St. Lucie Public Records /St. Lucie County Divorce Records

St. Lucie County Divorce Records

What Are St. Lucie County Divorce Records?

St. Lucie County divorce records are official legal documents maintained by the St. Lucie County Clerk of the Circuit Court that document the dissolution of marriage proceedings within the county. These records are created and maintained pursuant to Florida Statutes § 61.043, which governs dissolution of marriage proceedings in the state. Divorce records, legally referred to as "dissolution of marriage" records in Florida, constitute the complete documentation of the legal process that terminates a marriage.

These records serve multiple essential functions for individuals and government agencies:

Legal proof of marital status change
Documentation required for remarriage
Evidence for name change processes
Verification for Social Security benefits
Supporting documentation for loan applications
Required evidence for immigration matters
Historical and genealogical research

The St. Lucie County Clerk of Circuit Court serves as the official custodian of these records, maintaining both the court case files and the final judgments that are recorded in the county's Official Records. Divorce records typically include multiple document types that collectively provide a comprehensive record of the dissolution process.

Are St. Lucie County Divorce Records Public?

St. Lucie County divorce records have varying levels of public accessibility depending on the specific document type and the information contained therein. Under the Florida Public Records Law, Chapter 119, most government records, including court records, are presumptively open to public inspection. However, this general rule is subject to numerous statutory exemptions that apply specifically to family court records.

Court divorce case files in St. Lucie County are generally accessible to the public with important exceptions:

Records containing Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, and certain financial information are redacted pursuant to Florida Rules of Judicial Administration 2.420
Records involving minor children may have restricted access
Cases involving domestic violence may be sealed or have restricted access
Records containing information about victims of sexual offenses are confidential

Certified divorce certificates, which provide official verification of a divorce, have more restricted access. According to Florida Department of Health regulations, these certificates are available only to:

The individuals named in the divorce record
Their legal representatives with proper authorization
Persons with a court order authorizing access

Members of the public seeking divorce records must navigate these access restrictions while understanding that certain sensitive information will be redacted from publicly available documents to protect individual privacy.

How To Find a Divorce Record In St. Lucie County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in St. Lucie County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The appropriate method depends on the specific information needed and the requester's relationship to the case.

For court case files:

Visit the St. Lucie County Clerk of Circuit Court's office in person:

St. Lucie County Clerk of Circuit Court
201 South Indian River Drive
Fort Pierce, FL 34950
(772) 462-6900
St. Lucie County Clerk of Circuit Court

Submit a written request by mail to the above address, including:
- Full names of both parties to the divorce
- Approximate date of divorce filing or finalization
- Case number (if known)
- Requester's contact information
- Specific documents requested
Access the St. Lucie County Court Case Search system online to locate basic case information.

For certified divorce certificates:

Contact the Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics:

Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics
P.O. Box 210
Jacksonville, FL 32231
(904) 359-6900

Submit the required application form with:
- Full names of both parties
- Date of divorce
- County where divorce was granted
- Relationship of applicant to persons named in the record
- Valid photo identification
- Required fee payment

Requesters should note that processing times vary based on the method of request and current departmental workloads. Expedited service may be available for an additional fee.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in St. Lucie County Online?

St. Lucie County provides several online resources for accessing divorce records digitally. These electronic systems offer convenient access while maintaining appropriate privacy protections for sensitive information.

To search for divorce case information online:

Visit the St. Lucie County Clerk's Public Search portal
Select "Court Records Search" from the available options
Create a user account if required for detailed information access
Enter search criteria such as:
- Party names (last name, first name)
- Case number (if known)
- Date range of filing
Review the search results to identify relevant cases
Note that certain documents may require in-person viewing due to confidentiality restrictions

To access recorded final judgments of dissolution:

Navigate to the Official Records Search on the Clerk's website
Select "Official Records" from the search options
Enter search parameters:
- Party names
- Document type (select "Final Judgment of Dissolution")
- Date range
Review and download available documents

Users should be aware that online systems typically do not provide access to complete case files, particularly for cases involving minor children or sensitive information. Additionally, certified copies of divorce decrees cannot be obtained online and must be requested through official channels as described in other sections.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In St. Lucie County?

St. Lucie County residents and interested parties may access certain divorce records without payment of fees through several available methods. While certified copies and extensive document reproduction typically involve costs, basic record searches and limited document viewing can often be accomplished without charge.

Free access options include:

In-person viewing at public access terminals:

St. Lucie County Clerk of Circuit Court
201 South Indian River Drive
Fort Pierce, FL 34950
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
(772) 462-6900

Online case information search through the St. Lucie County Clerk's Public Search portal, which provides:
- Basic case information
- Party names
- Case type
- Filing dates
- Case status
- Docket entries listing documents filed
Public library resources:
- Local public libraries may provide free access to public records databases
- Library staff can assist with navigating available resources
Legal aid organizations:
- Florida Rural Legal Services may assist eligible individuals with accessing necessary records
- Legal aid clinics occasionally hosted by local bar associations

While viewing basic information is generally available without cost, requesters should note that fees apply for:

Printed copies of documents (typically $1.00 per page)
Certified copies of final judgments ($2.00 per certification plus copy fees)
Research assistance from clerk staff for cases without specific identifying information

Pursuant to Florida Statutes § 28.24, the Clerk of Court is required to charge statutory fees for certain services related to court records.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In St. Lucie County

Divorce records in St. Lucie County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the entire dissolution of marriage process. These records contain detailed information about the parties involved, the grounds for divorce, and the court's determinations regarding the dissolution of the marriage and related matters.

A complete divorce case file typically includes:

Petition for Dissolution of Marriage - The initial filing that states the grounds for divorce and requests specific relief
Answer and/or Counter-Petition - The responding spouse's formal reply to the petition
Financial Affidavits - Sworn statements detailing each party's income, expenses, assets, and liabilities
Marital Settlement Agreement - If reached, the document outlining the parties' agreement on division of property, debts, and other matters
Parenting Plan - For cases involving minor children, the detailed arrangement for shared parental responsibilities
Child Support Guidelines Worksheet - Calculations determining child support obligations
Temporary Orders - Court directives regarding support, residence, or other matters during the pendency of the case
Mediation Reports - Documentation of alternative dispute resolution attempts
Deposition Transcripts - Records of sworn testimony taken outside of court
Trial Exhibits - Evidence presented during contested hearings
Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage - The court's final order terminating the marriage and resolving all related issues

The Final Judgment, which is recorded in the county's Official Records, typically addresses:

Restoration of a former name, if requested
Division of marital assets and liabilities
Alimony determinations, if applicable
Child custody and visitation arrangements
Child support obligations
Provisions for health insurance and uncovered medical expenses
Tax exemption allocations for dependent children
Any other matters specific to the case

These records collectively provide a detailed legal history of the marriage dissolution process and the court's final determinations regarding all aspects of the divorce.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In St. Lucie County?

Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in St. Lucie County have several options for obtaining certified documentation that verifies the dissolution of marriage. The type of proof needed often depends on the specific purpose for which verification is required.

For a certified copy of the Final Judgment of Dissolution:

Visit the St. Lucie County Clerk of Circuit Court in person:

St. Lucie County Clerk of Circuit Court
201 South Indian River Drive
Fort Pierce, FL 34950
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
(772) 462-6900

Submit a written request by mail including:
- Names of both parties to the divorce
- Date of divorce (approximate if exact date unknown)
- Case number (if known)
- Copy of photo identification
- Self-addressed stamped envelope
- Payment for applicable fees ($1.00 per page plus $2.00 for certification)
For divorces finalized after June 6, 1927, request a Certificate of Divorce from the Florida Department of Health:

Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics
P.O. Box 210
Jacksonville, FL 32231
(904) 359-6900

The Certificate of Divorce provides official verification of:

Names of both parties
Date of divorce
County where divorce was granted
Type of decree (dissolution, annulment)
Case number

For international use, apostille certification may be required. This additional authentication is obtained through the Florida Department of State after receiving a certified copy from either the Clerk of Court or the Bureau of Vital Statistics.

Requesters should specify the purpose for which the proof is needed, as different agencies and organizations may require specific forms of verification. Processing times vary based on current workloads and the method of request.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In St. Lucie County?

While Florida's strong public records laws generally make court proceedings accessible to the public, certain provisions exist that allow for confidentiality in divorce cases under specific circumstances. In St. Lucie County, parties seeking privacy protections must follow established legal procedures to request confidentiality for all or portions of their divorce records.

Pursuant to Florida Rules of Judicial Administration 2.420, the following information is automatically protected from public disclosure:

Social Security numbers
Bank account numbers
Credit card numbers
Charge account numbers
Debit account numbers
Information regarding victims of abuse
Information regarding minors

Beyond these automatic protections, parties may petition the court for additional confidentiality through:

Motion to Seal Records - Requesting that specific documents or the entire case file be removed from public access
Motion for Protective Order - Seeking court protection for specific sensitive information
Request for Confidential Filing - For documents containing information exempt from public disclosure

The court applies a balancing test when considering such requests, weighing:

The individual's privacy interests
The public's right of access to court records
Whether less restrictive measures would adequately protect the privacy interest
Whether there is a compelling governmental interest requiring confidentiality

Parties should note that even when records are sealed, certain governmental agencies may still access the information for official purposes. Additionally, the court's final judgment dissolving the marriage will typically remain a public record even if other case documents are sealed.

Legal representation is strongly advised for parties seeking confidentiality protections beyond the standard redactions, as the legal standard for sealing court records is substantial and requires specific procedural compliance.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In St. Lucie County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in St. Lucie County varies significantly based on multiple factors, including case complexity, level of agreement between parties, court caseloads, and procedural requirements. Understanding these timeframes helps parties establish realistic expectations for the dissolution process.

For uncontested divorces where parties have reached full agreement:

Simplified Dissolution (no children, no alimony) - Approximately 30 days from filing to finalization
Regular Uncontested Dissolution - Typically 45-90 days from filing to final judgment

For contested divorces requiring judicial intervention:

Moderately Contested (some issues resolved) - 4-8 months
Highly Contested (trial required) - 8-12 months or longer

Factors that influence timeframes include:

Mandatory 20-day waiting period after filing before a final hearing can be scheduled
Required financial disclosure compliance
Availability of mediation appointments
Court calendar congestion
Complexity of asset division or business valuation
Child custody evaluations if ordered
Discovery disputes requiring judicial resolution
Attorney scheduling conflicts
Temporary relief hearings

According to the Florida Office of the State Courts Administrator, the average time to disposition for contested family law cases in Florida's 19th Judicial Circuit, which includes St. Lucie County, is approximately 180 days, though individual cases may vary significantly from this average.

Parties seeking expedited resolution should consider:

Utilizing mediation early in the process
Promptly complying with all disclosure requirements
Considering collaborative divorce approaches
Maintaining realistic expectations about outcomes

The court may expedite cases involving emergency circumstances, particularly those affecting child welfare or safety concerns.

How Long Does St. Lucie County Keep Divorce Records?

St. Lucie County maintains divorce records according to retention schedules established by Florida law and administrative rules. These schedules ensure the preservation of important legal documents while allowing for the eventual disposition of records that no longer serve administrative, legal, fiscal, or historical purposes.

Court case files for divorces are retained according to the following schedule:

Final Judgments of Dissolution - Permanently maintained in the Official Records of St. Lucie County
Complete Case Files - Retained for a minimum of 10 years after case closure pursuant to Florida Rules of Judicial Administration 2.430
Cases Involving Minor Children - Retained until the youngest child reaches majority (18 years) plus an additional retention period
Cases with Continuing Jurisdiction - Retained for 10 years after the date of the last activity

The Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics maintains divorce certificates indefinitely for divorces granted after June 6, 1927. These records serve as the official state verification of divorce and are available through the vital records system.

Digital preservation efforts are increasingly important for long-term record retention:

The St. Lucie County Clerk of Court maintains electronic versions of more recent divorce records
Older records may be maintained in microfilm or paper format
Digitization projects are gradually converting historical records to electronic formats

Individuals seeking very old divorce records (pre-1927) may need to work directly with the St. Lucie County Clerk's office to determine availability, as these records may be archived differently or may have limited indexing available. Special research fees may apply for extensive historical searches.

How To Get a Divorce In St. Lucie County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in St. Lucie County must follow specific procedures established by Florida law. The process varies depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested and whether minor children are involved.

For a simplified dissolution of marriage (available only if specific criteria are met):

Both parties must meet eligibility requirements:
- No minor or dependent children
- No pregnancy
- No alimony request
- Agreement on property division
- Both parties agree the marriage is irretrievably broken
- Both parties will attend the final hearing
Obtain and complete required forms from the St. Lucie County Clerk of Court or the Florida Courts website
File completed forms at:

St. Lucie County Clerk of Circuit Court
201 South Indian River Drive
Fort Pierce, FL 34950
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
(772) 462-6900

Pay the filing fee (approximately $408.00, subject to change)
Attend the required final hearing together

For regular dissolution of marriage:

The petitioner must file:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (with or without children)
- Financial Affidavit
- Notice of Social Security Number
- Additional forms if children are involved
Serve the other party through:
- Process server
- Sheriff's office
- Acceptance of service
- Constructive service (publication) if location unknown
The respondent must file an answer within 20 days
Both parties must complete mandatory disclosure of financial information
Attend mediation if required by the court
Participate in parenting classes if minor children are involved
Attend final hearing (contested or uncontested)

Legal representation is not required but is strongly recommended, particularly for complex cases involving children, significant assets, or disputed issues. The St. Lucie County Clerk's office provides forms but cannot offer legal advice.

How To Get Divorce Papers In St. Lucie County

Individuals initiating or responding to divorce proceedings in St. Lucie County have multiple options for obtaining the necessary legal forms. These documents must be properly completed and filed to ensure compliance with Florida law and local court rules.

To obtain divorce papers:

Visit the St. Lucie County Clerk of Court in person:

St. Lucie County Clerk of Circuit Court
Family Division
201 South Indian River Drive
Fort Pierce, FL 34950
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
(772) 462-6900

Download forms from the Florida Courts website, which provides:
- Form 12.901(a) - Petition for Simplified Dissolution of Marriage
- Form 12.901(b)(1) - Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with No Dependent or Minor Children
- Form 12.901(b)(2) - Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with Dependent or Minor Children
- Additional forms for financial disclosure, parenting plans, and other required documents
Use the Florida Courts Help online system, which guides users through selecting appropriate forms
Visit the St. Lucie County Law Library:

St. Lucie County Law Library
St. Lucie County Courthouse
218 South 2nd Street
Fort Pierce, FL 34950
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Consult with a family law attorney who can prepare and file appropriate documents
Contact Florida Rural Legal Services for assistance if financially eligible:

Florida Rural Legal Services
121 North 2nd Street
Fort Pierce, FL 34950
(772) 466-4766

Individuals should select forms appropriate to their specific situation:

Simplified dissolution forms for qualifying uncontested divorces
Standard dissolution forms for cases with or without children
Supplemental forms for specific issues such as property division, alimony, or child support

All forms must be notarized where indicated and filed with the appropriate filing fees. Fee waivers may be available for those who qualify based on financial need through an Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status.

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