Demetria Graves | November 26, 2025 | Divorce
If you are divorced and need a copy of your divorce decree—or you’re wondering whether other people can access your divorce records—it helps to understand how California handles public court documents.
Below is an overview of what qualifies as a public record, where you can search for divorce information, and when records can be sealed or redacted.
California Public Records Law
In California, divorce records are generally considered public documents. State law strongly favors open access to court records, meaning most filings are available for public review unless a judge orders otherwise.
For divorces finalized between 1962 and June 1984, individuals may request a Certificate of Record from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). This certificate confirms the existence of a divorce but does not include the full decree.
Because of these rules, it is typically possible to look up divorce records in California—though access may vary depending on the type of information you seek.
Accessing Divorce Records Online
To obtain divorce records after June 1984, you must first identify the county where the divorce was filed and the associated Superior Court. Many California courts have online dockets that provide the following information:
- Case number
- Filing date
- The names of the parties
- A list of the pleadings
- A list of the orders the judge in the case has made
However, this information does not provide copies of the parties’ filings. California rules prohibit state courts from posting divorce filings online.
Obtaining Divorce Records in Person
If you want information beyond the court docket and the case summary, you will most likely need to contact the courthouse where the divorce petition was filed. You will contact the court clerk for the county Superior Court.
You may be able to request information over the phone, by fax, by email, or by visiting in person, depending on the court’s rules. You will also likely be required to pay a fee and possibly fill out a request form.
You may need specific information when requesting the court record, such as:
- The full names of both parties
- The date of the divorce
- The case number
This is the most comprehensive way to obtain California divorce records, as you can receive copies of all decisions the judge issued, including the final divorce decree, which sets out the complete terms of divorce, including property division, child custody, child support, and spousal support.
The public can generally obtain these records, but only the parties and the lawyers in the case can receive authorized copies that have the court’s seal.
California Rules for Sealing or Redacting Divorce Records
Some divorcing couples prefer to keep sensitive information private. Although high-profile or celebrity cases often receive media attention, any person may request confidentiality if their case involves personal or sensitive material.
Options for privacy include:
Redaction
Parties may request that certain information—such as Social Security numbers or bank account numbers—be redacted. When this information is required for the court file, attorneys often submit a separate confidential declaration while filing a redacted version for the public record.
Parties may also agree to keep specific financial or business information confidential, including:
- Business valuations
- Credit card statements
- Bank account information
Redaction is the most common method courts use to protect sensitive information.
Sealing Records
In limited circumstances, California courts may seal individual documents or an entire divorce case. The party seeking to seal records must provide a compelling reason that outweighs the state’s presumption of public access.
Reasons a court might consider include:
- Protection of minor children
- Allegations of domestic violence
- Disclosure of private medical or mental health information
- Sensitive business or financial details
Even in these cases, the court evaluates whether sealing is necessary—and whether less restrictive alternatives, like redaction, would suffice.
Contact an Experienced Pasadena Divorce Lawyer for Legal Assistance
If you need help locating divorce records or protecting sensitive information in or around Pasadena, CA, an experienced divorce lawyer can guide you through the process and explain your options.
To learn more about how a California divorce attorney can help, please contact our experienced family law attorneys at The Graves Law Firm for a confidential consultation today. We’ll be happy to assist you.
The Graves Law Firm Pasadena
1055 E Colorado Blvd #500a, Pasadena, CA 91101
(626) 365-1037
Open 24 hrs.