Divorce records are essential for various administrative and personal purposes such as verifying marital status, genealogy research, and legal proceedings. A Missouri divorce certificate can serve as official proof of the dissolution of a marriage and may be required in numerous situations, making it crucial to understand how to get these records efficiently.
In Missouri, divorce records are available to individuals with a legitimate interest in the records, which typically includes the parties named in the divorce, their immediate family members, and legal representatives. Access may be restricted to protect the privacy of the individuals involved.
When applying for Missouri divorce records, you need to provide certain documents to verify your identity and justify your request. Typically, you will need:
Missouri offers several ways to request divorce records:
To request records by mail, follow these steps:
Divorce records can also be obtained by visiting the Bureau of Vital Records office or local public health agencies. Bring your completed application form, identification, and the required fee.
You can request records online through authorized services like VitalChek. This method is convenient and potentially faster but may incur additional processing fees.
The cost for a Missouri divorce certificate is typically $15 per copy. Additional copies may be requested for an extra fee. Expedited services, available online or by visiting the office in person, might have additional charges.
Processing times may vary based on the method you choose to request the records:
Ensuring the completeness and accuracy of your application form, along with supplying the necessary identification and supporting documents, will help facilitate a smoother process. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, do not hesitate to contact the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services directly. By following these guidelines carefully, you can efficiently obtain the Missouri divorce records you need.
If the event was recorded locally or if you need immediate access to detailed records, it is preferable to contact your county vital records office directly. Find the contact details of your local county vital records office here.
Address | 930 Wildwood, P.O. Box 570, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0570 |
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Phone number | (573) 751-6387 |
Website | https://health.mo.gov/ |