The short answer
A divorce decree is a court order, so you generally ask the Circuit Clerk in the county where your divorce was granted. Order certified copies from the clerk. Copies cost a small fee, and you’ll want a certified copy for most official uses.
You need your decree for a name change, a mortgage, insurance, a new marriage license or a retirement account. If you can’t find yours, here’s where to start.
Decree or divorce certificate?
There are two things people mean by “divorce papers” after the fact:
- The Decree of Divorce. The final order the judge signed. It spells out custody, support and who got what. The court that granted your divorce keeps the file.
- A certified copy. Order certified copies from the clerk.
If you need the terms of your divorce, you want the decree. If an agency only needs proof that you’re divorced, ask them what they accept.
Getting a copy from the Circuit Clerk
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Find the county
Use the county where the divorce was filed and granted, which may not be where you live now.
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Contact that county’s Circuit Clerk
Ask how they take requests: in person, by mail or online. It varies by county.
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Give them what they need to find the case
Names, the approximate year, and a case number if you have one. See the list below.
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Ask for acertified copy if you need one
Then pay the copy fee. Ask the clerk what forms of payment they take.
We don’t listindividual clerks or phone numbers because they change. Look up your county’s Circuit Clerk on the county’s official website.
What to have ready
- Both spouses’ full names, including any prior names
- The county and the approximate date or year of the divorce
- The case number, if you have it from old paperwork
- A photo ID. The clerk can require one
Certified versus plain copies
A certified copy carries the clerk’s stamp or seal. Banks, government agencies and courts usually want certified copies. A plain copy is fine for your own records. Certified copies cost a bit more, typically a few dollars each, so get enough for everyone who will ask for one.
Common questions
How can I obtain a divorce decree in Arkansas?
Ask the Circuit Clerk in the county where the divorce was granted.
How can I order a divorce decree?
Contact that county’s Circuit Clerk and ask whether they accept requests in person, by mail or online.
How much does a copy cost?
A small per-copy fee, usually higher for certified copies. The clerk can give you the current amount.
I don’t remember which county I divorced in. What do I do?
Check any old paperwork, your marriage license records, or ask your former spouse. If you still can’t tell, contact the Circuit Clerk offices in the counties where you lived at the time.
Can I get my divorce decree for free?
Fees are set by the clerk. Ask whether any fee can be waived for your situation.
Startinga divorce instead?
If you came here looking for a copy of a decree, you’re done. If you’re beginning a divorce of your own, see the full filing guide and the forms hub.
Sources
- Your county Circuit Clerk’s official website