Jefferson County Divorce Records
What Are Jefferson County Divorce Records?
Divorce records in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana are official legal documents that provide documentation of the dissolution of marriage between two individuals. These records are maintained pursuant to Louisiana Civil Code Article 103, which governs divorce proceedings in the state. Divorce records consist of various court documents filed during divorce proceedings and are maintained by the Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court.
Divorce records typically include:
- Petition for divorce
- Summons and service of process documentation
- Financial disclosures
- Property settlement agreements
- Child custody and support arrangements
- Final judgment of divorce (Decree of Dissolution)
These records serve multiple important purposes for individuals and government agencies:
- Legal proof of marital status change
- Documentation required for remarriage
- Evidence for name change processes
- Verification for Social Security benefits
- Supporting documentation for loan applications
- Required evidence for immigration matters
The 24th Judicial District Court in Jefferson Parish has jurisdiction over divorce proceedings, and the records generated through these legal processes are maintained according to Louisiana Revised Statute § 44:36, which establishes retention requirements for public records.
Are Jefferson County Divorce Records Public?
Divorce records in Jefferson Parish have a complex public access status that varies depending on the specific document type and information contained therein. Generally, court divorce case files are considered public records under the Louisiana Public Records Law § 44:1, which establishes the public's right to access government records. However, this access is subject to important limitations and exceptions.
The public accessibility of divorce records is structured as follows:
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Generally Public: Basic case information including parties' names, case numbers, filing dates, and final judgment dates are typically available to the public.
-
Partially Restricted: Certain sensitive information within divorce files may be redacted or restricted, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Financial account information
- Minor children's identifying information
- Allegations of domestic violence
- Medical or mental health information
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Restricted Access Documents: Certified divorce certificates with restricted access are available only to:
- Parties to the divorce
- Their legal representatives
- Individuals with a demonstrable legitimate interest
- Government agencies for official purposes
The Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court maintains these records and implements access protocols in accordance with state law. Individuals seeking divorce records must follow established procedures and may be required to provide identification or legal authorization depending on the specific records requested and their relationship to the case.
Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court
P.O. Box 10
Gretna, LA 70054-0010
(504) 364-2900
Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court
How To Find a Divorce Record In Jefferson County in 2026
Members of the public seeking divorce records in Jefferson Parish may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court serves as the official custodian of divorce records for the parish. Individuals may obtain these records through the following procedures:
In-Person Requests:
- Visit the Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court office during regular business hours
- Complete a records request form, providing case information (names, approximate date)
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay applicable search and copy fees
- Receive copies of publicly available divorce records
Mail Requests:
- Download and complete the public records request form from the Jefferson Parish Public Records Request portal
- Include a copy of valid government-issued photo identification
- Provide a self-addressed stamped envelope
- Include payment for applicable fees (check or money order)
- Mail the complete package to the Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court
Online Requests:
- Navigate to the Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court website
- Access the public records request system
- Create an account or log in to the system
- Complete the electronic request form with all required information
- Submit payment for applicable fees
- Track request status through the online portal
For certified copies of divorce decrees, requestors must provide additional verification of their relationship to the case or demonstrate legitimate legal interest in accordance with Louisiana law.
Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court
P.O. Box 10
Gretna, LA 70054-0010
(504) 364-2900
Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court
How To Look Up Divorce Records in Jefferson County Online?
Jefferson Parish provides digital access to certain divorce record information through its online systems. The parish has implemented electronic resources to facilitate public access while maintaining appropriate privacy protections. Individuals seeking to access divorce records online may utilize the following methods:
Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court Online Records System:
- Visit the Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court website
- Navigate to the public records search portal
- Register for an account (if required) or proceed as a guest user
- Select "Civil Records" or "Family Court Records" from the search options
- Enter search criteria such as:
- Party names (last name, first name)
- Case number (if known)
- Filing date range
- Review search results showing basic case information
- Select specific cases to view publicly available documents
- Pay applicable fees for document access or copies
Louisiana Judicial System Case Management System:
- Access the Louisiana court records portal
- Select Jefferson Parish from the jurisdiction options
- Enter search parameters related to the divorce case
- Review available case information
- Note that complete documents may require in-person requests
Users should be aware that online access to divorce records may be limited to basic case information and docket entries. Sensitive information and certain documents may be accessible only through in-person requests at the Clerk's office. Additionally, online systems typically require payment of search and document retrieval fees, which can be paid electronically through secure payment portals.
The Jefferson Parish Public Records Request system allows users to submit formal requests for records that may not be directly accessible through the online search functions.
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Jefferson County?
Jefferson Parish offers limited options for accessing divorce records without payment of fees. While most comprehensive searches and document copies involve standard fees, certain basic information may be obtained at no cost through the following methods:
Public Access Terminals:
- Visit the Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court office during regular business hours
- Request access to public computer terminals
- Conduct basic case searches using party names or case numbers
- View basic case information and docket entries
- Note that printing or obtaining official copies will incur standard fees
Public Law Library Resources:
- Visit the Jefferson Parish Law Library located at the courthouse
- Use available legal research terminals
- Access basic case information through public access systems
- Consult with law librarians for assistance with navigating resources
- Review publicly available court calendars and case indices
Online Docket Information:
- Access the Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court website
- Navigate to the public case information portal
- Conduct basic searches using party names
- View limited case information at no charge
- Note that document access typically requires payment
While basic case verification may be available without fees, comprehensive divorce records typically require payment of statutory fees for search services and document reproduction. These fees are established pursuant to Louisiana Revised Statute § 13:841, which authorizes clerks of court to collect fees for services rendered.
Individuals experiencing financial hardship may petition the court for fee waivers under certain circumstances by filing an in forma pauperis application with the court.
Jefferson Parish Law Library
200 Derbigny Street, Suite 5200
Gretna, LA 70053
(504) 364-2970
Jefferson Parish Law Library
What's Included in a Divorce Records In Jefferson County
Divorce records in Jefferson Parish contain comprehensive documentation of the legal dissolution process. These records are maintained by the Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court and typically include multiple document types that chronicle the divorce proceedings from initiation to final judgment.
A complete divorce file generally contains:
Initial Filings:
- Petition for Divorce (original complaint)
- Summons and proof of service
- Temporary restraining orders (if applicable)
- Initial court orders regarding temporary support or custody
Financial Documentation:
- Sworn financial statements from both parties
- Property and asset disclosure forms
- Debt schedules and liability documentation
- Income verification (tax returns, pay stubs)
- Pension and retirement account information
Child-Related Documents (if applicable):
- Parenting plans
- Child support worksheets and calculations
- Custody evaluation reports
- Guardian ad litem reports
Procedural Documents:
- Court hearing notices
- Motions and responses
- Deposition transcripts
- Mediation agreements or outcomes
- Court minute entries
Final Documents:
- Settlement agreement (if reached by parties)
- Final judgment of divorce (Decree of Dissolution)
- Property division orders
- Child support and custody orders
- Spousal support determinations
The specific content of divorce records varies based on the complexity of the case, whether children were involved, the extent of property division required, and whether the divorce was contested or uncontested. All documents filed become part of the official court record maintained by the 24th Judicial District Court in Jefferson Parish.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In Jefferson County?
Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Jefferson Parish may obtain certified copies of divorce decrees through established procedures. These certified documents serve as legal verification of marital dissolution and are commonly required for remarriage, name changes, and various administrative purposes.
In-Person Requests for Certified Copies:
- Visit the Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court office
- Complete the certified copy request form
- Provide the following information:
- Full names of both parties to the divorce
- Approximate date of divorce finalization
- Case number (if known)
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay the certification fee (currently $5-15 per certified copy)
- Receive the certified divorce decree
Mail Requests for Certified Copies:
- Prepare a written request including:
- Full names of both parties to the divorce
- Approximate date of divorce finalization
- Case number (if known)
- Number of certified copies requested
- Return address
- Include a copy of valid government-issued photo identification
- Enclose a check or money order for applicable fees
- Mail the request package to the Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court
Online/Electronic Requests:
- Access the Jefferson Parish public records request portal
- Complete the electronic request form for certified copies
- Upload required identification documentation
- Submit payment through the secure payment system
- Select delivery method (mail or in-person pickup)
For divorces finalized in Jefferson Parish after a specific date, the Louisiana Department of Health Vital Records Registry may also maintain divorce certificates that can be requested through their office.
Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court
P.O. Box 10
Gretna, LA 70054-0010
(504) 364-2900
Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Jefferson County?
While divorce proceedings in Jefferson Parish are generally matters of public record, Louisiana law provides mechanisms for maintaining confidentiality of certain information under specific circumstances. The court balances the public's right to access judicial records with legitimate privacy concerns of the parties involved.
Sealing of Records: Under Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure Article 1426, parties may petition the court to seal specific documents or entire case files when:
- Disclosure would cause undue embarrassment or harm
- Records contain sensitive financial information
- Documents include private medical or mental health information
- Materials contain identifying information about minor children
- Records include allegations of domestic abuse
Confidential Information Protections: Certain information is automatically protected from public disclosure:
- Social Security numbers
- Financial account numbers
- Minor children's names (often redacted to initials)
- Victims' identifying information in cases involving domestic violence
Procedure for Requesting Confidentiality:
- File a motion to seal records with the 24th Judicial District Court
- Demonstrate compelling reasons that outweigh public access interests
- Request specific scope of confidentiality (particular documents or entire file)
- Attend hearing on the motion if scheduled by the court
- Comply with court's order regarding scope of confidentiality
The court maintains discretion in determining whether to grant confidentiality requests. Even when records are sealed, they remain accessible to the parties, their attorneys, and authorized court personnel. Government agencies may also access sealed records for legitimate purposes through proper legal channels.
Individuals concerned about privacy should consult with legal counsel early in the divorce process to implement appropriate confidentiality measures.
How Long Does a Divorce Take In Jefferson County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in Jefferson Parish varies significantly based on multiple factors related to case complexity and the level of agreement between parties. The 24th Judicial District Court processes divorce cases according to Louisiana law, which establishes different waiting periods based on the grounds for divorce.
Statutory Timeframes:
- Uncontested divorces based on living separate and apart:
- 180 days if no minor children (pursuant to Louisiana Civil Code Article 103.1)
- 365 days if minor children are involved
- Contested divorces: Typically 6-18 months depending on complexity
- Fault-based divorces: Generally longer due to evidentiary requirements
Factors Affecting Timeline:
- Court docket congestion and scheduling availability
- Complexity of property division and asset valuation
- Child custody and support determinations
- Level of cooperation between parties
- Participation in mediation or collaborative divorce processes
- Attorney scheduling conflicts
- Need for expert witnesses or evaluations
Approximate Timeframes by Divorce Type:
- Simple uncontested divorce (no children, minimal assets): 3-6 months
- Uncontested divorce with children: 12-15 months
- Contested divorce with significant assets: 12-24 months
- High-conflict contested divorce with custody disputes: 18-36 months
According to court statistics, approximately 60% of divorces in Jefferson Parish are resolved within 12 months of filing. Complex cases involving substantial assets or contentious custody disputes may extend significantly beyond this timeframe.
The court encourages alternative dispute resolution methods, including mediation, which can substantially reduce the time required to finalize divorce proceedings when successful.
How Long Does Jefferson County Keep Divorce Records?
Jefferson Parish maintains divorce records according to established retention schedules governed by Louisiana Revised Statute § 44:36, which establishes requirements for preservation of public records. The retention periods vary based on the type of document and its legal significance.
Permanent Retention:
- Final Judgments of Divorce (Decrees of Dissolution)
- Property settlement judgments
- Child custody and support orders
- Name change orders within divorce judgments
- Case indices and docket books
Extended Retention (25+ years):
- Financial affidavits and property disclosures
- Transcripts of proceedings
- Depositions and written testimony
- Guardian ad litem reports
- Custody evaluations
Standard Retention (10-15 years):
- Procedural motions and responses
- Scheduling orders and continuances
- Routine correspondence
- Temporary orders superseded by final judgment
The Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court implements these retention schedules while maintaining the integrity and accessibility of essential divorce records. Records scheduled for destruction after their retention period may be transferred to microfilm or electronic format for permanent preservation before the physical documents are destroyed.
For historical research purposes, divorce records dating back to the establishment of Jefferson Parish in 1825 may be available through the Louisiana State Archives, which maintains historical court records from throughout the state.
Individuals seeking older divorce records should contact both the Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court and the Louisiana State Archives to determine the appropriate repository for the specific timeframe in question.
How To Get a Divorce In Jefferson County
Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Jefferson Parish must follow procedures established by Louisiana law and the 24th Judicial District Court. The divorce process involves multiple steps that vary depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested.
Residency Requirements: Before filing, at least one spouse must:
- Be a Louisiana resident
- Have maintained domicile in the state for at least 12 months preceding the filing
Uncontested Divorce Process:
- Prepare petition for divorce citing appropriate grounds
- File petition with Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court and pay filing fee
- Serve petition on spouse through proper legal channels
- Wait required separation period (180 days without children, 365 days with children)
- File affidavit confirming continued separation
- Submit proposed judgment of divorce
- Attend brief court hearing if required by the judge
- Receive signed judgment of divorce
Contested Divorce Process:
- File petition for divorce with Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court
- Serve petition on spouse through sheriff or private process server
- Respond to or file any temporary motions regarding support, custody, or property
- Engage in discovery process (document exchange, depositions)
- Attend court-ordered mediation if applicable
- Participate in pre-trial conferences and hearings
- Prepare for and attend trial if settlement not reached
- Receive judgment of divorce following trial or negotiated settlement
Filing Locations: Divorce petitions must be filed with the Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court at:
Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court
Thomas F. Donelon Building
200 Derbigny Street, Suite 5600
Gretna, LA 70053
(504) 364-2900
Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court
Individuals may access forms and additional information through the Louisiana Supreme Court Self-Help Resources or consult with the Jefferson Parish Law Library for assistance with self-representation.
How To Get Divorce Papers In Jefferson County
Individuals initiating divorce proceedings in Jefferson Parish require specific legal documents to properly file their case. These documents, commonly referred to as "divorce papers," can be obtained through several channels depending on the individual's circumstances and needs.
Sources for Divorce Forms:
Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court:
- Visit the Civil Department at the courthouse
- Request divorce petition packet appropriate to your situation
- Pay nominal fee for forms package
- Receive instructions for completion and filing
Jefferson Parish Law Library:
- Access self-help resources section
- Request divorce form packets from library staff
- Utilize reference materials for guidance on completion
- Use public computers for form completion if needed
Louisiana Supreme Court Website:
- Navigate to the Louisiana Supreme Court Self-Help Resources
- Download standardized divorce petition forms
- Access instructions for proper completion
- Print forms for submission to the court
Legal Aid Organizations:
- Contact Southeast Louisiana Legal Services for eligibility screening
- Request assistance with divorce documentation
- Attend divorce clinics if available
- Receive guidance on proper form completion
Required Forms for Divorce Filing:
- Petition for Divorce
- Verification form
- Affidavit of Income and Expenses (if children or support involved)
- Child custody implementation plan (if applicable)
- In forma pauperis application (for fee waiver if eligible)
- Summons for service on spouse
Individuals should select forms appropriate to their specific situation (with/without children, covenant marriage, etc.). Completed forms must be notarized where indicated before filing with the Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court.
Jefferson Parish Law Library
200 Derbigny Street, Suite 5200
Gretna, LA 70053
(504) 364-2970
Jefferson Parish Law Library
Lookup Divorce Records in Jefferson County
Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court
Public Records Request | Jefferson Parish, LA
Center for Vital Records and Statistics | Louisiana Department of Health