What You Will Find in Broward County Divorce Records
This guide explains how to locate and use Broward County Clerk of Courts divorce records. These court files are created when a case is filed in the Circuit Court for the 17th Judicial Circuit in Broward County, Florida. They typically include the petition, response, financial affidavits, settlement agreements or trial orders, and the final judgment. Because each case is handled by the clerk’s office, the contents and access rules are governed by clerk policies, Florida law, and court procedures. This page focuses on practical steps, eligibility, fees, and alternatives when records are restricted or sealed.
Which Clerk of Courts Office Holds These Records
Divorce cases in Broward County are filed in the Circuit Court, 17th Judicial Circuit, Clerk of the Circuit & Comptroller’s office. The clerk maintains case files, dockets, and documents filed with the court. Because the clerk is the custodian of court records, requests for divorce records generally go through the clerk’s office. Note that family court matters in Broward are handled in the county’s Circuit Court, not a separate family court agency.
Key Detail: Record Custodianship and Access
The clerk’s office maintains both paper and electronic records. Some files may be stored off-site or only in electronic format, which can affect processing times. The office sets rules for copying, searching, and retrieving records. If you are seeking records from another county or state, you will need to contact that jurisdiction’s clerk, not Broward.
Public Access Rules and Sealed Records
Florida statutes and clerk policies determine which records are open to the public. Generally, divorce filings are public, but sensitive documents such as settlement agreements, confidential financial schedules, or protective orders may be sealed. Cases assigned to the Family Law Mediation Program or resolved through certain alternative processes may have more limited access. Sealed or restricted records are typically not viewable online or released without a court order.
- Access level: Public for case existence and basic docket information; detailed documents may be restricted.
- Confidential items: Financial affidavits, mediation notes, and settlement terms may be sealed.
- Legal protections: Sealed records require a court order to open, even for involved parties.
Eligibility and Typical Requirements
Members of the public can generally inspect non‑sealed divorce dockets in person. For copies or certified records, the requestor may need to be a party to the case, an authorized representative, or have proper permission. Online portals, if available, often allow only party access or authorized users. Clerks typically verify identity and relationship to the case before releasing records. If you are a third party seeking records, check with the clerk about specific policies and acceptable proof.
Verification and Identity Checks
Clerks commonly require government-issued photo ID and, for sensitive materials, additional verification of authority to access the file. If you are representing an attorney, a signed authorization may be required. For research or statistical requests, written justification or a formal research protocol may be necessary.
Fees, Formats, and Turnaround Times
The clerk’s office charges set fees for searching, reviewing, and copying records. Fees vary by document type and volume. Certified copies of judgments or decrees often cost more than plain paper copies. Payment methods, whether electronic or check, are specified by the clerk. Turnaround times depend on case complexity, record format (paper vs. electronic), and request volume. Expedited handling is sometimes available for an additional fee but is not guaranteed.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Filing Venue | Circuit Court, 17th Judicial Circuit, Broward County | Court Structure |
| Case Types | Dissolution of Marriage (divorce) | Court Docket |
| Typical Public Info | Case number, status, hearing dates, basic party info | Clerk Policy |
| Common Fees | Search, copy, and certification fees; exact rates set by clerk | Fee Schedule |
| Document Availability | Some records online; many documents require in-person or authorized request | Clerk Access Rules |
Practical Steps to Locate Records
To find Broward County divorce records, start by contacting the Clerk of the Circuit & Comptroller for the 17th Judicial Circuit. You can usually begin online by checking the clerk’s case search portal to confirm whether a case is on file and its current status. If you need copies or detailed documents, determine whether an in-person visit, mail request, or authorized electronic submission is required. Include complete case information such as full names, approximate filing date, and case number to speed up the search. If you are not a party to the case, clarify what proof the clerk requires before submitting your request.
Step-by-Step Process Overview
- Confirm the case was filed in Broward County Circuit Court.
- Use the clerk’s online case search (if available) to locate the docket.
- Review access rules: determine which parts are public versus sealed.
- Submit a formal request for copies or in-person inspection, including ID and any required authorization.
- Review fee schedules and payment options before requesting copies or certification.
Alternatives When Records Are Restricted
If a divorce record is sealed, altered, or missing, your options depend on the reason. Some cases remain partially public even when sensitive details are sealed. If filed recently, a case may be incomplete and still in processing. You may contact the clerk to confirm whether a file exists and what access level applies. If you need information that is sealed, you might need a court order or written consent from a party. In very limited situations, information may be available through party-submitted documents that are not sealed, such as filed notices or orders that remain public.
Limitations and Disclaimers
This overview reflects standard practices of the Broward County Clerk of Courts as they relate to divorce records and is accurate at the time of writing. Court rules, fee schedules, and access policies can change. Always confirm current procedures directly with the clerk before making a request. Laws regarding confidentiality, minors’ records, and protective orders may further restrict what can be disclosed. We do not provide legal advice or interpret the contents of specific cases.