Maryland Divorce Records

Maryland Public Records /Maryland Divorce Records

Are Divorce Records Public in Maryland?

Yes, divorce records are public in Maryland. The state's Public Information Act ensures that citizens have access to various government records, including divorce records. This act promotes transparency and accountability in government operations, allowing individuals to access important information about divorce proceedings.

The Maryland Judiciary is responsible for maintaining divorce records in the state. These records are considered public unless they are sealed by a court order. Sealed divorce records are typically those that involve sensitive information, such as cases involving minors or cases that require special protection due to the nature of the proceedings.

Access to divorce records allows individuals to gather important information about a person's marital history. This can be particularly useful in various situations, such as background checks, genealogical research, or legal proceedings. By making divorce records public, Maryland ensures that its citizens have the opportunity to access this information when needed.

What Is Included in Divorce Record in Maryland?

Divorce records in Maryland typically include essential details about the dissolution of a marriage. These details may vary depending on the specific case, but commonly include the following information:

Names of the parties involved: The divorce record will include the names of both spouses who were part of the divorce proceedings.
Date of the divorce: The record will indicate the date on which the divorce was finalized by the court.
Court case number: Each divorce case is assigned a unique court case number, which helps in identifying and retrieving the specific record.
Division of assets and liabilities: The divorce record may include information about the division of assets, such as property, bank accounts, and debts, between the spouses.
Child custody and support: If the divorce involved children, the record may contain details about child custody arrangements and child support obligations.
Alimony or spousal support: In cases where one spouse is entitled to receive alimony or spousal support, the divorce record may include information about the terms and duration of such support.

How to Get Divorce Records in Maryland in 2024

To obtain divorce records in Maryland, you can follow these steps:

Visit the Maryland Judiciary website: The Maryland Judiciary provides an online portal where you can search for divorce records. Simply navigate to the website and follow the instructions to access the desired records. Please note that access to certain details may be restricted, depending on the case and its status.
Contact the Circuit Court: If the divorce records are not available online or if you require additional assistance, you can contact the Circuit Court in the county where the divorce was filed. The court clerk can provide guidance on how to obtain the records and any associated fees.
Hire a third-party service: There are also third-party services available that can help you retrieve divorce records in Maryland. These services often charge a fee for their assistance, but they can save you time and effort in navigating the process.

It is important to note that while divorce records are generally public in Maryland, there may be certain restrictions or limitations on accessing specific information. For example, sensitive information involving minors or cases under seal may not be readily available. It is always advisable to check with the relevant authorities or consult legal professionals for guidance on accessing divorce records in Maryland.

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