Brevard County Divorce Records
What Are Brevard County Divorce Records?
Divorce records in Brevard County are official legal documents that provide evidence of the dissolution of a marriage within the jurisdiction. These records are maintained pursuant to Florida Statutes § 61.043, which governs dissolution of marriage proceedings throughout the state. Divorce records serve as the authoritative documentation that a marriage has been legally terminated through court proceedings.
The Brevard County Clerk of the Circuit Court maintains these records as part of their official duties. Divorce records typically consist of several components:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- Financial affidavits from both parties
- Marital settlement agreements
- Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage
- Child custody and support arrangements (if applicable)
- Property division determinations
These records serve multiple important purposes for citizens, including:
- Providing legal proof of marital status change
- Enabling individuals to legally remarry
- Supporting name change processes
- Documenting eligibility for Social Security benefits
- Verifying status for loan applications
- Establishing marital status for immigration matters
- Facilitating estate planning and inheritance matters
The Brevard County Clerk of Courts processes and maintains these records in accordance with Florida state law, ensuring their accuracy, accessibility, and preservation.
Are Brevard County Divorce Records Public?
Brevard County divorce records have a nuanced public access status governed by Florida Statutes § 119.01, the state's Public Records Law. While many components of divorce records are accessible to the public, certain elements may be restricted due to privacy concerns and statutory protections.
Court divorce case files in Brevard County are generally considered public records and may be accessed by any member of the public with the following exceptions:
- Records containing Social Security numbers, bank account information, and other sensitive personal identifiers are redacted before public disclosure
- Records involving minor children may have restricted access
- Cases involving domestic violence may have protective orders limiting access
- Records sealed by judicial order for specific legal reasons
Certified divorce certificates, which provide official verification of a divorce decree, have more restricted access. Pursuant to Florida Statutes § 382.025, these certificates are available only to:
- The individuals named in the divorce record
- Their legal representatives with proper authorization
- Immediate family members with proof of relationship
- Individuals who present a court order authorizing access
The Florida Department of Health's Bureau of Vital Statistics and the Brevard County Health Department maintain certified divorce certificates, while the broader case files are maintained by the Clerk of Courts. This dual-custody system reflects the balance between public transparency and individual privacy rights.
Brevard County Clerk of the Circuit Court
400 South Street
Titusville, FL 32780
(321) 637-2004
Brevard County Clerk of Courts
How To Find a Divorce Record In Brevard County in 2026
Members of the public seeking divorce records in Brevard County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The process varies depending on the type of record sought and the requester's relationship to the case.
For court case files containing the complete divorce proceedings:
- Visit the Brevard County Clerk of Courts Records Search portal online
- Provide the necessary search criteria (names of parties, case number, or date range)
- Pay any applicable search or copy fees ($1.00 per page for copies, $2.00 per page for certified copies)
- Receive electronic copies or arrange for physical copies to be mailed or picked up
For certified divorce certificates:
- Submit a completed Application for Florida Divorce Certificate
- Provide valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay the required fee ($5.00 for the first copy, $4.00 for each additional copy ordered at the same time)
- Submit proof of relationship if not a party to the divorce
- Allow 1-3 business days for processing if requesting in person
Requests may be submitted through the following methods:
- In-person at the Brevard County Health Department
- By mail to the Florida Department of Health's Bureau of Vital Statistics
- Online through the VitalChek authorized service provider
- By telephone through VitalChek at 1-877-550-7330
Florida Department of Health in Brevard County
2565 Judge Fran Jamieson Way
Viera, FL 32940
(321) 454-7111
Florida Department of Health in Brevard County
How To Look Up Divorce Records in Brevard County Online?
Brevard County provides digital access to certain divorce records through official online platforms. The electronic search systems allow for efficient research while maintaining appropriate privacy safeguards.
To search for divorce case records online:
- Navigate to the Brevard County Clerk of Courts Records Search
- Select "Court Records" from the available search options
- Enter search parameters such as:
- Party names (last name, first name)
- Case number (if known)
- Date range of filing
- Case type (select "Dissolution of Marriage")
- Review the search results showing basic case information
- Access viewable documents by selecting the case of interest
- Pay any applicable viewing or download fees using a credit/debit card
For certified divorce certificates, online access is available through:
- The VitalChek online portal, the authorized service provider for the Florida Department of Health
- Complete the electronic application form
- Provide identity verification as required by Florida law
- Pay the certificate fee plus an additional processing fee for online services
- Select delivery method (standard mail, expedited shipping, or electronic delivery where available)
Researchers should note that online access to divorce records is subject to the same privacy restrictions as in-person requests. Certain sensitive information may be redacted from viewable documents, and some records may require in-person verification of identity or relationship before access is granted.
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Brevard County?
Brevard County residents seeking no-cost access to divorce records have limited but viable options. While obtaining certified copies typically involves fees, viewing basic record information may be accomplished without charge through several methods.
Free access options include:
-
In-person inspection at the Brevard County Courthouse:
- Visit the Clerk of Courts public access terminals during regular business hours
- Request to view specific case files (providing names and approximate dates)
- Review non-confidential documents on-site without charge
- Note that printing or copying will incur standard fees
-
Public library resources:
- The Brevard County Library System provides free access to public computers
- Library patrons may access the Clerk's public records search portal
- Basic case information can be viewed without fees
- Reference librarians may assist with navigating public records resources
-
Legal aid organizations:
- Brevard County Legal Aid provides assistance to qualifying low-income residents
- Staff may help eligible individuals locate and access relevant divorce records
- Services are provided at no cost to those who meet financial guidelines
Brevard County Law Library
Moore Justice Center
2825 Judge Fran Jamieson Way
Viera, FL 32940
(321) 617-7295
Brevard County Law Library
While viewing basic record information may be free, researchers should be aware that obtaining official copies or certified documents will always involve statutory fees. Additionally, access to confidential or sealed records requires proper authorization regardless of fee status.
What's Included in a Divorce Records In Brevard County
Divorce records in Brevard County comprise comprehensive documentation of the legal dissolution process. These records contain multiple components that collectively document the termination of a marriage and the resolution of associated matters.
A complete divorce file typically includes:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage - The initial filing that states the grounds for divorce and requested 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 - The negotiated terms for division of property and debts
- Parenting Plan - Detailed arrangements for time-sharing, decision-making, and responsibilities regarding minor children
- Child Support Guidelines Worksheet - Calculations determining support obligations
- Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage - The court's official ruling that legally terminates the marriage
- Certificate of Dissolution - The official vital record documenting the divorce
Additional documents may include:
- Temporary relief orders issued during the pendency of the case
- Mediation agreements and reports
- Depositions and interrogatories
- Expert witness reports (financial, custody evaluations, etc.)
- Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) for division of retirement accounts
- Name change orders if requested by either party
The level of detail in these records varies according to whether the divorce was contested or uncontested, whether minor children were involved, and the complexity of the marital estate. Pursuant to Florida Statutes § 61.052, all divorce proceedings must address these fundamental issues before a dissolution can be finalized.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In Brevard County?
Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Brevard County may obtain this documentation through established channels. The type of proof needed often depends on the requesting party's specific requirements.
For certified copies of the Final Judgment of Dissolution:
- Contact the Brevard County Clerk of Courts Records Department
- Provide the case number if available, or names of both parties and approximate date of divorce
- Submit the request in person, by mail, or through the clerk's online portal
- Pay the certification fee ($2.00 per document plus $1.00 per page)
- Present valid photo identification when collecting documents in person
For official divorce certificates:
- Submit a completed Application for Florida Divorce Certificate to the Florida Department of Health
- Provide proper identification and documentation of eligibility to receive the record
- Pay the required fee ($5.00 for the first copy, $4.00 for each additional copy)
- Submit the request through one of the following methods:
- In person at the Brevard County Health Department
- By mail to the Bureau of Vital Statistics in Jacksonville
- Online through VitalChek
For international use, apostille certification may be required:
- First obtain a certified copy of the divorce record
- Submit the certified copy to the Florida Department of State for apostille
- Include the required apostille application and fee
- Allow additional processing time for this secondary certification
Florida Department of Health Bureau of Vital Statistics
P.O. Box 210
Jacksonville, FL 32231-0042
(904) 359-6900
Florida Department of Health Vital Statistics
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Brevard County?
Under certain circumstances, divorce proceedings in Brevard County may receive confidential treatment. While Florida maintains a strong public records tradition under Florida Statutes § 119.07, specific provisions allow for privacy protections in divorce cases.
Situations where confidentiality may apply include:
- Cases involving domestic violence where disclosure would jeopardize safety
- Matters involving minor children where public access would be detrimental
- Proceedings containing sensitive financial information such as trade secrets
- Cases where both parties agree to confidentiality and the court approves
- Situations where a compelling privacy interest outweighs the public interest in disclosure
To request confidentiality for divorce records:
- File a Motion to Seal with the court handling the divorce case
- Demonstrate specific legal grounds for confidentiality
- Request a hearing before the presiding judge
- Present evidence supporting the need for confidentiality
- Obtain a court order specifically directing which records are to be sealed
Even when records are sealed, certain information remains accessible to:
- The parties to the divorce and their legal representatives
- Court personnel with legitimate need for access
- Law enforcement agencies conducting official investigations
- Other individuals specifically authorized by court order
The court applies a balancing test weighing the public's right to access against privacy interests. Confidentiality is not automatically granted and requires substantial justification under Florida law. Partial redaction of sensitive information is often preferred over complete sealing of records.
How Long Does a Divorce Take In Brevard County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in Brevard County varies significantly based on several factors. The timeline from filing to final judgment depends on case complexity, cooperation between parties, and court scheduling considerations.
For uncontested divorces (simplified dissolution):
- Minimum waiting period: 20 days after filing
- Typical completion time: 4-6 weeks
- Requirements: Both parties agree on all issues, no minor children, no alimony claims
For uncontested divorces with a marital settlement agreement:
- Typical completion time: 6-12 weeks
- Factors affecting timeline: Document preparation, financial disclosure completion, court calendar availability
For contested divorces:
- Typical completion time: 6-18 months
- Factors extending timeline:
- Discovery disputes
- Custody evaluations
- Property valuation disagreements
- Expert witness involvement
- Trial scheduling
- Post-judgment motions
According to the Florida Courts Statistical Reference Guide, the average time to disposition for dissolution cases in Florida's 18th Judicial Circuit (which includes Brevard County) is approximately:
- 120 days for uncontested cases
- 270 days for contested cases without trial
- 365+ days for cases requiring trial
Mandatory waiting periods include:
- 20-day minimum from filing to final hearing
- 90-day mediation completion requirement in cases involving minor children
- 45-day financial disclosure deadline after initial filing
The COVID-19 pandemic has created additional backlogs in some court divisions, potentially extending timelines beyond historical averages. Parties seeking expedited proceedings should consult with legal counsel regarding available options under current court operations.
How Long Does Brevard County Keep Divorce Records?
Brevard County maintains divorce records according to Florida's records retention schedules established under Florida Statutes § 119.021. These schedules ensure the preservation of important legal documents while managing storage resources effectively.
Retention periods for divorce records vary by document type:
- Final Judgments of Dissolution: Permanently retained
- Divorce Certificates: Permanently retained by the Bureau of Vital Statistics
- Case Files (complete): Minimum of 10 years from case closure
- Financial Affidavits and Supporting Documents: Minimum of 10 years from case closure
- Temporary Orders: Minimum of 10 years from case closure
- Mediation Agreements: Minimum of 10 years from case closure
The Clerk of Courts maintains records in various formats:
- Recent records (generally post-2000): Digital format with backup systems
- Older records: Microfilm or paper format, with ongoing digitization efforts
- Historical records: Archived with special preservation measures
After the minimum retention period expires, non-permanent records may be:
- Transferred to archival storage
- Converted to space-saving formats
- Destroyed according to secure disposal protocols
Researchers seeking older divorce records should note:
- Records from 1950 to present are typically accessible through standard search methods
- Records from 1900-1950 may require specialized archival research assistance
- Records predating 1900 may be incomplete or require historical research expertise
The Florida Department of State's Division of Library and Information Services oversees the records retention schedules and provides guidance to county clerks on proper maintenance of court records. This ensures that important legal documents remain accessible while balancing storage constraints and privacy considerations.
How To Get a Divorce In Brevard County
Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Brevard County must follow specific procedures established under Florida law. The process varies depending on the circumstances of the marriage and the level of agreement between parties.
For a simplified dissolution of marriage (when both parties agree and meet eligibility requirements):
-
Confirm eligibility requirements:
- No minor or dependent children
- No pregnancy
- No alimony requests
- Agreement on property division
- At least one spouse has been a Florida resident for six months
- Both parties agree the marriage is irretrievably broken
-
Obtain and complete required forms:
- Petition for Simplified Dissolution of Marriage
- Financial Affidavits
- Marital Settlement Agreement
- Final Judgment form
-
File documents with the Clerk of Courts:
- Submit completed forms at the Family Law Division
- Pay filing fee ($408 as of current fee schedule)
- Provide proof of Florida residency (driver's license, voter registration, etc.)
-
Attend final hearing:
- Both parties must appear
- Judge reviews documents and confirms understanding
- Final Judgment signed if all requirements met
For regular dissolution of marriage:
- File Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- Serve petition on spouse through certified process server
- Spouse files Answer and/or Counter-Petition
- Both parties complete mandatory financial disclosure
- Attend mediation (required in most cases)
- Develop parenting plan if minor children involved
- Attend temporary hearings if needed for support or custody
- Prepare for and attend final hearing or trial
- Receive Final Judgment of Dissolution
Brevard County Family Court Services
Moore Justice Center
2825 Judge Fran Jamieson Way
Viera, FL 32940
(321) 617-7254
Brevard County Family Court Services
Fee waivers may be available for qualifying low-income individuals through an Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status.
How To Get Divorce Papers In Brevard County
Individuals initiating or responding to divorce proceedings in Brevard County can obtain the necessary legal forms through several authorized channels. These documents must comply with Florida Supreme Court approved formats to be accepted for filing.
To obtain divorce papers:
-
Brevard County Clerk of Courts:
- Visit the Family Law Division in person
- Request specific forms based on case type (simplified, regular, with/without children)
- Pay nominal fee for printed packets ($5-20 depending on complexity)
- Receive guidance on form completion from clerk staff (procedural information only, not legal advice)
-
Online resources:
- Access forms through the Florida Courts Self-Help website
- Download fillable PDF documents at no cost
- Print completed forms for submission to the court
- Follow included instructions for proper completion
-
Brevard County Law Library:
- Access Florida Family Law Forms books with sample forms
- Use public computers to download and complete forms
- Obtain reference assistance from law librarians
- Pay for printing services as needed
-
Legal aid organizations:
- Brevard County Legal Aid provides form assistance to qualifying individuals
- Community Legal Services offers clinics on divorce procedures
- Pro se litigant workshops provide guidance on form completion
Required forms typically include:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (with or without children versions)
- Financial Affidavit (short or long form depending on income)
- Notice of Social Security Number
- Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act Affidavit (if children involved)
- Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (if children involved)
- Marital Settlement Agreement (if reaching agreement on terms)
- Final Disposition Form
Brevard County Self-Help Center
Moore Justice Center
2825 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, 1st Floor
Viera, FL 32940
(321) 617-7254
Brevard County Self-Help Center
Lookup Divorce Records in Brevard County
Certificates from Florida Department of Health in Brevard County