Franklin County Ohio Divorce Records are official legal documents that show the end of a marriage. These records include the original divorce petition, the final judgment signed by a judge, and any later changes like updates to alimony or child support. The archive holds cases from 1975 to today and can be searched by case number, filing date, or the full names of both people in the divorce. You can view these files for free on public computers at the clerk’s office at 1970 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43223. If you need a copy sent to you, there’s a $10 fee for a written request. The clerk will send a secure PDF link by email within ten business days. Certified copies with an official seal cost more and are needed for things like changing your name with the Ohio Bureau of Vital Statistics.
How to Get Franklin County Ohio Divorce Records
There are three main ways to get divorce records in Franklin County: in person, by mail, or online. Each method has different fees, processing times, and requirements. Knowing which option fits your needs saves time and money.
Online Request Process
Since August 2022, the Franklin County Clerk of Courts offers an online portal for divorce record requests. You enter the petitioner’s name, respondent’s name, filing date, and case number. Pay $15 with a credit card, and you’ll get a secure link to download the PDF within 48 hours. For a certified “true copy” with the official seal and notarized statement, pay $30. This version is accepted by government agencies and courts.
In-Person Requests
Visit one of three locations: the main office at 373 South High Street, the West Broad Street office at 1970 West Broad Street, or the Grandview Heights branch at 1016 Grandview Avenue. All are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bring a valid photo ID and fill out a request form. Staff will verify your identity and pull the record from the electronic system. Copies cost $10 for a divorce decree and $8 for a marriage certificate. You’ll get a receipt right away.
Mail-In Requests
Send a written request with the case number, both parties’ full names, and a $10 check or money order to the Franklin County Clerk of Courts, 373 South High Street, Columbus, OH 43215. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Processing takes up to ten business days after the clerk receives your letter. For certified copies, add $20 and specify you need the official seal.
Fees and Payment Options
Fees vary based on how you request the record and whether you need certification. Standard copies cost $10. Certified copies with the court seal cost $30 online or $20 by mail. Marriage certificates are $8. All fees must be paid upfront. Online payments use credit cards. In person, you can pay with cash, check, or card. Mail requests require a check or money order made out to the Franklin County Clerk of Courts.
| Service | Cost | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Copy (PDF) | $10 | 10 business days (mail) |
| Online Request (PDF) | $15 | 48 hours |
| Certified Copy (True Copy) | $30 | 48 hours (online) |
| Marriage Certificate | $8 | Same day (in person) |
What’s Included in a Franklin County Divorce Record
A complete divorce record contains several key parts. The original petition shows who filed for divorce and why. The final judgment lists the judge’s decisions on property, debts, custody, and support. Later modifications may include changes to alimony, visitation, or child support amounts. Each document is stamped with a case number and filing date. Certified copies include the court seal, a unique certificate number, and the date it was issued. These details prove the record is real and can be used for legal purposes.
Who Can Access Franklin County Ohio Divorce Records
Anyone can request a divorce record in Franklin County. You don’t need to be a party to the case. However, you must provide accurate information like full names and case numbers. Staff may ask for ID to prevent fraud. Records involving minors or sealed cases may have limited access. Most divorce files are public under Ohio law, but sensitive details like Social Security numbers are redacted.
Using Divorce Records for Legal Purposes
Certified divorce decrees are often required for official tasks. Examples include changing your name with the Ohio Bureau of Vital Statistics, updating your marital status with the DMV, or applying for benefits. Employers, banks, and immigration offices may also ask for a certified copy. Always check with the requesting agency to confirm they accept digital PDFs or if they need a paper copy with the original seal.
Franklin County Clerk of Courts Contact Information
The Domestic Relations Division handles divorce record requests. It’s on the fourth floor of 373 South High Street, Columbus, OH 43215. Phone: 614-525-4410. Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome, but calling ahead helps avoid long waits. For general questions, email is not available—only phone and in-person support.
Case Information Online (CIO) Portal
The CIO portal lets you search civil and criminal cases in Franklin County. It’s free and available 24/7. Enter a case number or party name to see docket entries, hearing dates, and judge assignments. While it shows basic case info, it doesn’t provide full divorce documents. Use it to confirm a case exists before requesting records. Sensitive data, like juvenile records, is hidden to protect privacy.
Franklin County Recorder’s Role
The Recorder’s Office manages property deeds, mortgages, and liens—not divorce records. However, if your divorce involved real estate transfers, those documents are filed here. Search the online system powered by Kofile Technologies. It covers records from 1990 onward. Fees range from $0.75 to $5 per page. The office is at 373 South High Street, open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Probate Court and Certified Records
The Probate Court handles wills, estates, and some name changes—but not divorce decrees. If you need a certified probate record, mail your request to the Certified Records Desk, 22nd floor, 373 South High Street, Columbus, OH 43215-6311. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Fees are $12 per page. Processing takes seven to ten business days.
Common Mistakes When Requesting Records
Many people delay their requests by making simple errors. Using nicknames instead of full legal names causes rejections. Missing case numbers force staff to do extra searches. Forgetting to include payment holds up processing. Always double-check spelling, dates, and fees before submitting. If unsure, call 614-525-4410 during business hours.
How Long Do Divorce Records Stay Public
Franklin County keeps divorce records indefinitely. There’s no expiration date. Even old cases from the 1970s are still available. The archive is digital and backed up regularly. This ensures long-term access for researchers, lawyers, and individuals.
Name Changes After Divorce
Ohio allows you to revert to your maiden name during divorce. The judge’s final decree must state this change. Once granted, use the certified divorce decree to update your driver’s license, Social Security card, and bank accounts. The Ohio Bureau of Vital Statistics requires the certified copy to process the update.
Out-of-State Requests
If you live outside Ohio, you can still get records. Use the online portal for fastest service. For mail requests, include a prepaid return envelope. The clerk sends documents via USPS Priority Mail, which usually arrives in three business days. International requests may take longer and require extra fees.
Free Access Options
You can view divorce records for free at the West Broad Street office. Public terminals let you search by name or case number. Printouts aren’t free—each page costs $0.10. But browsing and reading documents doesn’t require payment. This is ideal for quick checks or research.
Record Accuracy and Updates
The Franklin County Clerk’s office updates records within 24 hours of court filings. All documents are scanned and stored electronically. If you spot an error—like a misspelled name—contact the Domestic Relations Division immediately. They can correct mistakes and reissue certified copies if needed.
Privacy and Redaction Rules
Ohio law protects personal information in court records. Social Security numbers, bank account details, and children’s names are blacked out before release. Only parties to the case or their lawyers can request unredacted versions with a court order. This keeps sensitive data safe from identity theft.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask how long it takes to get a record, whether online copies are valid, and if they need a lawyer to request one. Answers: Online PDFs are legally accepted unless specified otherwise. No lawyer is needed—anyone can request records. Processing times range from 48 hours (online) to ten days (mail).
Official Resources
For the most accurate information, use these official sources: Franklin County Clerk of Courts Domestic Relations: https://clerk.franklincountyohio.gov/legal/aboutDomestic Case Information Online (CIO): https://fcdcfcjs.co.franklin.oh.us/CaseInformationOnline/ Franklin County Recorder: https://recorder.franklincountyohio.gov/ Ohio Bureau of Vital Statistics: https://odh.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/odh/know-our-programs/vital-statistics/home
Contact Details
Franklin County Clerk of Courts 373 South High Street Columbus, OH 43215 Phone: 614-525-3621 Domestic Relations Division: 614-525-4410 West Broad Street Office: 1970 West Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43223 Grandview Heights Branch: 1016 Grandview Avenue, Columbus, OH 43212 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
FAQ Section
Many people have questions about getting divorce records in Franklin County. Below are the most common ones with clear, direct answers based on current procedures and Ohio law.
Can I get a divorce record if I don’t know the case number?
Yes. You can search using the full legal names of both parties and the approximate filing date. The clerk’s system will show matching cases. If there are multiple matches, staff may ask for more details like birthdates or addresses. Having the case number speeds things up, but it’s not required.
Are online PDF copies legally valid?
Most agencies accept secure PDFs with a verification link. However, some—like the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services—require a paper copy with the original seal. Always confirm with the requesting organization before ordering. When in doubt, choose the certified “true copy” option for $30.
How do I correct a mistake on my divorce decree?
Contact the Domestic Relations Division at 614-525-4410. Provide your case number and describe the error. Minor fixes like spelling may be handled quickly. Major changes—such as incorrect property division—may require a court hearing. The clerk cannot alter judicial orders without a judge’s approval.
Can someone else request my divorce record for me?
Yes. Third parties can request records, but they must provide accurate case details and pay the fee. The clerk does not verify relationships. However, if the record is sealed or involves minors, access may be restricted. Always include as much info as possible to avoid delays.
What if my divorce was finalized before 1975?
Franklin County’s digital archive starts in 1975. Older records may exist in paper form at the Ohio History Connection or local archives. Contact the Franklin County Clerk first—they can advise where to look. Some pre-1975 files have been transferred to state repositories.
Do I need a divorce record to remarry in Ohio?
Yes. The county where you apply for a new marriage license will ask for proof that your previous marriage ended. A certified divorce decree or death certificate is required. Without it, the license application will be denied.
How long does it take to get a certified copy by mail?
Mail requests take up to ten business days after the clerk receives your letter. Add extra time for postal delivery. For faster service, use the online portal ($15, 48-hour turnaround) or visit in person ($10, same-day pickup).