MEETING OPTIONS DURING THE CORONAVIRUS: The Law Offices of Peter Van Aulen understands your concerns regarding the spread of the Coronavirus, and now offers different meeting options to our clients and those seeking legal representation. All meetings, including initial consultations, can be handled either through the phone, FaceTime, Zoom, or in person.

Divorce Records

Often, once a divorce is finalized, there will be a need to obtain a few copies of the divorce records, including the final order for divorce. Common reasons are to change a party’s name, provide the records to various schools or caregivers if they contain visitation schedules, or even for genealogical purposes or for other research. Divorce records are public records, so anyone can view them and access them. All you need to do to get a copy of NJ divorce records is to follow a few simple steps.

First, you should try to view the records in question to make sure you are looking at the right copy and it is what you want. If the divorce in question occurred after 1992, then you can visit the website for the county clerk in the county where the dissolution of marriage was finalized. You will need to enter the name of at least one party on the divorce record. While you can view these documents, they cannot be printed or used for any other legal purposes, but you can write down the docket number.

Once you have the docket number, you should be able to find out which county the divorce took place in, if necessary. The Superior Court has the key on their website which will tell you the county number. So, for example, a number beginning in 02 would mean it is filed in Bergen County, New Jersey. You can find this information on their website.

You can then request NJ divorce records by contacting the courthouse where the divorce occurred. The request can be made by phone, by written request or in person. Before you can order the documents, you must have specific information to give to the clerk, including:

  • The names of both parties in the divorce, as well as any maiden name, if applicable
  • The county where the divorce occurred and the city in which it was granted
  • The year it happened
  • And photo identification

The price to obtain copies starts from $.05 per page, and most methods of payment are accepted, although cash will only be accepted if the records are ordered in person. If you prefer to request a copy online or through the mail, then you will need to fill out the Records Request Form and mail or email it to the clerk's office. You should also include a self-addressed, stamped envelope that will hold divorce papers when requesting the records by mail. This is how you get plain copies, which are available to the public at large. Only individuals of the parties listed on the divorce certificate, children of either party or their parents can obtain certified copies of the decree. Usually, a certified copy will incur an additional charge, often a $10.00 surcharge on top of the costs per page.

If you want to look up NJ divorce records from before 1992, there is an alternative process. First, records dating from 1901 up to 1992 must be accessed through the New Jersey Superior Court's index, where you will find the file number. You'll need to contact the New Jersey Superior Court Public Information Center, located in Trenton. You can call them directly, at 609-777-0092. For records from before 1900, you will have to contact the New Jersey State Archives. More information is always better, but you should at least know the court location, parties’ names and date of divorce. You can call the state archives at 609-292-6260.

If you have any questions about how to order NJ divorce records or any questions about a New Jersey divorce, feel free to give the Law Offices of Peter Van Aulen a call for a consultation at 201-845-7400.

Client Reviews
★★★★★
Peter has integrity, and values his relationships with his clients beyond his financial relationship with them. For me to say this about any lawyer is really saying something. He is compassionate, straightforward and knowledgeable. I would easily recommend him to anybody. Lewie W.
★★★★★
Peter Van Aulen handled my case with great diligence and integrity. He is also a compassionate individual who realizes what a difficult time divorce can be emotionally. Peter works hard and doesn't take any shortcuts in preparing for a case… I highly recommend Mr. Van Aulen and his staff. Chuck Solomon
★★★★★
Peter is an exceptionally great attorney. He handled my child custody case and was able to ease any of my concerns with honest answers. He always took the time to explain the pros/cons and was always available to answer any questions that I had… I would highly recommend this attorney to anyone who is looking for one. Jessica Cruz
★★★★★
Peter Van Aulen is a very compassionate, honest and straightforward person. He was there for me at my lowest point with a genuine concern not only for my situation, but for me and my child's well being above all… He is fair and he is strong and when push comes to shove he is there for you. Cathy Dodge
★★★★★
Our cousin used Peter's law office to help with a sticky custody situation. He was extremely responsive, very nice and most importantly did an awesome job with the court! He is awesome. Lawrence Polsky

*Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances