Are Montgomery County Divorce Records Public in Maryland?

Yes, divorce records in Montgomery County, Maryland, are generally considered public records. However, access to these records is subject to specific regulations under the Maryland Public Information Act and related court rules. Divorce records typically include basic information such as the names of the parties, the date of the divorce, and the case number. However, certain parts of the records, such as financial settlements, child custody details, or sensitive information, may be sealed or redacted to protect privacy. Court orders or legislative acts can restrict access to certain records based on safety concerns.

Who Can Access Montgomery County Public Records?

The following groups are eligible to access divorce records in Montgomery County:

• General Public
  • Basic divorce information, like the names of parties and dates is available to anyone unless the record is sealed.
• Attorneys
  • Legal representatives involved in the vase can access complete records, including secured portions, with proper authorization.
• Government Agencies
  • Agencies conducting Investigations or verifying legal information can access full records.
• Parties to the Case
  • The individuals involved in the divorce have full access to their records.
• Researchers
  • Academic or genealogical researchers can access non-sensitive information with restrictions on identifiable information.

Access to detailed or sealed records typically requires proof of identity, a court order, or written consent from one of the involved parties.

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

No, Maryland law does not generally require individuals to state their purpose when requesting divorce records. However, if requesting restricted or sealed information, you may need to justify your need for access and provide support such as:

• Legal Proceedings requiring the record.
• Genealogical research.
• Personal interest if you are a party to the case.

Providing a clear purpose will expedite the approval process in cases where additional permission is required.

How do you Request Divorce Records in Montgomery County?

• Choose a method
  • Use the Maryland Judiciary case search or third-party sites for online requests.
  • Visit the Montgomery County Circuit Court Clerk's Office for in-person requests.
  • Send a written request to the circuit court clerk or the Maryland Vital Records division for mail requests.
• Complete the Required Form.
  • Download or obtain the form for divorce record requests.
  • Provide details such as names of the parties, case number, and date of divorce.
• Provide identification:
  • Include a government-issued ID for verification.
  • Additionally, proof of eligibility, like proof of relationship, is required for restricted records.
• Submit your Request at:
• Montgomery County Circuit Court Clerk
  50 Maryland Avenue,
  Rockville, MD 20850
  Phone: (240) 777-9400
• Pay Fees:
  • Fees range from $5 to $25 depending on the type of request and delivery method.
  • Payment methods include checks, money orders, or online credit card payments.
• Waiting for processing.
  • Online usually takes 1-3 business days.
  • 2-4 weeks for mail or in-person requests.

What Information is Included in a Montgomery County Divorce Record?

Divorce records typically contain the following details:

• Name of both parties.
• Date and place of the divorce case number and filing details.
• Divorce decree, including court rulings and settlements.

Restricted or sealed information

• Financial settlements or property division.
• Child custody agreements.
• Information involving minors or domestic violence.

Fees for Accessing Montgomery County Divorce Records

Fees for requesting divorce vary based on the method of request.

• For online requests, $5+10$ per record
• For in-person or mail requests, $5 to $25, including certified copies.
• Fee waivers are available for low-income or veterans upon submission of proof.

You can make payments using a credit card, check, or money order.

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

The period between requesting and obtaining the records differs, according to the request.

• Online requests are processed within 1-3 business days.
• Mail requests are processed between 2-5 weeks, depending on the volume, while,
• Expedited requests are available for an additional fee and can reduce the wait time to 24-48 hours.

Can I Request Divorce Records Online in Montgomery County?

Yes, you can request divorce records online through official platforms, such as the Maryland Judiciary Case Search. Third-party sites like Marylandcourtrecords.us also provide access but may not guarantee complete accuracy. Official government sources are most reliable and up-to-date and are recommended.

Are There Any Exceptions to Accessing Montgomery County Divorce Records?

Yes, certain divorce records may be sealed or restricted. Some examples of information that may be sealed by the court include:

• Cases involving minors or sensitive family matters.
• Records with financial or custodial information.
• Records sealed by court order for privacy or Safety reasons.

To access restricted records, you need to:

• Provide proof of identity and eligibility.
• Obtain a court order authorizing access.

Legal Proceedings or compelling public interest may allow for the release of otherwise confidential information.