Free Indiana divorce records are official court documents that show the legal end of a marriage. These records include details like names of both spouses, date the divorce was granted, county where it happened, and sometimes child support or property rulings. You can get these records online, by mail, or in person. Most people need them for background checks, remarriage, or legal reasons. This page explains every way to find and request free Indiana divorce records, including official state portals, county tools, and third-party sites. All methods follow Indiana law and protect privacy.
Where to Find Free Indiana Divorce Records Online
Indiana offers several free ways to search for divorce records. The main source is the Indiana Judicial Branch’s official case search tool. It lets you look up cases using names, docket numbers, or lawyer names. Results show case status, filing date, and county. You can also filter by year or court type. Records from 1975 onward are usually online. Older files may be on paper and stored in county offices.
Indiana Courts Case Search Portal
The Indiana Courts Case Search portal is the most trusted place to start. It’s free and run by the state. Enter full legal names of both spouses or their attorneys. You’ll see if the case is open or closed, when it was filed, and which county handled it. If the divorce decree appears, you can view the public parts. Some details, like personal addresses, are hidden for safety.
CountyOffice.org – All 92 Counties in One Place
CountyOffice.org gathers divorce records from all 92 Indiana counties. It links directly to county dockets where available. You can search by name or location and download PDFs of final decrees. Browsing is free. Certified copies cost a small fee, usually $5 to $15. The site also gives mailing addresses and office hours for each clerk.
https://www.countyoffice.org/in-divorce-records/
SearchQuarry – Anonymous Name Search
SearchQuarry lets you search by first and last name without creating an account. It matches names to docket numbers, filing dates, and counties. Each result links to the public part of the decree. A toll-free line (1-800-859-7375) helps with questions. The site logs searches to follow state privacy rules but doesn’t store your personal info.
https://www.searchquarry.com/indiana-divorce-records/
How to Get Certified Copies of Indiana Divorce Records
A certified copy has an official seal and is needed for legal use, like remarriage or immigration. These are not free but cost between $10 and $25. You must request them from the right office. Most come from the county clerk where the divorce was granted. Some go through the Indiana Department of Health.
Indiana Department of Health – Vital Records Division
The Vital Records Section keeps certified divorce decrees. To request one, send a written letter to 2 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204. Include both spouses’ full names, divorce date, your photo ID, and a fee. Processing takes up to 10 business days. Fees vary by county. A 14-day free trial lets you check if the record exists before paying.
https://www.state-divorce-records.com/indiana-divorce-records/
County Clerk Offices – Direct Requests
Each county clerk holds the original divorce file. Call or visit to ask about fees and forms. Marion County charges $12. Smaller counties may charge $5. Bring a photo ID and know the case number if possible. Some clerks accept credit cards. Others need cash or check. Most mail copies within 3 to 5 days after payment.
MyCase.in.gov – Official Court Portal
MyCase.in.gov is Indiana’s free court document site. It shows docket entries and PDF orders. If the full decree isn’t online, contact the county clerk. They can send a paper copy for a fee. The site has tutorials to help you search different counties. Payments are often accepted online.
https://www.in.gov/courts/public-records/
Free Third-Party Sites That Help You Find Indiana Divorce Records
Some private sites collect public records and make them easier to search. They don’t replace official sources but can save time. Always verify results with a county or state office.
PubRecord.org – Marriage and Divorce Together
PubRecord.org lists both marriage licenses and divorce decrees from all Indiana counties. Filter by year, county, or record type. Each entry shows names, dates, and issuing office. Use “Use My Location” to find nearby records. Links guide you to request certified copies directly from clerks.
https://www.pubrecord.org/indiana-marriage-divorce-records/
CountyGovRecords.com – Digitized Files with Preview
This site says many Indiana divorce files are now digital. Enter the petitioner’s name, ex-spouse’s name, county, and year. You’ll see a preview with finalization date and property rulings. Full access costs a small fee. Expedited service is extra. Instructions explain how to download or order mailed copies.
https://www.countygovrecords.com/indiana-divorce-records.html
Special Case: Indianapolis (Marion County) Divorce Records
Indianapolis is in Marion County, the largest in Indiana. Its records are often requested. CountyOffice.org has a dedicated search tool for this area. You’ll see docket numbers, names, and filing dates. Decrees show asset splits, child support, and restraining orders. Certified copies cost $15. Pickup, mail, and phone support are available.
https://www.countyoffice.org/indianapolis-in-divorce-records/
What Information Do You Need to Request a Record?
To get any Indiana divorce record, prepare these details: full names of both spouses, date of divorce (approximate is okay), county where filed, and your relationship to the case. You’ll also need a government-issued photo ID. Some sites ask for your email, phone, and reason for the request. This helps prevent misuse.
Required Details Table
| Item | Why It’s Needed |
|---|---|
| Full Names of Both Spouses | Matches the official record |
| Divorce Date (Year) | Narrows search results |
| County of Filing | Directs request to right office |
| Your Photo ID | Proves identity and prevents fraud |
| Relationship to Case | Shows legal right to access |
Are Indiana Divorce Records Public?
Yes, most Indiana divorce records are public. They are not sealed unless a judge orders it for safety or privacy. Even then, basic info like names and dates may still be visible. Only sensitive details like Social Security numbers or children’s names are hidden. You don’t need to be family to view them.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Record?
Online searches are instant. Certified copies take longer. Mail requests need 5 to 12 business days. In-person pickup can be same-day if the file is ready. Rush service may cost extra. Always call ahead to check wait times.
Fees for Indiana Divorce Records
Free searches are common. Certified copies cost $5 to $25, depending on the county. Marion County charges $12. Rural counties may charge less. Some sites add service fees. Always ask for a receipt. Payment methods include cash, check, credit card, or ACH transfer.
Privacy and Legal Use of Divorce Records
You can use these records for legal, personal, or research purposes. Don’t use them to harass or stalk someone. Indiana law protects personal data. Sites must follow privacy rules. Never share someone else’s record without permission.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t assume all records are online. Pre-1975 files may be on paper. Don’t skip verifying with the county clerk. Don’t use fake names or IDs. Don’t ignore fees—some counties won’t release copies without payment. Always double-check spelling of names.
Helpful Tips for Faster Results
- Use exact legal names, not nicknames.
- Know the county if possible—search by county first.
- Try multiple sites if one doesn’t work.
- Call the clerk’s office during business hours.
- Keep your confirmation number if you pay online.
Related Records You Might Need
If you’re checking someone’s background, you might also want marriage licenses, birth certificates, or criminal records. Many Indiana counties offer these online too. Use the same search tools or visit the Indiana Department of Health for vital records.
Contact Information for Official Requests
For certified divorce decrees, contact the Indiana Department of Health, Vital Records Section, at 2 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204. Phone: (317) 233-2700. Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Eastern Time. Visit in person or mail your request. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for mail returns.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask how to get free Indiana divorce records fast, whether they need permission, and what to do if the record is missing. Below are clear answers based on current Indiana law and official procedures.
Can I get a free copy of a divorce decree in Indiana?
You can view many divorce decrees for free online through state or county portals. However, certified copies with an official seal always cost a fee, usually $10 to $25. Free viewing is allowed for public portions, but only certified copies are valid for legal use like remarriage or immigration. Always check the county clerk’s website or call ahead to confirm current fees and methods.
Do I need to be related to the people in the divorce to request a record?
No. Indiana divorce records are public unless sealed by a judge. You do not need to be a family member or have a legal reason to view them. However, you must provide your name, ID, and contact info when requesting certified copies. This helps prevent fraud and misuse. Some third-party sites may ask why you’re searching, but this is for internal tracking, not legal approval.
What if the divorce happened before 1975?
Records before 1975 are often stored on paper in county clerk offices and not available online. You must contact the specific county clerk where the divorce was granted. They will tell you if the file exists and how to request it. Processing may take longer, and fees still apply for certified copies. Some counties have started digitizing old files, so it’s worth asking.
Why can’t I find a divorce record online?
Not all counties upload every case. Some only post recent filings. Others require a docket number. Try searching by exact names, check spelling, and verify the correct county. If nothing appears, call the clerk’s office. The record may be under a different name or still in processing. Also, very new cases may take days to appear online.
Is it legal to use a third-party site to search for divorce records?
Yes, as long as the site follows Indiana privacy laws. These sites collect public data and make it easier to search. They cannot charge for viewing public info, but may charge for certified copies or extra services. Always cross-check results with an official source like the county clerk or state portal to ensure accuracy.
How do I know if a divorce record is certified?
A certified copy has an official seal or stamp from the issuing office, such as the county clerk or state health department. It will say “Certified True Copy” and include a signature or raised seal. Uncertified printouts from websites are not valid for legal use. Only certified copies can be used in court, for remarriage, or with government agencies.
Can I request a divorce record by mail?
Yes. Send a written request to the county clerk or Indiana Department of Health with names, dates, your ID copy, fee, and return envelope. Include your phone number in case they need to call. Processing times vary. Mail is slower than in-person but works for most requests. Always keep a copy of your letter and receipt.