In 2019, more than 26,000 couples filed for divorce in New Jersey. While divorce remains an ordinary circumstance, many aren’t aware whether their divorce records are public in the state of New Jersey.
So are divorce records public in NJ? What is explicitly available for public viewing? Is anything redacted?
That’s what we’re here to look at today. Read on to determine whether divorce records are public in New Jersey and what that might mean for you.
Are Divorce Records Public in NJ?
If you’re asking, “are divorce records public in NJ,” the short answer is: yes. New Jersey’s Open Public Records Act (OPRA) defines that public members can view public documents.
The Act defines how you can view such public documents. With that said, the deeply personal nature of divorce proceedings and the confidential information associated with marriage and divorce make them harder to obtain.
How Do You Gain Access to Divorce Records?
Since divorce cases often involve disclosing financial records, personal matters related to the marriage, and even children involved in the relationship, divorce records can be hard to find. Therefore, searching for them consists in contacting the court.
One place to look for divorce records is the Superior Court of New Jersey Records. You can also try the Court Clerk from where the divorce case was heard.
What Do Divorce Records Contain?
Divorce records include specific documents such as divorce certificates and decrees. Let’s go over what these documents are.
Divorce Certificates
Certificates essentially record that a divorce took place, along with the relevant names, location, and time. It proves that a divorce occurred and is readily available for individuals involved in the divorce.
Divorce Decrees
Decrees contain more specific information than certificates, as they record names, dates, and final judgments or agreements in any given case. In addition, things like alimony payments, child support, and other details are included here.
Whenever someone wants to change the details of their child support payments or something related, they often have to access their divorce decrees.
How Easy Is It to Find Divorce Records in New Jersey?
The availability of divorce records in New Jersey often varies. However, third-party public record sites and government search portals can provide divorce information.
That said, divorce records might not be available from those sources. You can also ask county clerks for divorce information. Older divorce records require some to go to the Superior Court of New Jersey Records Center.
In other words, finding divorce records takes more effort than other public documents. As a result, those previously involved in a divorce might have an easier time finding that information than others.
Can Information Be Redacted?
If a divorce record contains personal information, such as social security or children’s identity, those details can be redacted before it becomes public. Sealing divorce records is possible, though much more complex in Jersey.
The court records custodian is responsible for redacting that information. If there is no such information, the two parties involved in the divorce must agree to sealing or redacting parts of the record.
Public Divorce Records in NJ
If you’re asking, “are divorce records public in NJ,” hopefully, you’ve found your answer. Use this guide to help you understand the parameters of divorce records.
Are you looking to learn more about divorce and would like top-rated attorneys in New Jersey who provide excellent service and are committed to their clients? Contact Dalena & Bosch today, and we’ll get started discussing divorce with you right away.
Please feel free to browse our blog articles to see all of our family law and divorce informational articles.