Virginia Divorce Records

Virginia Public Records /Virginia Divorce Records

Are Divorce Records Public in Virginia?

Yes, divorce records are public in Virginia. The Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) ensures that the public has access to a wide range of government records, including divorce records. This means that anyone can request and obtain copies of divorce records filed within the state.

The availability of divorce records to the public serves several important purposes. It promotes transparency and accountability within the legal system, allowing individuals to verify the legitimacy of divorce proceedings and ensure that their own rights and interests are protected. Public access to divorce records also facilitates genealogical research and the tracing of family histories.

However, it is important to note that while divorce records are generally public, certain details may be redacted or restricted to protect sensitive information. For example, personal identifying information such as Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and the names of minor children may be withheld to safeguard privacy.

What Is Included in Divorce Record in Virginia?

Divorce records in Virginia typically include essential information related to the dissolution of a marriage. These records commonly contain details such as the names of the individuals involved in the divorce, the date of the divorce, and the court where the divorce was finalized. Additionally, divorce records may include information about child custody arrangements, property division, and any spousal support or alimony agreements.

It is worth mentioning that the specific content of divorce records can vary depending on the circumstances of each case. Some divorce records may be more extensive and include additional documents such as settlement agreements, parenting plans, and court orders related to the divorce.

How to Get Divorce Records in Virginia in 2024

To obtain divorce records in Virginia in 2024, there are several options available:

In-Person: Visit the Circuit Court Clerk's Office in the county where the divorce was granted. Request the divorce records from the clerk, providing the necessary information such as the names of the parties involved and the date of the divorce.
Mail: Send a written request to the Circuit Court Clerk's Office along with the required information and a self-addressed stamped envelope. The clerk will process the request and mail the divorce records to the provided address.
Online: Some Circuit Court Clerk's Offices may offer online access to divorce records. Check the official website of the relevant court to see if online access is available. If so, follow the instructions provided to search and obtain the desired divorce records.

It is important to note that while some divorce records may be available online, not all records may be accessible through this method. In such cases, visiting the Circuit Court Clerk's Office in person or submitting a request via mail may be necessary.

Obtaining divorce records may require a small fee, which can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the requested documents. Additionally, it is advisable to check the specific requirements and procedures of the respective Circuit Court Clerk's Office for accurate and up-to-date information on obtaining divorce records in Virginia.

Virginia Divorce Records

Are Divorce Records Public in Virginia?

What Is Included in Divorce Record in Virginia?

How to Get Divorce Records in Virginia in 2024

Lookup Divorce Records in Virginia