So You Need a Copy of Your Philadelphia Divorce Decree: Let's Unearth That Buried Treasure (Metaphorically Speaking)
Ah, divorce decrees. The legal documents that declare, "It's over!" with all the fanfare of a participation trophy. But hey, sometimes you gotta need what you gotta need, even if it is proof your happily ever after took a detour. If you find yourself in Philadelphia needing a copy of your divorce decree, fear not! We're about to embark on a quest for this officialdom artifact, and by the end, you'll have it in hand (or digitally, if you prefer).
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| How Do I Get A Copy Of My Divorce Decree In Philadelphia |
The Great Hall of Records: In Person or By Carrier Pigeon (Maybe Not)
There are two main ways to snag your divorce decree:
Reminder: Short breaks can improve focus.
In Person: Breathe in the majesty of bureaucracy! Head to the Office of Judicial Records Civil Filing Unit (Room 296, City Hall) and deal with things face-to-face. Cash, certified check, or money order are your comrades-in-arms here (credit cards are cool too, but only if you show some ID). Remember: Bring the following:
- Both your name and your ex's name (blast from the past, right?)
- The approximate year of the divorce (unless you have a memory like an elephant)
By Mail: For the more introverted decree-seeker, a written request is your weapon of choice. Send it to the same address as above (Office of Judicial Records Civil Filing Unit, 1501 Arch St., Room 296, Philadelphia, PA 19102) with the same info as the in-person method, plus a self-addressed stamped envelope and a money order/certified check for $41.58 made payable to the Office of Judicial Records.
Important Note: For both methods, you might need to pay a $15 research fee if you can't pinpoint the exact year of the divorce.
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
The Fee Files: A Glimpse into the Cost of Closure
Here's the skinny on the price tag:
Tip: Read slowly to catch the finer details.
- Certified Copy: This is the official version, the MVP of divorce decrees. It'll set you back a cool $25.
- Exemplified Copy: Need something fancy for international use? This is your guy, but it'll cost a bit more at $50.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions (for the Forgetful Soul)
- How long does it take to get a copy by mail? Give it about 2-3 weeks for the postal service to do its thing.
- Can I get my decree online? Nope, not at this time. Looks like a trip to the Hall of Records or a letter-writing adventure is in your future.
- What if my divorce was finalized before 1885? Uh oh, this might get tricky. Pre-1885 records might be chilling in the archives. Your best bet is to contact the Pennsylvania State Archives for assistance.
- I lost all my info! Help! Don't panic! The helpful folks at the Office of Judicial Records Civil Filing Unit can be reached at 215-686-2530. They might be able to help you with your archeological dig through your memory.
- Do I need a lawyer to get a copy of my divorce decree? Negative. You can handle this decree-retrieval mission yourself.
So there you have it! With a little preparation and maybe a touch of perseverance, you'll have your divorce decree in hand. Now you can use it for whatever post-divorce adventures life throws your way (like getting remarried, just sayin').
Tip: Read the whole thing before forming an opinion.
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