Los Angeles County Divorce Records
What Are Los Angeles County Divorce Records?
Divorce records in Los Angeles County are official legal documents that provide evidence of the dissolution of a marriage within the county's jurisdiction. These records are maintained by the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles, not by the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk as is commonly misunderstood. Pursuant to California Family Code § 2300, a judgment of dissolution of marriage restores the parties to the status of unmarried persons.
Los Angeles County divorce records typically include:
- Final Judgment of Dissolution (divorce decree)
- Court orders regarding property division
- Child custody and support arrangements
- Spousal support determinations
- Name change authorizations (if applicable)
It is important to note that the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk does not maintain divorce records for the county. All inquiries regarding divorce documents should be directed to the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles.
For historical divorce records from 1962 to June 1984, the California Department of Public Health Vital Records (CDPH-VR) maintains a limited index of divorce certificates that can be requested by eligible individuals.
Are Los Angeles County Divorce Records Public?
Los Angeles County divorce records are generally considered public records in accordance with California Government Code § 6250-6270, also known as the California Public Records Act. However, access to these records is subject to certain limitations and restrictions.
Members of the public may access the following information:
- Case number
- Names of parties involved
- Filing date
- General case status
- Judgment date (if applicable)
Certain sensitive information contained within divorce files may be redacted or restricted from public view, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Financial account information
- Minor children's identifying information
- Allegations of domestic violence
- Restraining orders
- Confidential settlement agreements
In accordance with California Rules of Court, Rule 2.550, a court may order that a record be filed under seal only if it expressly finds facts that establish:
- There exists an overriding interest that overcomes the right of public access
- The overriding interest supports sealing the record
- A substantial probability exists that the overriding interest will be prejudiced if the record is not sealed
- The proposed sealing is narrowly tailored
- No less restrictive means exist to achieve the overriding interest
Individuals seeking access to Los Angeles County divorce records must follow established procedures through the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles.
How To Find a Divorce Record In Los Angeles County in 2025
Locating divorce records in Los Angeles County requires contacting the appropriate government agency based on when the divorce was finalized. The process varies depending on the time period of the divorce.
For divorces finalized after June 1984:
- Contact the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles where the divorce was filed
- Provide the case number (if known) or names of both parties and approximate date of divorce
- Submit a request for copies of divorce judgment documents through the Los Angeles Superior Court's online system
- Pay the required fees (currently $15.00 for certified copies of judgment documents)
For divorces finalized between 1962 and June 1984:
- Contact the California Department of Public Health Vital Records (CDPH-VR)
- Complete application form VS 113b
- Include required identification and payment
- Submit request by mail to:
California Department of Public Health Vital Records
MS 5103
P.O. Box 997410
Sacramento, CA 95899-7410
(916) 445-2684
California Department of Public Health
For divorces finalized before 1962:
- Contact the Superior Court in the county where the divorce was granted
- Provide as much information as possible about the case
- Be prepared to visit the courthouse in person if records are only available in physical archives
Requestors should note that processing times may vary depending on workload and staffing levels at each agency.
How To Look Up Divorce Records in Los Angeles County Online?
The Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles offers online access to limited divorce record information through their electronic systems. Members of the public may utilize these resources to locate basic case information and order copies of documents.
To search for divorce records online:
- Visit the Los Angeles Superior Court's online services portal
- Select "Civil Case Document Images" from the available options
- Create an account or log in as a guest user
- Enter search criteria (case number, party names, or filing date)
- Review search results for basic case information
- Order copies of available documents for a fee
For obtaining certified copies of divorce judgments online:
- Access the Los Angeles Superior Court's Document Ordering System
- Select "Divorce/Family Law Judgment Documents" from the menu
- Enter the required case information
- Pay the applicable fees via credit card
- Choose delivery method (mail or electronic delivery where available)
Users should be aware of the following limitations:
- Not all documents within a divorce case file are available online
- Older cases (typically pre-2000) may have limited or no online accessibility
- Confidential or sealed documents cannot be accessed through the online system
- Fees apply for document copies ($15.00 for most certified copies)
The online system operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, except during scheduled maintenance periods.
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Los Angeles County?
While obtaining official copies of divorce records in Los Angeles County typically involves fees, there are limited options for accessing basic divorce record information at no cost.
Free options for divorce record information include:
-
Public access terminals at Los Angeles Superior Court locations:
- Stanley Mosk Courthouse 111 North Hill Street Los Angeles, CA 90012 (213) 830-0800
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- These terminals allow basic case searches without charge
-
Case summary information available through the court's public case access system:
- Limited to basic case information (parties, filing date, case status)
- Does not include document images or detailed orders
- Available at Los Angeles Superior Court website
-
California Department of Public Health Vital Records index:
- For divorces between 1962-1984
- Provides verification of divorce without detailed documents
- CDPH Vital Records information
Individuals should note that while basic information may be available without charge, obtaining certified copies or complete divorce records will require payment of established fees pursuant to California Government Code § 70627. Fee waivers may be available for qualifying low-income individuals through the court's fee waiver program.
What's Included in a Divorce Records In Los Angeles County
Divorce records in Los Angeles County contain comprehensive documentation of the legal dissolution of marriage. These records are maintained by the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles in accordance with California Family Code § 2100-2113.
A complete divorce file typically contains:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (Form FL-100)
- Summons (Form FL-110)
- Response to Petition (Form FL-120), if filed
- Declaration of Disclosure (Forms FL-140, FL-150, FL-142)
- Proof of Service documents
- Judgment of Dissolution (Form FL-180)
- Notice of Entry of Judgment (Form FL-190)
- Marital Settlement Agreement (if applicable)
- Child Custody and Visitation Order (Form FL-341), if children involved
- Child Support Information and Order Attachment (Form FL-342), if applicable
- Spousal or Partner Support Order Attachment (Form FL-343), if applicable
- Property Order Attachment (Form FL-345), if applicable
The Judgment of Dissolution, which is the final decree, typically includes:
- Termination date of marital status
- Division of community property and debts
- Child custody and visitation arrangements
- Child support provisions
- Spousal support determinations
- Name change authorization (if requested)
- Other court orders specific to the case
Certain sensitive information may be redacted from publicly accessible copies in compliance with California Rules of Court, Rule 2.550-2.551, to protect privacy interests.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In Los Angeles County?
Individuals requiring proof of divorce in Los Angeles County may obtain official documentation through established procedures with the appropriate government agencies. The type of proof needed often depends on the purpose for which it will be used.
For certified copies of divorce judgments (most commonly accepted form of proof):
- Submit a request to the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles through their Document Ordering System
- Provide the case number, names of parties, and date of judgment (if known)
- Pay the required fee ($15.00 per certified copy)
- Indicate preferred delivery method (mail or electronic delivery where available)
For Certificate of Record of Divorce (for divorces between 1962-1984):
- Complete application form VS 113b
- Include copy of government-issued photo ID
- Submit $15.00 fee (check or money order)
- Mail request to:
California Department of Public Health Vital Records
MS 5103
P.O. Box 997410
Sacramento, CA 95899-7410
(916) 445-2684
California Department of Public Health
For in-person requests at the courthouse:
- Visit the courthouse where the divorce was finalized
- Complete a records request form at the clerk's office
- Provide identification and case information
- Pay applicable fees
- Wait for processing (same-day service may be available for some requests)
Processing times vary based on the method of request and current workload. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee in certain circumstances.
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Los Angeles County?
Under limited circumstances, divorce proceedings in Los Angeles County may be granted confidential status. California law provides specific provisions for maintaining privacy in divorce cases while balancing the public's right to access court records.
Circumstances where confidentiality may be granted include:
- Cases involving domestic violence (pursuant to California Family Code § 6200-6219)
- Matters affecting the safety and welfare of minor children
- Protection of sensitive financial information
- Prevention of identity theft
- Cases involving public figures where publicity would cause undue harm
To request confidentiality in a divorce proceeding:
- File a motion with the court requesting sealing of records
- Demonstrate compelling reasons that override the presumption of public access
- Specify exactly which documents or information should be sealed
- Show that sealing is narrowly tailored to protect legitimate privacy interests
The court will evaluate requests for confidentiality based on the standards established in California Rules of Court, Rule 2.550, which requires finding:
- An overriding interest supporting sealing
- A substantial probability of prejudice to that interest if records remain public
- No less restrictive means to protect the interest
- Narrow tailoring of the sealing order
Even when certain documents are sealed, basic case information (names of parties, case number, and general status) typically remains accessible to the public unless extraordinary circumstances exist.
Parties seeking confidentiality should consult with legal counsel regarding the specific requirements and likelihood of success for their particular situation.
How Long Does a Divorce Take In Los Angeles County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in Los Angeles County varies based on several factors, including case complexity, cooperation between parties, and court caseload. California law establishes minimum timeframes that apply to all divorces within the state.
Pursuant to California Family Code § 2339, there is a mandatory six-month waiting period from the date of service of the Petition for Dissolution before a divorce can be finalized. This waiting period, known as the "cooling off period," applies even in cases where both parties agree to all terms.
Typical timeframes for Los Angeles County divorces:
- Uncontested divorces with complete agreement: 6-8 months from filing
- Contested divorces with limited disputes: 8-12 months
- Complex contested divorces (significant assets, custody disputes): 18 months or longer
- Cases requiring trial: 18-24 months or longer
Factors that may extend the duration include:
- Difficulty serving divorce papers on the respondent
- Discovery disputes and delays in financial disclosure
- Court congestion and scheduling limitations
- Requests for continuances by either party
- Complexity of property division or custody arrangements
- Need for expert witnesses or evaluations
The Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles has implemented case management procedures to promote timely resolution of divorce cases, including status conferences and mandatory settlement conferences. However, the court's high volume of cases can impact scheduling and processing times.
How Long Does Los Angeles County Keep Divorce Records?
Los Angeles County maintains divorce records permanently in accordance with California Government Code § 68152 and the Judicial Council of California's Records Retention and Destruction Schedule. These records are preserved for both historical and legal purposes.
The retention schedule for divorce records includes:
- Case files: Permanent retention
- Judgments: Permanent retention
- Court orders: Permanent retention
- Exhibits: Variable retention (typically returned to parties after appeal period)
- Audio/video recordings: Variable retention (typically 5-10 years)
While records are maintained permanently, the accessibility and format of older records may vary:
- Recent records (typically post-2000): Available electronically
- Older records (1980s-2000): May be on microfilm or in physical archives
- Historical records (pre-1980s): Often in physical archives, may require special handling
The Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles maintains these records at various facilities:
Stanley Mosk Courthouse - Archives Division
111 North Hill Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(213) 830-0800
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
For divorces between 1962 and June 1984, the California Department of Public Health Vital Records also maintains a Certificate of Record of Divorce, which provides limited information confirming the divorce occurred.
Individuals seeking historical divorce records should be prepared for potentially longer processing times and may need to provide additional identifying information to locate older files.
How To Get a Divorce In Los Angeles County
Initiating divorce proceedings in Los Angeles County requires following specific legal procedures established under California Family Code. The process begins with filing the appropriate documents and continues through several required steps.
To commence a divorce in Los Angeles County:
-
Prepare and file initial documents with the Superior Court:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (Form FL-100)
- Summons (Form FL-110)
- Property Declaration (Form FL-160), if applicable
- Declaration Under Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act (Form FL-105), if children involved
-
Pay the filing fee (currently $435) or request a fee waiver if eligible
-
Serve the divorce papers on your spouse:
- Use a professional process server, sheriff, or any adult not involved in the case
- Have server complete Proof of Service (Form FL-115)
- File the completed Proof of Service with the court
-
Wait for response (respondent has 30 days to file)
-
Complete and exchange financial disclosures:
- Declaration of Disclosure (Form FL-140)
- Income and Expense Declaration (Form FL-150)
- Schedule of Assets and Debts (Form FL-142)
-
Resolve issues through agreement or court proceedings:
- Property division
- Child custody and visitation
- Child support
- Spousal support
-
Finalize the divorce:
- Prepare Judgment documents (Form FL-180 and attachments)
- Submit to court for approval
- Wait for judge's signature
The main courthouse locations handling divorce cases in Los Angeles County are:
Stanley Mosk Courthouse
111 North Hill Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(213) 830-0800
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Governor George Deukmejian Courthouse
275 Magnolia Avenue
Long Beach, CA 90802
(562) 256-2300
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Individuals may also access self-help resources through the court's Family Law Self-Help Centers.
How To Get Divorce Papers In Los Angeles County
Obtaining divorce papers in Los Angeles County can be accomplished through several methods, depending on whether an individual is initiating a new divorce case or seeking copies from an existing or completed case.
For initiating a new divorce:
-
Access forms through the California Courts website:
- Download and print required forms
- Complete forms according to instructions
- Forms available in English and Spanish
-
Visit a Los Angeles Superior Court Self-Help Center:
- Receive assistance with form completion
- Obtain guidance on filing procedures
- No appointment necessary, but arrive early
Stanley Mosk Courthouse - Self-Help Center
111 North Hill Street, Room 115
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(213) 830-0845
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM -
Purchase forms at courthouse filing offices:
- Basic divorce packet available for a nominal fee
- Individual forms also available
- Staff cannot provide legal advice
For obtaining copies from existing divorce cases:
-
Request copies through the Los Angeles Superior Court's Document Ordering System:
- Provide case number or names of parties
- Pay required fees ($15.00 for certified copies)
- Choose delivery method
-
Visit the courthouse where the case was filed:
- Complete records request form
- Present identification
- Pay applicable fees
-
Mail a written request to the appropriate courthouse:
- Include case information, specific documents needed
- Enclose payment and self-addressed stamped envelope
- Allow 4-6 weeks for processing
All divorce forms must comply with California Rules of Court and Los Angeles County Local Rules. Forms that do not meet requirements may be rejected by the court clerk.
Lookup Divorce Records in Los Angeles County
Request divorce records online
Search Los Angeles court records
Find historical divorce certificates