St. Louis County Divorce Records
What Are St. Louis County Divorce Records?
Divorce records in St. Louis County are official legal documents that provide evidence of the dissolution of a marriage within the jurisdiction. These records are maintained pursuant to Missouri Revised Statutes § 452.310, which governs dissolution of marriage proceedings in the state. Divorce records typically consist of multiple documents filed throughout the divorce process, from the initial petition to the final judgment.
The St. Louis County Circuit Court, operating under the authority of the 21st Judicial Circuit of Missouri, maintains these records as part of its official court documentation. Divorce records serve multiple essential purposes:
- Legal proof of marital status change
- Documentation required for remarriage
- Evidence for name change processes
- Verification for Social Security benefits claims
- Supporting documentation for loan applications
- Required evidence for immigration matters
- Historical and genealogical research
These records contain sensitive personal information and are subject to specific access regulations under Missouri law, balancing the public's right to information with individual privacy concerns.
Are St. Louis County Divorce Records Public?
St. Louis County divorce records have a dual status regarding public accessibility. Court divorce case files are generally available for public inspection under the Missouri Sunshine Law § 610.011, which establishes the presumption that government records are open to the public. However, this access is subject to important limitations and exceptions.
The following components of divorce records are typically accessible to the public:
- Case numbers and docket information
- Names of parties involved
- Filing dates and court appearances
- Final judgment of dissolution
Conversely, certain components may be restricted from public view:
- Financial affidavits and statements
- Child custody evaluations
- Records containing Social Security numbers
- Documents sealed by judicial order
- Records involving domestic violence where protective orders exist
Certified divorce certificates, which provide official verification of a divorce, have more restricted access. Pursuant to Missouri Revised Statutes § 193.255, these certificates are available only to:
- The parties named in the divorce
- Their immediate family members
- Legal representatives with proper authorization
- Individuals who can demonstrate a direct and tangible interest
The St. Louis County Circuit Court and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services maintain these records and enforce the applicable access restrictions.
How To Find a Divorce Record In St. Louis County in 2026
Members of the public seeking divorce records in St. Louis County may utilize several official channels to locate these documents. The primary methods include:
- St. Louis County Circuit Court Records
- Visit the Circuit Clerk's Office in person
- Provide the names of both parties and approximate date of divorce
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay applicable search and copy fees
St. Louis County Circuit Court
105 South Central Avenue
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 615-8029
St. Louis County Circuit Court
- Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
- Submit a completed application for a certified copy of divorce record
- Provide required identification documents
- Include appropriate processing fee
- Submit request by mail or in person
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
Bureau of Vital Records
930 Wildwood Drive
Jefferson City, MO 65109
(573) 751-6387
Missouri Bureau of Vital Records
- St. Louis County Recorder of Deeds
- For divorce records from 1805 to present
- Provide names of parties and approximate date of divorce
- Pay applicable search and copy fees
St. Louis County Recorder of Deeds
41 South Central Avenue
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 615-7039
St. Louis County Recorder of Deeds
Requestors should note that processing times vary depending on the method chosen and the age of the record being sought.
How To Look Up Divorce Records in St. Louis County Online?
St. Louis County provides several digital resources for accessing divorce records online. These electronic systems offer convenience while maintaining compliance with privacy regulations.
The primary online access points include:
-
Missouri Case.net
- Navigate to the Missouri Courts Case.net portal
- Select "Litigant Name Search" from the available options
- Enter the name of either party to the divorce
- Filter results by selecting "St. Louis County" and "Domestic Relations" case types
- Review the list of matching cases for relevant divorce proceedings
- Note that only basic case information is available online; full documents require in-person requests
-
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Online Portal
- Access the Missouri Vital Records ordering system
- Create an account or log in to existing account
- Select "Divorce Certificate" from the document options
- Provide required information including names, date of divorce, and county
- Pay the applicable fee using a credit/debit card
- Certified copies will be mailed to the address provided
-
VitalChek Network
- Visit the VitalChek website
- Select "Missouri" and then "Divorce Certificate"
- Enter required information about the divorce record
- Provide identification verification as prompted
- Pay processing and expedited service fees if applicable
- Choose delivery method for the certificate
Users should be aware that online access to divorce records is limited to basic information in compliance with privacy laws. Sensitive personal information and sealed records are not available through these online systems.
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In St. Louis County?
Members of the public seeking no-cost access to divorce records in St. Louis County have limited but viable options. The following methods provide free access to basic divorce record information:
- In-Person Court Record Inspection
- Visit the St. Louis County Circuit Court Clerk's Office
- Request to view publicly available divorce case files
- Provide case number or names of parties involved
- While viewing records is free, copying services incur standard fees
St. Louis County Circuit Court
105 South Central Avenue
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 615-8029
St. Louis County Circuit Court
-
Missouri Case.net Basic Search
- Access the Missouri Courts Case.net portal
- Use the public access search function without creating an account
- Search by party name to locate divorce cases
- View basic case information including filing date, case type, and disposition
- Note that document images are not available through this free service
-
St. Louis County Law Library
- Visit the Law Library located in the St. Louis County Courthouse
- Request assistance in locating divorce records
- Use public access terminals to search court databases
- Research historical divorce records in archived materials
St. Louis County Law Library
105 South Central Avenue, 5th Floor
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 615-8585
St. Louis County Law Library
- Public Library Resources
- Visit St. Louis County Library branches with genealogy departments
- Access newspaper archives that may contain divorce announcements
- Utilize library computers to access public records databases
Researchers should be aware that while basic record access may be free, comprehensive divorce documentation typically requires payment of statutory fees. Additionally, records that have been sealed by court order or contain confidential information will not be accessible through these free methods.
What's Included in a Divorce Records In St. Louis County
Divorce records in St. Louis County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the legal dissolution of marriage. Pursuant to Missouri Revised Statutes § 452.305, these records contain specific elements required by state law. The complete divorce file typically includes:
-
Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- Names and addresses of both parties
- Date and place of marriage
- Date of separation
- Names and ages of minor children
- Statement regarding residency requirements
- Grounds for divorce under Missouri law
-
Service of Process Documentation
- Proof that respondent received legal notice
- Waiver of service if applicable
- Publication notices if respondent could not be located
-
Financial Disclosure Statements
- Income information for both parties
- Asset and property inventories
- Debt schedules
- Expense declarations
-
Parenting Plans (when children are involved)
- Custody arrangements
- Visitation schedules
- Decision-making authority
- Child support calculations
-
Property Settlement Agreements
- Division of marital assets
- Allocation of debts and liabilities
- Disposition of the marital home
- Distribution of retirement accounts
-
Court Orders and Judgments
- Temporary orders during proceedings
- Final judgment of dissolution
- Name change authorizations
- Support and maintenance determinations
-
Certificate of Dissolution
- Official document certifying the divorce
- Names of parties
- Date divorce was granted
- Case number and jurisdiction
The level of detail in these records varies based on whether the divorce was contested or uncontested, the complexity of assets involved, and whether minor children were part of the proceedings. Certain sensitive information may be redacted or sealed in publicly accessible versions of these documents.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In St. Louis County?
Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in St. Louis County may obtain this documentation through several authorized channels. The type of proof needed often determines which method is most appropriate.
For official certified copies of divorce decrees:
- St. Louis County Circuit Court
- Submit a written request to the Circuit Clerk's Office
- Provide full names of both parties as they appear on the decree
- Include the approximate date of divorce
- Supply case number if known
- Present valid photo identification
- Pay the certification fee ($2.00 per certification plus $0.50 per page)
St. Louis County Circuit Court
105 South Central Avenue
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 615-8029
St. Louis County Circuit Court
- Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
- Complete an Application for a Certified Copy of a Missouri Divorce Record
- Provide required identification
- Include $15.00 fee per certified copy
- Submit by mail or in person
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
Bureau of Vital Records
930 Wildwood Drive
Jefferson City, MO 65109
(573) 751-6387
Missouri Bureau of Vital Records
- Online Request through VitalChek
- Access the VitalChek service
- Select Missouri divorce certificate
- Provide required information
- Pay applicable fees (higher than direct government requests)
- Choose standard or expedited delivery
For verification of divorce status without a certified copy:
-
Verification Letter
- Request a verification letter from the Circuit Clerk's Office
- Provide names of parties and approximate divorce date
- Pay applicable administrative fee
- Receive official letter confirming divorce status
-
Case.net Printout
- Search the Missouri Case.net system
- Locate the divorce case
- Print the case summary showing disposition
- Note that this is not an official certification
Requestors should be prepared to demonstrate legal entitlement to these records, as access restrictions apply pursuant to Missouri law.
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In St. Louis County?
Under certain circumstances, divorce proceedings and associated records in St. Louis County may be granted confidential status. While Missouri courts generally operate under the presumption of openness pursuant to Missouri Supreme Court Operating Rule 2, specific provisions exist for maintaining confidentiality in divorce cases.
The following aspects of divorce proceedings may be subject to confidentiality protections:
-
Sealed Records by Judicial Order
- Parties may petition the court to seal all or portions of divorce records
- Judge must find compelling reasons that outweigh public interest
- Common grounds include protection from domestic violence, stalking, or harassment
- Business trade secrets or sensitive financial information
- Protection of minor children's privacy
-
Automatic Confidentiality Protections
- Social Security numbers and financial account numbers are redacted
- Records involving minors have additional privacy protections
- Medical and psychological evaluations remain confidential
- Income tax returns and financial affidavits may be protected
-
Alternative Dispute Resolution
- Mediation proceedings are confidential by statute
- Settlement negotiations may remain private
- Final agreements become public when incorporated into court orders
-
Domestic Violence Considerations
- Cases involving protective orders receive heightened confidentiality
- Address confidentiality program available for victims
- Court may allow use of pseudonyms in extreme cases
To request confidentiality for divorce proceedings, parties must:
- File a motion to seal records with the St. Louis County Circuit Court
- Demonstrate specific, serious harm that would result from public access
- Request the least restrictive means of protecting sensitive information
- Attend a hearing where the judge will determine if sealing is warranted
It is important to note that even when records are sealed, basic case information typically remains visible in public indexes, including parties' names and the case type. Complete anonymity is rarely granted except in extraordinary circumstances involving safety concerns.
How Long Does a Divorce Take In St. Louis County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in St. Louis County varies significantly based on several key factors. Under Missouri Revised Statutes § 452.305, the court must find that at least 30 days have elapsed since the filing of the petition before entering a judgment of dissolution. However, this statutory minimum rarely reflects actual timeframes.
The following factors influence the duration of divorce proceedings:
-
Type of Divorce
- Uncontested divorces with complete agreements: 60-90 days
- Contested divorces requiring litigation: 6-18 months
- Complex high-asset divorces: 1-2+ years
-
Court Docket Congestion
- The 21st Judicial Circuit (St. Louis County) currently processes approximately 3,500 dissolution cases annually
- Average time to disposition for uncontested cases: 90 days
- Average time to disposition for contested cases: 10 months
-
Mandatory Waiting Periods
- 30-day statutory waiting period after filing
- 90-day cooling-off period may be imposed in cases with minor children
- Temporary orders hearing typically scheduled 2-4 weeks after filing
-
Complexity Factors
- Child custody disputes add 3-6 months on average
- Business valuation requirements add 2-4 months
- Property division disputes add 2-6 months
- Retirement account division requiring QDROs add 1-3 months
-
Alternative Dispute Resolution Impact
- Successful mediation can reduce timeframe by 30-50%
- Collaborative divorce typically completes in 4-8 months
- Failed ADR attempts may extend overall timeline
According to the Missouri Courts Statistical Report, approximately 65% of St. Louis County divorces are resolved within 9 months of filing, with 85% resolved within 12 months. Cases involving complex financial matters or contentious custody disputes comprise the majority of proceedings extending beyond one year.
Parties seeking expedited processing should consider:
- Filing as an uncontested case with a complete settlement agreement
- Utilizing mediation or collaborative law approaches
- Promptly responding to discovery requests
- Avoiding unnecessary continuance requests
How Long Does St. Louis County Keep Divorce Records?
St. Louis County maintains divorce records according to a structured retention schedule that complies with Missouri Supreme Court Operating Rule 8 and state archival requirements. The retention periods vary based on the type of record and its historical significance.
The standard retention schedule for divorce records in St. Louis County is as follows:
-
Case Files and Judgments
- Permanent retention for all final judgments of dissolution
- Complete case files maintained for a minimum of 30 years
- After 30 years, non-essential documents may be purged while maintaining core records
- Cases with historical significance flagged for permanent archival preservation
-
Docket Entries and Indexes
- Permanent retention in electronic format
- Paper dockets maintained for minimum of 50 years
- Searchable indexes preserved indefinitely
-
Exhibits and Evidence
- Retained for 30 days after final judgment becomes non-appealable
- May be returned to submitting parties upon request
- Exhibits with historical significance may be transferred to archives
-
Financial Records
- Support payment records maintained for 10 years after youngest child reaches majority
- Court cost and fee records retained for 5 years after case closure
-
Electronic Records
- Case Management System records maintained permanently
- Electronic document images preserved according to Supreme Court standards
- Regular backup and migration to prevent technological obsolescence
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services maintains a separate registry of divorce certificates with the following retention schedule:
- Divorce certificates from 1948 to present: Permanent retention
- Statistical data from all divorces: Permanent retention
- Index of all recorded divorces: Permanent retention
Researchers seeking historical divorce records should note that older records may be:
- Stored in the Missouri State Archives
- Available only in microfilm format
- Require special handling requests
- Subject to different access procedures than recent records
For records older than 75 years, researchers may need to contact:
Missouri State Archives
600 West Main Street
Jefferson City, MO 65101
(573) 751-3280
Missouri State Archives
How To Get a Divorce In St. Louis County
Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in St. Louis County must follow specific procedures established under Missouri law. The process involves several distinct steps and requirements.
Residency Requirements
Before filing for divorce in St. Louis County, at least one spouse must:
- Have been a Missouri resident for at least 90 days prior to filing
- File in the county where either spouse resides
Filing Procedures
-
Prepare Initial Documents
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- Filing Information Sheet
- Confidential Case Filing Information Sheet
- Income and Expense Statement
- Property Statement
- Certificate of Dissolution of Marriage
-
Submit Documents to Circuit Court
- File in person at the St. Louis County Circuit Court
- Pay filing fee (currently $225.00)
- Fee waivers available for qualifying low-income individuals
St. Louis County Circuit Court
105 South Central Avenue
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 615-8029
St. Louis County Circuit Court
- Serve the Other Spouse
- Personal service through Sheriff's Department ($36.00)
- Private process server (fees vary)
- Waiver of service if spouse agrees to accept documents
- Publication if spouse cannot be located (additional fees apply)
Divorce Process Options
-
Uncontested Divorce
- Both parties agree on all issues
- File joint petition or respondent files Answer agreeing to terms
- Submit proposed judgment for court approval
- Minimal court appearances required
- Typically finalized within 60-90 days
-
Contested Divorce
- Disagreement on one or more issues
- Court establishes case management schedule
- Discovery process to exchange information
- Temporary orders hearing if needed
- Settlement conferences and mediation
- Trial if settlement not reached
- Judgment issued by court
-
Simplified Dissolution
- Available for marriages of short duration
- No children from the marriage
- Limited property and debts
- Both parties represent themselves
- Forms available through Circuit Clerk's Office
Additional Requirements
- Parenting education classes required for cases involving minor children
- Financial disclosure statements mandatory in all cases
- Waiting period of at least 30 days between filing and final judgment
- Court appearance typically required even in uncontested cases
Legal assistance resources include:
Legal Services of Eastern Missouri
4232 Forest Park Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63108
(314) 534-4200
Legal Services of Eastern Missouri
St. Louis County Law Library
105 South Central Avenue, 5th Floor
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 615-8585
St. Louis County Law Library
How To Get Divorce Papers In St. Louis County
Individuals seeking divorce documentation in St. Louis County have several options for obtaining the necessary forms and paperwork. The availability of these documents ensures that parties can initiate or respond to divorce proceedings in accordance with Missouri law.
Official Court Forms
- In-Person at the Circuit Clerk's Office
- Visit the Family Court Division
- Request dissolution of marriage packet
- Forms available for both contested and uncontested divorces
- Staff cannot provide legal advice but can explain filing procedures
- Nominal fee may apply for printed packets
St. Louis County Circuit Court
105 South Central Avenue
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 615-8029
St. Louis County Circuit Court
-
Missouri Courts Website
- Access the Missouri Courts self-help center
- Download fillable PDF forms for dissolution of marriage
- Forms include:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- Income and Expense Statement
- Property Statement
- Parenting Plan (if children involved)
- Certificate of Dissolution
- Judgment forms
-
St. Louis County Law Library
- Reference materials and form books available
- Computer access for downloading forms
- Staff assistance with locating appropriate resources
St. Louis County Law Library
105 South Central Avenue, 5th Floor
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 615-8585
St. Louis County Law Library
Legal Assistance Options
- Legal Services of Eastern Missouri
- Free legal assistance for qualifying low-income individuals
- Divorce clinics and workshops
- Form completion assistance
Legal Services of Eastern Missouri
4232 Forest Park Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63108
(314) 534-4200
Legal Services of Eastern Missouri
- St. Louis County Domestic Relations Services
- Information on court procedures
- Referrals to appropriate resources
- Mediation services
St. Louis County Domestic Relations Services
105 South Central Avenue, Room S16
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 615-4725
St. Louis County Domestic Relations Services
- Missouri Bar Lawyer Referral Service
- Referrals to attorneys specializing in family law
- Some attorneys offer reduced-fee initial consultations
The Missouri Bar
(573) 636-3635
Missouri Bar Lawyer Referral Service
Required Documentation
When preparing divorce papers, parties should gather:
- Marriage certificate
- Birth certificates for any minor children
- Tax returns for the past three years
- Pay stubs or proof of income
- Property deeds and vehicle titles
- Retirement and investment account statements
- Insurance policies
- Mortgage and loan documents
- List of personal property
Individuals should ensure all forms are completed accurately and completely before filing to avoid processing delays or rejection by the court.
Lookup Divorce Records in St. Louis County
How to obtain a copy of a divorce record from the St. Louis Circuit