Cook County Divorce Records

In Cook County, Illinois, divorce records are maintained and made available to the public under specific circumstances. If you’re looking to access these records, this guide will walk you through the process, eligibility requirements, and the steps you need to follow.

Understanding Cook County Divorce Records

Divorce records are typically categorized into three types:

1. Divorce Certificates – These are summaries that include the basic information about the divorce, such as the names of the parties involved and the date of the divorce.

2. Divorce Decrees – A more detailed document that includes the court’s final judgment on matters like property division, alimony, child support, and custody arrangements.

3. Divorce Case Files – These include all documentation related to the divorce case, from the initial filings to the final judgment, and can offer the most in-depth view of the case.

Are Divorce Records Public in Cook County?

Cook County divorce records are generally public, but not all details are easily accessible. While basic information such as names and dates may be available to the public, sensitive information, especially related to minors or financial settlements, may be sealed or restricted.

Who Can Access Cook County Divorce Records?

The divorced parties themselves, their legal representatives, or individuals with court permission can access detailed records.

Third parties may be able to access certain public details, but they will likely be required to provide a valid reason for seeking access, especially for detailed case files.

How to Obtain Divorce Records in Cook County

Here’s how you can access divorce records in Cook County:

1. In-Person Request

You can obtain divorce records by visiting the Clerk of the Circuit Court in Cook County. The Clerk’s office holds all official divorce records for the county.

Location: The main office is located at the Richard J. Daley Center, 50 W Washington St, Room 802, Chicago, IL 60602.

Hours: Monday to Friday, from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

What You’ll Need:

A valid ID (driver’s license or state ID).

Case number or the names of both parties involved in the divorce.

Applicable fees (these can vary based on the type of record requested).

2. Online Request

Cook County also provides an online portal to search for and request divorce records.

Step 1: Visit the Clerk of the Circuit Court website.

Step 2: Navigate to the “Case Lookup” section and search for the divorce case using the names of the parties or the case number.

Step 3: Once the record is found, you can submit an online request to obtain a copy. Keep in mind that fees apply for certified copies.

3. Mail Request

If you prefer not to visit in person or use the online system, you can request records by mail.

Write a formal request that includes:

The full names of both parties involved in the divorce.

The case number (if known).

The date or year of the divorce (if known).

Your contact details.

Include a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check or money order for the required fee.

Mail the request to: Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County Richard J. Daley Center, Room 802 50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602

4. Third-Party Services

For those who want to avoid handling the process directly, third-party services can assist in obtaining Cook County divorce records. These services may charge a higher fee but can save you time and effort.

Costs Associated with Obtaining Divorce Records

The fees for obtaining divorce records vary based on the type of record and whether you need certified copies. Typical costs include:

Basic Record Search: $9–$12

Certified Copies: $15–$25 per copy It’s recommended to check the Cook County Clerk’s website for the most current fee schedule.

When Are Divorce Records Sealed?

In some cases, divorce records may be sealed by a judge, which means they are not accessible to the public. Common reasons for sealing records include:

Protection of minors involved in the case.

Sensitive financial or personal information.

Cases involving abuse or domestic violence.

If the records are sealed, only the parties involved and their legal representatives can access them, unless a court order is obtained.

Whether you’re seeking your own Cook County divorce records or trying to access those of a family member or friend, knowing the right process can save time and frustration. Always ensure you have the necessary information, including full names, dates, and case numbers, before making a request. Additionally, be prepared to pay any applicable fees, especially if you need certified copies.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cook County Divorce Records

1. Can I access Cook County divorce records online?

Yes, you can access basic divorce information through the Cook County Clerk of the Circuit Court’s online portal. However, for more detailed records or certified copies, you may need to visit in person, request by mail, or submit an online request.

2. What information do I need to request a divorce record?

You’ll need the full names of both parties involved in the divorce, the case number (if available), and the date or year of the divorce. A valid ID may also be required if requesting the records in person.

3. Are Cook County divorce records public?

Divorce records are generally public, but access to certain details, such as financial settlements or issues involving minors, may be restricted or sealed. Basic information like names and divorce dates are usually available to the public.

4. How much does it cost to obtain a divorce record?

The cost varies depending on the type of record requested. A basic record search can cost around $9–$12, while certified copies range from $15–$25. Check the Cook County Clerk’s website for the most up-to-date fee schedule.

5. Can I get a divorce record if it’s sealed?

If the divorce record is sealed, you cannot access it unless you are one of the parties involved, a legal representative, or you obtain a court order granting access. Sealed records usually involve sensitive information, such as cases with minors or domestic abuse.

6. How long does it take to get a divorce record?

The timeline for receiving a divorce record depends on how you request it. In-person requests may be processed the same day, while mail or online requests may take several days to weeks, depending on the volume of requests.

7. Can I request someone else’s divorce record?

Yes, you can request someone else’s divorce record as long as it is not sealed. However, certain sensitive details may be restricted. You may also need to provide a valid reason for requesting access to detailed case files.

8. What if I don’t know the case number for the divorce?

If you don’t have the case number, you can search for the record using the names of the parties involved in the divorce. You can do this online via the Cook County Clerk’s case lookup system or request a search in person.

9. Where can I request a divorce record in person?

You can request divorce records in person at the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office in the Richard J. Daley Center, located at 50 W Washington St, Room 802, Chicago, IL 60602. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

10. Can I get a copy of the divorce decree?

Yes, a copy of the divorce decree can be requested. This document contains detailed information about the court’s final judgment on issues like property division, child support, and custody. It is typically available to the parties involved, their attorneys, or through a court order if sealed.

11. How do I know if a record is sealed?

You’ll be informed by the Clerk of the Court or during the request process if the record is sealed. You can also inquire with the court if you suspect a record may be sealed due to privacy concerns or sensitive information.

12. Can I request Cook County divorce records by mail?

Yes, you can request records by mail. Include the names of both parties, the case number (if known), the year of the divorce, a valid ID, the applicable fee, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Mail your request to the Clerk of the Circuit Court at the Richard J. Daley Center.