convincing standard to seal.
Indiana divorce requires 6 months state and 3 months county residency under IC 31-15-2-6, plus a mandatory 60-day waiting period. Full 2026 guide.
Legal separation in Indiana lasts max 1 year (IC 31-15-3-9); divorce ends marriage permanently. Compare costs ($157+), residency (6 months), and process.
Collaborative divorce in Indiana costs $7,000-$25,000 and avoids court. Learn the process, the disqualification clause, and 2026 filing fees ($157-$177).
Iowa divorce records are public once a decree is entered. Learn how to search filings, seal records, and access Iowa Courts Online back to 1998.
Iowa divorce residency requirements: one year of residency, or none if your spouse lives in Iowa and is personally served. Filing fee $265, 90-day wait.
Compare legal separation vs divorce in Iowa: $265 filing fee, 90-day waiting period, 1-year residency, and Iowa Code 598.28 separate maintenance rules.
Collaborative divorce in Iowa lets couples settle out of court with $265 filing fees, a 90-day waiting period, and a binding disqualification clause.
Divorce records are public in Kansas under the Open Records Act (K.S.A. 45-215). Learn how to search filings, seal records, and get certified copies for $20.
Kansas requires 60 days of residency before filing for divorce under K.S.A. 23-2703. Filing fee is $195. Learn domicile rules, jurisdiction, and waiting periods.
Legal separation vs divorce in Kansas: separate maintenance keeps you married, divorce ends it. Both cost $195 to file and need 60 days residency. 2026 guide.
Collaborative divorce in Kansas costs $5,000-$25,000 and avoids court. Learn the process, disqualification rule, and how it compares to litigation in 2026.
Divorce records are public in Kentucky under KRS 61.870. Learn how to search filings, request a decree, and seal records in this 2026 guide.
Kentucky divorce requires 180 days residency before filing under KRS 403.140. 2026 guide to the domicile requirement, filing fees ($113-$250) & jurisdiction.
Legal separation vs divorce Kentucky: separation keeps you married, requires 180-day residency, $148 filing fee, and can convert to divorce after 1 year (KRS 403.230).
Collaborative divorce in Kentucky resolves cases out of court with attorneys, financial neutrals, and a 60-day minimum wait. 2026 guide to costs, rules, and steps.
Louisiana divorce records are public under La. Const. art. XII, § 3, but the decree is limited to eligible persons. Copies cost $10-$25 per parish clerk.
Louisiana requires domicile, not a fixed residency period, to file for divorce. Learn the 6-month presumption, venue rules, and $200-$400 filing fees for 2026.
Louisiana legal separation exists only for covenant marriages. Divorce filing fees run $200-$400; separation periods are 180 or 365 days. Full 2026 guide.
Collaborative divorce Louisiana guide: the UCLA (effective 2024), $200-$600 filing fees, 180/365-day separation periods, and how to divorce without court.
Maine divorce records are public, but financial data, custody, and abuse details are restricted. Certified copies cost $15. Learn access rules, sealing, and privacy in 2026.
Maine divorce residency requires 6 months of good-faith residence under 19-A M.R.S. § 901. Filing fee is $120. Learn the 4 jurisdiction pathways for 2026.
Compare legal separation vs divorce in Maine: $120 filing fee, 60-day waiting period, 6-month residency. Judicial separation under 19-A M.R.S. § 851 explained.
Collaborative divorce in Maine resolves cases out of court for $7,000-$25,000. Learn the process, costs, disqualification rule, and 60-day waiting period.
Divorce records in Manitoba are presumptively public under the open court principle. Learn how to search filings, order certificates, and seal records in 2026.
Manitoba divorce residency requires one spouse ordinarily resident 12 months before filing. Court of King's Bench, $200 fee, 31-day waiting period explained.
Legal separation vs divorce Manitoba: separation needs no court order, divorce costs $200 and requires 12 months apart. Compare costs, timelines, and rights.
Collaborative divorce in Manitoba costs $5,000-$15,000 versus $25,000+ for litigation. Learn the process, costs, and how to settle without court in 2026.
Yes, divorce records are public in Maryland. Search free at Maryland Judiciary Case Search; certified copies cost $5-$5.50 plus 50 cents per page. 2026 guide.
Maryland divorce residency requires 6 months in-state if grounds occurred elsewhere. Filing fee is $165. Complete 2026 guide to FL § 7-101 rules.
Maryland abolished legal separation (limited divorce) on Oct 1, 2023. Compare separation agreements vs absolute divorce, $165 filing fee, and 6-month rules.
Collaborative divorce in Maryland is governed by Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 3-2001. Learn the process, $165 filing fee, costs, and 2026 rules.
Massachusetts divorce records are public by default under M.G.L. c. 208. Learn how to search, impound, or protect records in 2026 — plus the $215 filing fee.
Massachusetts requires 1-year residency to divorce unless the cause occurred in-state. Learn the M.G.L. c. 208 §§ 4-5 rules, $200 fee, and filing jurisdiction.
Massachusetts has no legal separation; couples use separate support under M.G.L. c. 209, §32. Compare separate support vs. divorce, $200 fees, and timelines.
Collaborative divorce in Massachusetts costs $230-$200 to file and resolves cases without court. Learn the process, participation agreement, and 120-day timeline.
Michigan divorce records are public under MCR 8.119 and FOIA. Learn how to search filings, seal records, and access certificates ($34) in 2026.
Michigan requires 180 days state residency plus 10 days county residency before filing divorce under MCL 552.9. Fees from $175. Full 2026 guide.
Michigan has no legal separation—it offers separate maintenance under MCL 552.7. Compare costs ($175-$175), waiting periods (60 days), and outcomes for 2026.
Collaborative divorce in Michigan costs $5,000-$10,000 and resolves cases in 3-9 months without court. Governed by MCL 691.1331 (UCLA 2014).
Minnesota divorce records are public under state law, searchable free via MCRO. Learn what's public, what's sealed, and how to seal records in 2026.
Minnesota requires one spouse to live in-state 180 days before filing for divorce under Minn. Stat. § 518.07. 2026 fees, domicile rules, and exceptions.
Compare legal separation vs divorce in Minnesota (2026): both cost $390-$402 to file, but only divorce ends the marriage. Grounds, process, and key differences.
Collaborative divorce in Minnesota costs $8,000-$15,000 per spouse and resolves in 4-8 months. Learn the process, participation agreement, and costs.
Divorce records are public in Mississippi under the Public Records Act, held by the Chancery Clerk. Learn how to search, request, and seal records in 2026.
Mississippi divorce requires 6 months of bona fide residency under Miss. Code § 93-5-5. Filing fees run $148-$160 in chancery court. 2026 guide.
Mississippi has no legal separation. Separate maintenance fills the gap, while divorce ends the marriage. Filing fees run $148-$160 with a 60-day wait.
Collaborative divorce in Mississippi uses court-adopted rules (effective Aug. 26, 2024) to resolve cases out of court. Costs $148-$160 to file.
Divorce records are public in Missouri via Case.net for cases filed on/after July 1, 2023. Learn how to search, obtain, and seal records in 2026.
Missouri divorce requires 90 days residency and a 30-day waiting period under RSMo § 452.305. Learn filing fees ($102.50-$233.50), jurisdiction rules, and 2026 updates.
Legal separation vs divorce in Missouri: $130-$250 filing fee, 90-day residency, 30-day wait. Compare separate maintenance, conversion rules, and costs for 2026.
Collaborative divorce in Missouri resolves cases out of court in 4-9 months. Filing fees run $133-$225, with a 90-day residency rule under RSMo 452.305.
Divorce records are public in Montana, but courts can seal them for good cause. Learn how to search records, costs ($10 index verification), and privacy rights.
Montana requires 90 days of domicile before filing for divorce under MCA § 40-4-104. Learn residency rules, filing fees ($170), venue, and military exceptions.
Legal separation vs divorce Montana: both require 90-day residency and use no-fault grounds, but only divorce ends marriage. Filing fees run ~$170-$170.
Collaborative divorce in Montana follows the Uniform Collaborative Law Act (MCA 25-40-101). Costs $3,000-$15,000, takes 3-9 months. 2026 guide.
Divorce records are public in Nebraska under Neb. Rev. Stat. § 84-712. Search costs $15 online; certified copies $16. Learn how to access or seal records.
Nebraska requires 1 year of residency before filing for divorce under Neb. Rev. Stat. § 42-349. Filing fee is $164 as of July 2025. Full 2026 guide.
Legal separation in Nebraska has no 1-year residency rule; divorce requires it. Compare costs (~$160 filing fee), the 60-day wait, and § 42-350 conversion.
Collaborative divorce in Nebraska resolves cases in 7 months or less without court. Learn the process, costs, disqualification rule, and 2026 requirements.
Divorce records are public in Nevada under NRS Chapter 239, with copies costing about $0.50 per page. Learn what is sealed, redacted, and how to access filings.
Nevada requires only 6 weeks (42 days) of residency before filing for divorce under NRS 125.020 — one of the shortest requirements in the US. Full 2026 guide.
Legal separation vs divorce Nevada: separate maintenance costs $259 in Clark County, keeps you married for health insurance, while divorce dissolves the marriage.
Collaborative divorce in Nevada uses the Uniform Collaborative Law Act (NRS 38.400-38.575). Filing fees run $217-$299. Complete 2026 attorney guide.
Divorce records in New Brunswick are public but NOT online. Learn how to access files, seal orders, and protect privacy at the Court of King's Bench in 2026.
New Brunswick divorce requires one spouse to live in the province 12 months before filing. Learn the residency rule, $110 filing fee, and process for 2026.
Legal separation vs divorce in New Brunswick: separation needs no residency; divorce requires 1 year and a $110 filing fee. Compare costs, timelines, rules.
Collaborative divorce in New Brunswick costs $110 to file plus legal fees, requires a Participation Agreement, and resolves cases without going to court.
Divorce records in New Hampshire are partly public: names and case dates are accessible, but financial affidavits stay confidential under RSA 458:15-b.
New Hampshire divorce residency requirements under RSA 458:5: one-year domicile rule, three jurisdictional pathways, $250-$282 filing fee, and no waiting period.
Legal separation vs divorce in New Hampshire: RSA 458:26 gives separation the same effect as divorce except remarriage. Filing fees $252-$282. Full 2026 guide.
Collaborative divorce in New Hampshire is governed by RSA 490-J (effective Oct 2021). Learn costs, the disqualification rule, process steps, and how it compares to litigation.
Are divorce records public in New Jersey? Yes, under OPRA and Rule 1:38, with redactions. Learn who can get certified copies, FACTS access ($1/min), and sealing.
New Jersey divorce requires 12 months of bona fide residency under N.J.S.A. 2A:34-10. Learn the domicile rule, $300 filing fee, and adultery exception for 2026.
New Jersey has no formal legal separation, but divorce from bed and board under N.J.S.A. 2A:34-3 is the alternative. Compare costs, $300 fees, and rules.
Collaborative divorce in New Jersey under N.J.S.A. 2A:23D-1 lets couples settle out of court. Filing fee $300, 12-month residency. Full 2026 guide.
Divorce records are public in New Mexico under IPRA (NMSA § 14-2-1). Search online, seal under Rule 1-079, and access certified copies. 2026 guide.
New Mexico divorce requires 6 months residency plus domicile under NMSA § 40-4-5. Filing fee is $137. Complete 2026 guide to jurisdiction rules.
Legal separation vs divorce in New Mexico: $137 filing fee, 6-month residency for divorce (waived for separation), incompatibility grounds under NMSA 40-4-1.
Collaborative divorce in New Mexico costs $3,000-$10,000+ and avoids court. Learn the process, $137 filing fee, 30-day waiting period, and how it works in 2026.
New York seals divorce records automatically under DRL § 235 for 100 years. Learn who can access records, the $30 certificate fee, and how to seal filings in 2026.
New York divorce residency requirements under DRL § 230: meet one of five paths, including a 1-year or 2-year continuous residency rule. Updated 2026.
Legal separation vs divorce in New York: a separation keeps the marriage intact; conversion to divorce now needs only 6 months apart under 2026 law.
Collaborative divorce in New York resolves cases out of court with both spouses represented. Filing fees total $335. Learn the process, costs, and law.
Divorce records are public in Newfoundland and Labrador under the open court principle. Learn how to search filings, request files, and seal records in 2026.
At least one spouse must be ordinarily resident in Newfoundland and Labrador for 12 months before filing. Court fees start at $130. Full 2026 residency guide.
Newfoundland and Labrador has no formal legal separation status. Compare separation agreements vs. divorce, the 1-year rule, and the $130-$280 filing cost in 2026.
Collaborative divorce in Newfoundland and Labrador resolves disputes out of court for $130 in fees vs $15,000-$50,000 for litigation. Full 2026 guide.
Yes—North Carolina divorce records are public under G.S. 7A-109. Learn how to search filings, request certificates ($24 fee), and seal sensitive records in 2026.
North Carolina requires 6 months of residency plus 1 year separation to file for divorce. Filing fee is $225. Complete 2026 jurisdiction guide.
North Carolina has no formal legal separation status. Absolute divorce requires 1-year separation plus 6-month residency. Filing fee is $225 in 2026.
Collaborative divorce in North Carolina is governed by G.S. 50-70 through 50-79. Filing fee is $225, with a one-year separation requirement.
Divorce records are public in North Dakota under NDCC §44-04-17.1. Learn how to search filings, get certified copies, and seal records in 2026.
North Dakota requires the filing spouse to live in-state 6 months under N.D.C.C. § 14-05-17. Filing fee is $160. Complete 2026 residency guide.
Legal separation vs divorce North Dakota: both need 6-month residency and a $160 filing fee, but only divorce ends the marriage. Compare here.
Collaborative divorce in North Dakota is governed by N.D.R.Ct. 8.10. Filing fee is $160, residency 6 months, no waiting period. 2026 guide.
Divorce records in Northwest Territories are public through Supreme Court registries in Yellowknife, Hay River, and Inuvik, subject to sealing orders and fees.
At least one spouse must live in Northwest Territories for 12 continuous months before filing for divorce at the Supreme Court in Yellowknife. 2026 guide.
Northwest Territories has no judicial separation. Separation begins day you live apart; divorce needs 12-month separation plus 1-year NWT residency.
Collaborative divorce in Northwest Territories settles cases out of court for $5,000-$15,000 per spouse. Learn the process, costs, and 2021 Divorce Act rules.
Divorce records are generally public in Nova Scotia, but Family Division dockets are withheld. Learn access rules, the $291.55 fee, and how to seal a file.
Nova Scotia divorce requires one spouse ordinarily resident 1 year before filing under Divorce Act s.3(1). Fees $218-$320. Complete 2026 residency guide.
Nova Scotia has no formal legal separation status. Separation needs no court order; divorce costs ~$292 and requires 1-year residency. Compare both in 2026.
Collaborative divorce in Nova Scotia averages $5,000-$15,000 per spouse and avoids court. Learn the process, costs, and how it compares to litigation in 2026.
Divorce records in Nunavut are public but access-controlled: file Form A to view files. Learn the $10 federal registry rule, CanLII decisions, and sealing in 2026.
Divorce residency requirements Nunavut: one spouse must live there 1 year before filing under Divorce Act s. 3(1). Fees run $150-$260. Full 2026 guide.
Legal separation vs divorce in Nunavut explained: Canada has no formal legal separation, but a 12-month separation is the main ground for divorce.
Collaborative divorce in Nunavut resolves cases in 2-4 four-way meetings without court. Learn the process, costs, disqualification rule, and 92-95% success rate.
Divorce records are public in Ohio under R.C. § 149.43. Learn how to search filings, costs ($1-$3), sealing rules, and privacy limits in 2026.
Ohio divorce requires 6 months state residency plus 90 days in your filing county. Complete 2026 guide to O.R.C. 3105.03, fees ($150-$475), grounds, and timelines.
Legal separation vs divorce in Ohio: separation has no 6-month residency rule, costs $150-$485 to file, and keeps you married. Compare grounds, timelines & costs.
Collaborative divorce in Ohio is governed by ORC 3105.41-3105.55. Learn the team process, costs, disqualification rule, and how it ends in dissolution.
Oklahoma divorce records are public under 51 O.S. § 24A.5. Search free on OSCN, get certified copies for ~$1/page, or seal records with a compelling privacy interest.
Oklahoma divorce requires 6 months of state residency plus 30 days in your filing county under 43 O.S. § 102 and § 103. Filing fees run $183-$268.
Legal separation vs divorce in Oklahoma: separate maintenance keeps your marriage intact while divorce ends it. Filing fees $183-$258, 6-month residency.
Oklahoma adopted the Uniform Collaborative Law Act in 2025 (Title 12 §§ 3301-3322). Learn how collaborative divorce works, costs, and the 90-day timeline.
Divorce records are public in Ontario under s. 137 of the Courts of Justice Act. Access costs $1/page, $25 for a divorce certificate. 2026 rules explained.
Ontario divorce requires one spouse to be ordinarily resident in the province for 12 months before filing. Learn the residency rule, fees ($214), and jurisdiction.
Legal separation in Ontario is free and automatic; divorce requires a court application, one year of separation, and $214+ in fees. Full 2026 comparison.
Collaborative divorce in Ontario resolves separation in 3-4 meetings for $7,500-$25,000 total, far below the $15,000-$80,000 cost of contested litigation.
Yes—Oregon court divorce records are public, but vital records stay confidential 50 years under ORS 432.350. Access, sealing & fees explained (2026).
Oregon divorce residency requirements: 6-month rule for out-of-state marriages, none for Oregon marriages, $301 filing fee, no waiting period under ORS 107.075.
Legal separation vs divorce Oregon: separation needs only current residency, divorce needs 6 months. Filing fee $287-$301. Convert within 2 years (ORS 107.465).
Collaborative divorce in Oregon costs $6,000-$20,000 vs $20,000-$100,000+ for litigation. 2026 guide to the process, $301 filing fee, and ORS 107 law.
Divorce records are public in Pennsylvania under the UJS Public Access Policy. Learn how to search filings, seal records, and access certified copies in 2026.
Pennsylvania divorce requires one spouse to be a bona fide resident for at least 6 months under 23 Pa.C.S. § 3104. Filing fees range $135-$388 by county.
Pennsylvania has no formal legal separation status. Compare separation agreements vs divorce, the $135-$388 filing fees, 90-day and 1-year waiting periods.
Collaborative divorce in Pennsylvania is governed by 42 Pa.C.S. Ch. 74 (Act 55 of 2018). Costs run $7,000-$40,000 with a 90-day minimum waiting period.
Divorce records in Prince Edward Island are presumptively public under the open court principle, but a 30-year privacy restriction limits recent files. Learn how to search and seal records.
PEI divorce requires one spouse ordinarily resident for 12 months under Divorce Act s. 3(1). Filing fee is $100. Full residency and jurisdiction guide.
Legal separation vs divorce in Prince Edward Island 2026: divorce ($100 fee, 1-year residency) ends marriage; separation does not. Compare both.
Collaborative divorce in PEI costs $5,000-$15,000 per spouse vs $20,000+ for litigation. Learn the participation agreement, process, and costs in this 2026 guide.
Are divorce records public in Quebec? Court files are presumed public under art. 11 C.C.P., but art. 16 restricts family-matter access. 2026 fees, rules.
Quebec requires one spouse to be ordinarily resident for 12 months before divorce. Filing fees $108-$241 (2026). Complete residency and jurisdiction guide.
Legal separation vs divorce Quebec: separation from bed and board keeps you married; divorce ends it. Compare CAD $241 fees, grounds, and effects in 2026.
Collaborative divorce in Quebec costs $1,500-$5,000 and avoids court. 2026 guide to the participation agreement, costs, and Civil Code rules by Antonio G. Jimenez, Esq.
Rhode Island divorce records are public under APRA, but child-custody files are sealed. Learn how to search, seal, and get certified copies ($3-$25) in 2026.
Rhode Island requires one year of domicile before filing for divorce under R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-5-12. Filing fee is $120. Complete 2026 residency guide.
Legal separation vs divorce Rhode Island: divorce from bed and board (RIGL 15-5-9) keeps you married; absolute divorce requires 1-year residency, $120 fee.
Collaborative divorce in Rhode Island settles your case out of court. Learn the $120 filing fee, 90-day nisi period, team process, and 2026 rules.
Divorce records in Saskatchewan are public under the open court principle, but not online. Learn access rules, the $10 certified-copy fee, and how to seal a file in 2026.
Either spouse must live in Saskatchewan for 1 year before filing divorce under Divorce Act s. 3(1). Court fees $300-$305. Verified 2026 guide.
Legal separation vs divorce Saskatchewan: divorce costs $300-$300 to file, needs 1-year separation. Separation has no decree. Compare both in 2026.
Collaborative divorce in Saskatchewan costs $300-$300 in court fees and satisfies mandatory dispute resolution under s. 44.01 of The King's Bench Act.
Divorce case records are public in South Carolina, but decrees are limited to parties. Learn how to search, seal, and obtain records in 2026 for $12-$17.
South Carolina divorce residency requirements: 3 months if both spouses live in-state, 1 year if only one does. Filing fee $150. Full 2026 guide.
South Carolina has no legal separation, but offers separate maintenance. Divorce needs 1-year separation. Filing fee is $150. Compare both for 2026.
Collaborative divorce in South Carolina costs $7,000-$25,000 and avoids trial. Learn the process, disqualification clause, and how it compares to litigation in 2026.
Yes, South Dakota divorce records are public under SDCL 15-15A. Learn how to search filings, the $20 PARS fee, sealing rules, and privacy exemptions in 2026.
South Dakota has no minimum residency duration for divorce. Be a resident when you file under SDCL 25-4-30. Filing fee is $50-$50 (2026).
Legal separation vs divorce in South Dakota: $50 filing fee, 60-day wait, no minimum residency. Compare separate maintenance, benefits, and costs under SDCL 25-4.
Collaborative divorce in South Dakota resolves cases out of court for $15,000-$40,000. Learn the process, costs, the 60-day waiting period, and SDCL rules.
Divorce court files are public in Tennessee, but vital-records certificates stay confidential for 50 years under T.C.A. § 68-3-205. Full 2026 access guide.
Tennessee divorce residency requires 6 months in-state if grounds arose elsewhere. Filing fees run $184-$381 in 2026. Full statute breakdown and FAQs.
Legal separation vs divorce in Tennessee compared: Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-4-102, $125-$381 filing fees, 60-90 day waiting periods, and the 2-year conversion rule.
Collaborative divorce in Tennessee is governed by Supreme Court Rule 53 (effective April 1, 2019). Costs $125-$200 in base filing fees plus team expenses.
Yes, divorce records are public in Texas under Gov't Code Ch. 552. Learn how to search, request certified copies ($20+), and seal records in 2026.
Texas requires 6 months state domicile plus 90 days county residency to file divorce under Tex. Fam. Code § 6.301. Fees run $350-$401 in 2026.
Texas does not recognize legal separation. Learn the alternatives, the 60-day divorce waiting period, $250-$401 filing fees, and how to protect yourself in 2026.
Collaborative divorce Texas costs $10,000-$25,000 vs $15,000-$50,000+ for litigation, governed by Family Code Chapter 15. 2026 process, fees, timeline.
Utah divorce records became private on April 1, 2012, but decrees stay public. Learn who can access records, how to search, and how to seal filings in 2026.
Utah requires 3 months of county residency before divorce under Utah Code § 81-4-401. Filing fee $325, 30-day waiting period. 2026 guide to domicile rules.
Legal separation vs divorce in Utah compared for 2026: $325 divorce fee, $35 separation fee, 90-day residency, 30-day waiting period, and statute citations.
Collaborative divorce in Utah is governed by Utah Code § 78B-19-101. Learn the $325 filing fee, 30-day waiting period, and process in this 2026 guide.
Divorce records are public in Vermont, but financial affidavits are confidential under 15 V.S.A. § 662. Learn access rules, sealing, and fees for 2026.
Vermont requires 6 months residency to file and 1 year before a final divorce decree under 15 V.S.A. § 592. Filing fees range $295-$295 in 2026.
Compare legal separation vs divorce in Vermont 2026: $295-$295 filing fees, 6-month residency, 90-day nisi period, same grounds under 15 V.S.A. § 555.
Collaborative divorce in Vermont resolves cases out of court for $5,000-$15,000. Learn the participation agreement, team approach, and 6-month process.
Virginia divorce records are public court documents, but VDH divorce certificates stay restricted for 25 years. Learn access rules, sealing, and 2026 fees.
Virginia requires one spouse to be a bona fide resident and domiciliary for 6 months before filing divorce under Va. Code § 20-97. Full 2026 guide.
Virginia has no formal legal separation decree. Compare separation, bed-and-board divorce, and absolute divorce, with $60-$95 fees and 6-12 month waiting periods.
Collaborative divorce in Virginia is governed by Va. Code §§ 20-168 to 20-187. Learn the process, costs, disqualification clause, and 6-month separation rule.
Yes, Washington divorce records are public under GR 31. Learn how to search filings, what's redacted, and how to seal records. Fees from $314.
Washington has no durational residency requirement. File the day you become a resident. Learn the 90-day waiting period, $200 filing fee, and jurisdiction rules.
Legal separation vs divorce Washington: both cost $200-$200 to file under RCW 26.09, share a 90-day wait, but only divorce ends the marriage.
Collaborative divorce in Washington under RCW 7.77 resolves cases in 4-12 months for ~$10,000, avoiding court. 2026 guide to costs, the process, and the law.
Divorce records in West Virginia are restricted for 50 years, then public. Learn access rules, the $135 filing fee, sealing, and how to search records.
West Virginia divorce residency requirements: 1 year if married out of state, none if married in WV. Filing fee $135 under W. Va. Code § 48-5-105.
West Virginia uses separate maintenance, not legal separation. Compare costs ($135 filing fee), grounds, and outcomes. 2026 statute-cited guide.
Collaborative divorce in West Virginia costs $135 to file under W. Va. Code 48. No UCLA statute, no waiting period. Full 2026 process guide.
Divorce records are public in Wisconsin via WCCA. Learn what's visible online, the $1.25/page copy fee, and how to seal records under Wis. Stat. § 801.21.
Wisconsin divorce requires 6 months state residency plus 30 days county residency under Wis. Stat. 767.301. Filing fees start at $184.50. 2026 guide.
Legal separation vs divorce Wisconsin: $184.50 filing fee, 30-day vs 6-month residency, 120-day wait. Compare costs, conversion rules, and property division.
Collaborative divorce in Wisconsin costs $7,000-$25,000 and avoids court. 2026 guide to the participation agreement, 120-day waiting period, and Chapter 767 rules.
Wyoming divorce case files are presumptively public under W.S. 16-4-203, but financial and child data are sealed. Access, costs, and sealing explained.
Wyoming requires only 60 days of residency before filing for divorce under Wyo. Stat. § 20-2-107. Learn filing rules, fees ($70-$160), and jurisdiction.
Wyoming judicial separation keeps you married while dividing property; divorce ends the marriage in 20+ days. Compare costs ($70-$160), grounds & timelines for 2026.
Collaborative divorce in Wyoming costs 40-60% less than litigation. Learn the process, 60-day residency rule, $70-$160 filing fees, and how it works in 2026.
Divorce records in Yukon are public by default but only accessible in person at the Whitehorse registry ($180 filing fee, no online search). 2026 guide.
To divorce in Yukon, one spouse must be habitually resident for 1 year. Filing fee is $140 at the Supreme Court of Yukon. Full 2026 residency guide.
Legal separation vs divorce Yukon: separation costs $0 and needs no filing, divorce costs ~$140 and requires 1-year residency. Compare both in 2026.
Collaborative divorce in Yukon settles outside court for $140 filing plus legal fees. Learn the process, costs, and how it compares to litigation in 2026.