So You Need a Copy of Your Divorce Decree in New York? We've Got You (Literally)
Let's face it, no one gets married with the intention of getting a divorce. But hey, life throws curveballs, and sometimes those curveballs come with a side of needing official documentation of your newfound singledom. If you're in New York and wondering how to snag a certified copy of your divorce decree, fear not! We're here to guide you through this bureaucratic jungle without any monkeys flinging metaphorical dung.
 |
| How To Get A Certified Copy Of Divorce Decree In New York |
Digging Up the Dirt (But Not Literally)
First things first, you need to figure out where your divorce decree is filed. In New York, it usually resides with the County Clerk in the county where the plaintiff (the person who filed for divorce) lived at the time.
Now, here's where things get a tad tricky depending on when your divorce happened:
- Pre-1963: For divorces finalized before January 1, 1963, you won't find a fancy certificate. You'll need a certified copy of the actual divorce decree, obtained from the County Clerk's office.
- Post-1963: If your divorce is a more recent one (welcome to the singles club!), you might be in luck. The New York State Department of Health might have a Certificate of Dissolution of Marriage on file for you. This is a separate document from the decree, but it works just fine for most purposes.
Finding the County Clerk:
QuickTip: Take a pause every few paragraphs.
A quick Google search for "[county name] New York County Clerk" should do the trick. Their website will likely have information on obtaining certified copies and any fees involved.
The Fun Part (Sort Of): Obtaining Your Certified Copy
There are two main ways to get your hands on that certified copy:
- In Person: This might involve a trip to the County Clerk's office. Be prepared to show some ID and potentially fill out a form. Fees will likely apply, so bring some cash or a check (because let's be honest, who uses those anymore?).
- By Mail: Some County Clerk's offices allow mail requests. Check their website for details and dust off your stamp collection (or hit up the nearest post office).
Extra! Extra! Read All About Exemplification!
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
Sometimes, you might need an "exemplification" of your divorce decree. This is basically a fancy way of saying an extra-certified copy that's been authenticated by the state. The process for obtaining one might be slightly different, so check with your County Clerk's office.
FAQ: Divorce Decree Edition
How to find out which county my divorce decree is filed in?
Usually, it's the county where the plaintiff resided when the divorce was filed.
Tip: Write down what you learned.
 |
How long does it take to get a certified copy of my divorce decree?
Processing times can vary, but it generally takes a few days to a few weeks.
Can someone else get a certified copy of my divorce decree for me?
QuickTip: Stop scrolling fast, start reading slow.
Maybe. Some counties might require a notarized letter from you authorizing the person to obtain the copy on your behalf.
Do I need an original or a certified copy of my divorce decree?
It depends on who is asking for it. Some institutions might require a certified copy for verification purposes.
What if my divorce happened before 1963?
You'll need a certified copy of the divorce decree itself, obtained from the County Clerk's office.
So there you have it! With a little legwork and maybe a touch of patience, you'll have your certified copy of your divorce decree in no time. Now go forth and conquer the world... as a single person!
 |
