Are Franklin County Divorce Records Public in Ohio?

Yes, divorce records in Franklin County, Ohio, are generally public records. However, access to these records depends on the specific details requested and any confidentiality orders imposed by the court. According to Ohio's Public Records Act(ORC 149.43), most court documents, including divorce records, are accessible to the public unless they are sealed or otherwise restricted.

Types of Divorce Records in Franklin County:

1. Divorce Decrees are official court judgments that finalize a divorce. They contain details about property division, spousal support, child custody, and other agreements. Divorce decrees are available through the Franklin Court of Common Plea, Domestic Relations Division.
2. Divorce Case Files: These comprehensive files include all motions, petitions, affidavits, and other documents related to the divorce proceedings.
3. Divorce Certificates: Summarized documents issued by the Ohio Department of Health that include the names of the parties, the date of the divorce, and the location of the dissolution.

Who Can Access Franklin County Public Records?

Access to divorce records in Franklin County is generally open to the public. However, restrictions apply based on the nature of the record or legal orders. The following people or entities are eligible for access:

• General Public

Members of the public can access non-sensitive portions of divorce records. However, detailed records exclude sensitive financial information and personal identifiers.

• Parties to a Divorce.

The spouses involved in the divorce have unrestricted access to all case details, including sealed or confidential sections.

• Immediate Family Members

Direct relatives, including children or parents, can access specific documents if they provide proof of a relationship.

• Attorneys

Legal representatives of either party can access case files to represent their clients effectively.

• Government Agencies

Agencies like law enforcement, child protective services, and social services can access records for official purposes.

• Researchers and journalists

While public portions of divorce records are available, sensitive or confidential sections require court approval.

For sealed or restricted records, individuals must provide identification and documentation proving their eligibility or a legitimate reason for access.

Do I Need to State My Purpose and Use When Requesting Divorce Records in Franklin County?

Generally, for public divorce records, you are not required to declare your purpose. However, access to restricted or sealed records may require you to justify your request. Legitimate reasons include:

• Legal purposes include child custody disputes, spousal support modifications, and remarriage documentation.
• Genealogical Research involves tracing family history or lineage.
• Confirming marital status for personal or official reasons.

How do you Request Divorce Records in Franklin County?

Step 1: Identify the Appropriate Office

• Franklin County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Division for divorce decree and case files
• Ohio Department of Health for divorce certificates.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Information.

After identifying the appropriate office, provide as much information as possible to facilitate the search. Such information includes:

• Full names of both parties involved.
• Case number, if available.
• Date or approximate date of divorce.
• Location of the court where the divorce was finalized.

Step 3 Choose a request method.

• Online.
  • Visit the Franklin County Clerk of Courts website for electronic access to public records.
• In-person
  • Visit the domestic relations division in person to request records
• By Mail
  • Send a written request to the appropriate office with the required information and fees.

Step 4: pay the appropriate fees as stipulated.

Step 5: Receive the Records

• Online requests may allow instant access.
• Mail or in-person requests typically have a waiting period.

What Information is Included in a Franklin County Divorce Record?

Divorce records contain the following details:

• Personal Information
  • Names of both parties involved.
  • Date of birth
  • Addresses at the time of filing.
• Case Information
  • Case number.
  • Filing and finalization dates.
  • Court details.
• Legal Agreements
  • Child custody and support arrangements.
  • Property division and spousal support.
  • Any restraining orders or protective measures.
• Final Decree Details
  • The court's judgment and resolution of disputes.

Confidential or sealed Information

• Social security numbers
• Financial account details
• Medical or mental health information
• Information about minors or allegations of abuse.

Fees for Accessing Franklin County Divorce Records

Certified Copy of Divorce Decree: In Franklin County, the cost for an official, certified copy of a divorce decree typically ranges between $25 and $30, depending on the issuing state and court. Certified copies bear an official seal and signature, making them legally valid for official purposes such as name changes, financial matters, or remarriage.

Non-Certified Copies: If a certified copy is not required, individuals may request a non-certified version, which generally costs between $5 and $15. These copies serve informational purposes but may not be accepted for legal proceedings or official documentation.

Search Fee: If the requester does not have complete details of the case, such as the exact filing date or case number, an additional $5 to $10 search fee may be applied. This fee covers administrative costs incurred by court clerks.

• Certified copy of Divorce Decree:$25-$30.
• Non-Certified Copies:$5-$15
• Search Fee: An additional $5-$10 if case details are incomplete.

Payment can be made via:

• Cash(in person)
• Check or Money order (mail requests)
• Credit or debit card (online or in-person requests).

Certain individuals, such as veterans or low-income applicants, may qualify for reduced fees or exemptions with proof of eligibility.

How Long Does It Take to Obtain Divorce Records in Franklin County?

• Online Requests: Immediate for public available record.
• In-person Requests: Same-day service is typically available.
• Mail Requests: Processing may take 5-15 business days, depending on the nature of the request and delivery times.

Rush processing may be available for an additional fee.

Can I Request Divorce Records Online in Franklin County?

Yes, you can request divorce records online through the Franklin County Clerk of Courts website. The system allows access to:

• Divorce decree and case files.
• Non-certified copies for personal use

Third-party sites like Ohiocourtrecords.us offer records, but their accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Official channels should be used for certified or verified records.

Are There Any Exceptions to Accessing Franklin County Divorce Records?

• Sealed Records
  • Cases involving minors, domestic violence, or sensitive custody disputes may be sealed.
  • High-profile cases or records with significant privacy concerns are also restricted.
• Redacted Information
  • Financial, medical, and social security details are removed from public records.

To access sealed or restricted records, you must:

• File a motion with the court.
• Demonstrate a legitimate reason for accessing the records.
• Obtain a court order approving the request.