logo
MaricopaRecords.us
Search Public Records
Maricopa Public Records /Maricopa County Divorce Records

Maricopa County Divorce Records

What Are Maricopa County Divorce Records?

Maricopa County divorce records are official legal documents and court records that document the dissolution of marriage within Maricopa County, Arizona. These records are maintained pursuant to Arizona Revised Statutes § 25-312, which governs the dissolution of marriage proceedings in the state. Divorce records serve as the official documentation of the termination of a marital relationship and contain pertinent information regarding the parties involved, the grounds for divorce, and the court's final judgment.

Divorce records in Maricopa County typically consist of several components:

  • Petition for dissolution of marriage
  • Response to the petition
  • Temporary orders
  • Financial affidavits
  • Parenting plans (if children are involved)
  • Property settlement agreements
  • Final decree of dissolution

These records are maintained by the Clerk of the Superior Court and serve multiple important purposes. Individuals may need to access divorce records for:

  • Legal proof of marital status change
  • Remarriage requirements
  • Name change documentation
  • Social Security benefits applications
  • Loan applications
  • Immigration matters
  • Estate planning and probate proceedings
  • Child custody and support enforcement

The Superior Court of Maricopa County processes approximately 24,000 divorce cases annually, making it one of the busiest family court systems in the southwestern United States.

Are Maricopa County Divorce Records Public?

Maricopa County divorce records 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 Arizona Public Records Law, but with significant exceptions and limitations.

The public accessibility of divorce records is governed by several legal frameworks:

The following aspects of divorce records are typically accessible to the public:

  • Case numbers and filing dates
  • Names of parties involved
  • Names of attorneys
  • Court dates and hearing schedules
  • Final judgments and decrees (with certain redactions)

However, several components of divorce records may be restricted from public access:

  • Financial information of the parties
  • Social Security numbers
  • Birth dates
  • Children's identifying information
  • Allegations of domestic violence
  • Medical and mental health information
  • Records sealed by court order

Certified divorce certificates, which provide official verification of a divorce, have more restricted access than general court records. Pursuant to Arizona law, only the following individuals may obtain certified divorce certificates:

  • Parties to the divorce
  • Legal representatives of the parties
  • Individuals with a tangible legal interest (as determined by statute)

The Maricopa County Superior Court maintains a public access portal for basic case information, but certain sensitive documents require in-person requests with proper identification.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Maricopa County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in Maricopa County may utilize several methods to locate and obtain these documents. The process varies depending on the type of record sought and the requestor's relationship to the case.

For general divorce case information:

  1. Visit the Maricopa County Superior Court's Public Access to Court Information online portal
  2. Search using party names, case numbers, or other identifying information
  3. Review basic case information available through the public portal
  4. Note any restrictions on viewable documents

For certified copies of divorce decrees:

  1. Complete the Application for Certified Copies of Court Records form
  2. Provide valid government-issued photo identification
  3. Submit the request in person at:

Clerk of the Superior Court - Customer Service Center
601 W. Jackson Street
Phoenix, AZ 85003
602-372-5375
Clerk of the Superior Court

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Or:

Clerk of the Superior Court - Northeast Regional Court Center
18380 N. 40th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85032
602-372-5375
Clerk of the Superior Court

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

  1. Pay the required fee ($26.00 for the first copy, $17.00 for each additional copy of the same record)
  2. Receive the certified copy (same day for in-person requests if records are readily available)

For comprehensive divorce case files:

  1. Submit a Records Request Form to the Clerk of the Superior Court
  2. Provide the case number if known (searches without case numbers incur additional fees)
  3. Pay applicable search and copy fees
  4. Allow processing time (typically 5-10 business days)

Requests may also be submitted by mail with proper documentation and payment to the Customer Service Center address listed above.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Maricopa County Online?

Maricopa County provides several digital resources for accessing divorce records online. These electronic systems offer varying levels of information depending on the user's needs and authorization status.

The primary online resources for divorce record searches include:

  1. Maricopa County Superior Court Public Case Lookup

    • Provides basic case information including:
      • Case number
      • Filing date
      • Party names
      • Case type
      • Judge assignment
      • Scheduled hearings
      • Case status
    • No registration required for basic searches
    • No fee for basic case information

  2. Arizona Judicial Branch Public Access Case Lookup

    • Statewide case search system
    • Includes Maricopa County cases
    • Provides similar information to the county system
    • Allows searching across multiple counties

  3. eAccess Portal

    • Requires registration and approval
    • Provides access to non-confidential documents
    • Used primarily by attorneys and authorized parties
    • Fees apply for document access

To conduct an online search:

  1. Navigate to the preferred online portal
  2. Select "Family Court" or "Domestic Relations" as the case category
  3. Enter search criteria:
    • Party name (last name, first name)
    • Case number (if known)
    • Filing date range (optional)
  4. Review search results
  5. Note that complete documents are generally not viewable online
  6. Record case numbers for documents you wish to request in full

Online access is limited to non-confidential information. Complete divorce files, including all pleadings and exhibits, typically require in-person requests or formal written requests to the Clerk of the Superior Court.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Maricopa County?

Members of the public seeking no-cost access to divorce records in Maricopa County have several options available, though free access typically provides limited information compared to paid services.

Free resources for divorce record searches include:

  1. Superior Court Public Access Terminal

    • Located at:

    Maricopa County Superior Court Law Library Resource Center
    101 W. Jefferson Street, East Court Building, 1st Floor
    Phoenix, AZ 85003
    602-506-3461
    Law Library Resource Center

    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    • Provides access to public case information
    • Allows viewing of non-confidential documents
    • No fee for searching or viewing
    • Printing fees apply ($0.50 per page)

  2. Online Case Lookup

    • Free basic case information
    • No registration required
    • Limited to case status and scheduling information
    • Does not include document images

  3. Law Library Resources

    • Public access computers with legal research tools
    • Reference assistance from law librarians
    • Access to legal forms and self-help materials
    • Located at the Law Library Resource Center addresses above

  4. Family Court Self-Service Center

    • Provides information about divorce procedures
    • Offers free forms and instructions
    • Staff cannot provide legal advice but can assist with procedural questions
    • Located at multiple courthouse locations throughout Maricopa County

When utilizing free resources, requestors should note:

  • Photo identification is required for in-person access
  • Electronic devices may be restricted in courthouse facilities
  • Time limits may apply for public terminal usage during busy periods
  • Complete case files are not available through free online resources
  • Certified copies always require payment of statutory fees

For individuals who qualify based on income guidelines, the Community Legal Services organization may provide assistance with accessing and understanding divorce records at no cost.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Maricopa County

Divorce records in Maricopa County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the entire dissolution process from initiation to final judgment. These records contain detailed information about the marital relationship, the grounds for dissolution, and the court's determinations regarding various aspects of the separation.

A complete divorce file typically includes:

  1. Initial Pleadings

    • Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
    • Summons
    • Preliminary Injunction
    • Response/Answer to Petition
    • Counter-Petition (if applicable)

  2. Financial Documentation

    • Affidavit of Financial Information
    • Disclosure statements
    • Property and debt inventories
    • Tax returns (may be sealed)
    • Business valuation documents (if applicable)

  3. Child-Related Documents (if children involved)

    • Parenting Plan
    • Child Support Worksheet
    • Child Support Order
    • Custody evaluations (often confidential)
    • Guardian ad Litem reports (if appointed)

  4. Procedural Documents

    • Proof of Service
    • Notice of Hearing
    • Minute entries
    • Temporary orders
    • Motions and responses

  5. Settlement Documents

    • Marital Settlement Agreement
    • Property Settlement Agreement
    • Mediation agreements

  6. Final Documents

    • Decree of Dissolution of Marriage
    • Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs)
    • Name change orders (if applicable)
    • Child support income withholding orders

  7. Post-Judgment Filings

    • Modifications
    • Enforcement actions
    • Appeals
    • Contempt proceedings

The Decree of Dissolution, which serves as the final judgment in a divorce case, contains particularly important information, including:

  • Legal names of both parties
  • Date and location of marriage
  • Date of separation
  • Grounds for divorce
  • Division of marital property and debts
  • Spousal maintenance determinations
  • Child custody and parenting time arrangements
  • Child support obligations
  • Name restoration provisions
  • Court's jurisdiction statement

Pursuant to Arizona Revised Statutes § 25-318, the court must provide for a just division of community property, which will be reflected in the divorce decree.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Maricopa County?

Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Maricopa County must obtain a certified copy of the Decree of Dissolution of Marriage. This document serves as legal verification that a marriage has been legally terminated and is accepted by government agencies, financial institutions, and other organizations requiring proof of marital status.

To obtain certified proof of divorce:

  1. In-Person Requests:

    • Visit the Customer Service Center:

    Clerk of the Superior Court - Customer Service Center
    601 W. Jackson Street
    Phoenix, AZ 85003
    602-372-5375
    Clerk of the Superior Court

    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    • Complete the Application for Certified Copies form
    • Present valid government-issued photo identification
    • Provide the case number (if known) or names of both parties and approximate date of divorce
    • Pay the certification fee ($26.00 for first copy, $17.00 for each additional copy)
    • Receive certified copies (typically same day if records are readily available)

  2. Mail Requests:

    • Download and complete the Application for Certified Copies form
    • Include a copy of valid government-issued photo identification
    • Provide a self-addressed stamped envelope
    • Include payment by check or money order
    • Mail to:

    Clerk of the Superior Court
    Attn: Copy Services
    601 W. Jackson Street
    Phoenix, AZ 85003

    • Allow 2-3 weeks for processing and delivery

  3. Attorney Requests:

    • Attorneys of record may request certified copies through the eAccess system
    • Standard certification fees apply
    • Electronic delivery options may be available

Certified copies contain an embossed seal and signature of the Clerk of Court, making them official legal documents. These copies are required for:

  • Remarriage license applications
  • Name change with Social Security Administration
  • Passport applications or renewals
  • Immigration proceedings
  • Military benefits
  • Insurance claims
  • Retirement account distributions

For divorce proceedings completed before 1950, requestors should contact:

Arizona State Archives
1901 W. Madison Street
Phoenix, AZ 85009
602-926-3720
Arizona State Archives

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Maricopa County?

While divorce proceedings in Maricopa County are generally matters of public record, Arizona law provides several mechanisms through which certain aspects of divorce cases may be kept confidential. The court balances the public's right to access judicial records against individual privacy interests and safety concerns.

Confidentiality in divorce proceedings may be established through:

  1. Sealing Orders

    • Pursuant to Arizona Rules of Family Law Procedure, Rule 7, the court may seal specific documents or entire case files
    • Requires demonstration of good cause
    • Must be narrowly tailored to protect legitimate privacy interests
    • Requires formal motion and judicial approval

  2. Statutory Protections

    • Arizona Revised Statutes § 25-403.03 provides for confidentiality in cases involving domestic violence
    • Financial account numbers, Social Security numbers, and other personal identifiers are automatically redacted
    • Children's identifying information receives heightened protection

  3. Confidential Alternative Dispute Resolution

    • Mediation communications are confidential by statute
    • Settlement conferences may be conducted privately
    • Agreements reached through alternative dispute resolution may limit public information

  4. Address Confidentiality Program

  5. Sensitive Data Sheet

    • Personal identifying information is submitted on a separate Sensitive Data Sheet
    • Not accessible to the general public
    • Includes birth dates, Social Security numbers, and financial account information

Circumstances that may warrant confidentiality include:

  • Domestic violence or harassment concerns
  • Child abuse allegations
  • Business trade secrets or proprietary information
  • Financial details that could facilitate identity theft
  • Mental health or substance abuse treatment records
  • Paternity disputes

To request confidentiality:

  1. File a Motion to Seal with the court
  2. Clearly identify specific documents to be sealed
  3. Provide legal basis and factual support for confidentiality
  4. Propose the least restrictive means to protect privacy
  5. Attend hearing if scheduled by the court

Even when records are sealed, certain information remains available to:

  • Parties to the case
  • Attorneys of record
  • Court personnel
  • Law enforcement agencies
  • Child welfare agencies

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Maricopa County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Maricopa County varies significantly based on multiple factors, including case complexity, level of agreement between parties, court caseloads, and statutory waiting periods. Understanding these timeframes helps individuals set realistic expectations when initiating dissolution proceedings.

The minimum timeframe for any divorce in Maricopa County is 60 days from the date of service of the petition, as established by Arizona Revised Statutes § 25-329, which mandates a cooling-off period before a divorce can be finalized.

Typical timeframes by divorce type:

  1. Uncontested Divorce (Complete Agreement)

    • 60-90 days from filing to decree
    • Requires full agreement on all issues
    • Consent Decree can be submitted after 60-day waiting period
    • May be expedited through the court's Early Resolution Program

  2. Default Divorce (No Response)

    • 80-120 days from filing to decree
    • Occurs when respondent fails to file a response within 20 days (if served in Arizona)
    • Default hearing scheduled approximately 10-20 days after application
    • Court may require additional documentation

  3. Contested Divorce (Partial or No Agreement)

    • 6-12 months from filing to decree
    • Requires Resolution Management Conference (typically 90-120 days after filing)
    • May involve temporary orders hearings
    • Discovery process adds significant time
    • Settlement conferences typically scheduled 5-8 months after filing

  4. Complex Divorce (High Assets/Custody Disputes)

    • 12-24+ months from filing to decree
    • May be assigned to complex case management
    • Often involves expert witnesses (business valuators, custody evaluators)
    • Multiple pre-trial hearings
    • Trial dates typically scheduled 12+ months from filing

According to the Maricopa County Superior Court Annual Report, the median time to disposition for family court cases is approximately 7.2 months, though individual cases may vary significantly from this average.

Factors that commonly extend divorce timeframes include:

  • Child custody evaluations (add 3-6 months)
  • Business valuation disputes (add 2-4 months)
  • Requests for temporary orders (add 30-60 days)
  • Discovery disputes (variable impact)
  • Judicial reassignments (variable impact)
  • Attorney scheduling conflicts
  • Party-requested continuances

The court offers several programs to expedite resolution, including:

  • Conciliation Services mediation
  • Early Resolution Conferences
  • Alternative Dispute Resolution programs
  • Family Court Settlement Conferences

How Long Does Maricopa County Keep Divorce Records?

Maricopa County maintains divorce records according to a structured retention schedule that balances historical preservation needs with practical storage limitations. The retention periods vary based on document type, historical significance, and legal requirements.

The primary retention periods for divorce records are governed by:

Standard retention periods for divorce records:

  1. Case Files (Physical Documents)

    • Current practice: Permanent retention of all divorce case files
    • Pre-1950 files: Transferred to Arizona State Archives
    • 1950-2000 files: Maintained in court archives
    • Post-2000 files: Increasingly maintained in electronic format

  2. Electronic Records

    • Case Management System data: Permanent retention
    • Scanned documents: Permanent retention
    • E-filed documents (post-2014): Permanent retention
    • Audio/video recordings: Minimum 7-year retention

  3. Exhibits

    • Documentary exhibits: Returned to parties or destroyed after appeal period
    • Physical exhibits: Returned to parties or destroyed after appeal period
    • Sensitive exhibits: Special handling procedures apply

  4. Judgments and Decrees

    • Decrees of Dissolution: Permanent retention
    • Property Settlement Agreements: Permanent retention
    • Child Support Orders: Permanent retention until youngest child reaches age 28
    • Qualified Domestic Relations Orders: Permanent retention

  5. Financial Records

    • Child Support Payment Records: 3 years after youngest child reaches age 18
    • Fee Payment Records: 7 years after final disposition

For historical research purposes, older divorce records may be accessed through:

Arizona State Archives
1901 W. Madison Street
Phoenix, AZ 85009
602-926-3720
Arizona State Archives

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Individuals seeking copies of older records should note that:

  • Pre-1950 records may be in fragile condition
  • Microfilm copies may be available for some older records
  • Research fees may apply for extensive searches
  • Advance appointments are recommended for historical research

The Clerk of the Superior Court continues to digitize older records to improve accessibility while ensuring preservation of these important legal documents.

How To Get a Divorce In Maricopa County

Obtaining a divorce in Maricopa County requires following specific procedural steps established by Arizona law and local court rules. The process varies somewhat depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, but all dissolutions follow the same general framework.

To initiate a divorce in Maricopa County:

  1. Determine Eligibility

    • At least one spouse must have been an Arizona resident for 90 days prior to filing
    • Military exception: Service members stationed in Arizona for 90 days
    • File in county where either spouse resides

  2. Prepare Required Documents

    • Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
    • Summons
    • Preliminary Injunction
    • Notice of Right to Convert Health Insurance
    • Sensitive Data Sheet
    • Notice Regarding Creditors
    • Parenting Plan and Child Support Worksheet (if children involved)

  3. File Documents with the Court

    • Submit paperwork to:

    Clerk of the Superior Court - Customer Service Center
    601 W. Jackson Street
    Phoenix, AZ 85003
    602-372-5375
    Clerk of the Superior Court

    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    • Pay filing fee ($349 for Petition, additional fees may apply)
    • Fee waivers/deferrals available for qualifying individuals

  4. Serve the Other Party

  5. Wait for Response Period

    • 20 days if served in Arizona
    • 30 days if served outside Arizona
    • 60 days if served by publication

  6. Complete Divorce Education Program

    • Required if minor children involved
    • Available online or in-person
    • Certificate of completion filed with court

  7. Financial Disclosure

    • Both parties must exchange Affidavits of Financial Information
    • Required disclosure of assets, debts, income, and expenses
    • Due within 40 days of service

  8. Resolution Pathway

    • Uncontested: Submit Consent Decree after 60-day waiting period
    • Default: Apply for default if no response filed, attend default hearing
    • Contested: Attend Resolution Management Conference, participate in settlement efforts
    • Trial: Present evidence and testimony if settlement not reached

  9. Finalize Divorce

    • Judge signs Decree of Dissolution
    • Clerk processes and enters decree
    • Certified copies available for $26.00

For assistance with the divorce process:

Superior Court Law Library Resource Center
101 W. Jefferson Street, East Court Building, 1st Floor
Phoenix, AZ 85003
602-506-3461
Law Library Resource Center

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

How To Get Divorce Papers In Maricopa County

Individuals seeking to initiate divorce proceedings in Maricopa County have multiple options for obtaining the necessary legal forms. The Superior Court provides standardized forms for self-represented litigants that comply with Arizona law and local court rules.

Divorce papers may be obtained through the following methods:

  1. Online Access

    • Visit the Maricopa County Superior Court Family Court Forms website
    • Select appropriate packet based on circumstances:
      • Divorce with Children
      • Divorce without Children
      • Legal Separation
      • Annulment
    • Download forms in PDF format
    • Forms include detailed instructions
    • Available 24/7 at no cost

  2. Law Library Resource Centers

    • In-person assistance available at:

    Downtown Phoenix Law Library Resource Center
    101 W. Jefferson Street, East Court Building, 1st Floor
    Phoenix, AZ 85003
    602-506-3461
    Law Library Resource Center

    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    Mesa Law Library Resource Center
    222 E. Javelina Avenue, 1st Floor
    Mesa, AZ 85210
    602-506-3461
    Law Library Resource Center

    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    • Staff available to help identify appropriate forms
    • Printing services available ($0.50 per page)
    • Reference materials available for legal research

  3. ezCourtForms

    • Interactive online form preparation system
    • Guides users through form completion
    • Available through Law Library Resource Center computers
    • Produces court-ready documents

  4. Legal Document Preparers

    • Licensed professionals who can prepare forms
    • Fee-based service
    • Cannot provide legal advice
    • List of certified preparers available through the Arizona Supreme Court

  5. Legal Aid Services

    • Community Legal Services provides assistance to qualifying low-income individuals
    • Volunteer Lawyers Program offers limited pro bono services
    • Appointments required

Standard divorce packets include:

  • Instructions
  • Petition for Dissolution
  • Summons
  • Preliminary Injunction
  • Notice Regarding Creditors
  • Sensitive Data Sheet
  • Parenting Plan (if children involved)
  • Child Support Worksheet (if children involved)
  • Affidavit of Financial Information
  • Decree of Dissolution
  • Service documents

When obtaining forms, individuals should:

  • Verify they have the most current version
  • Read all instructions before completing
  • Complete forms in black ink or electronically
  • Make copies of all documents before filing
  • Retain copies for personal records

Lookup Divorce Records in Maricopa County

Family Court Case Information

Family Court Forms

Public Access Case Lookup

Public Access to Court Information

Vital Records - ADHS

Other Categories in Arizona
Criminal Records Court Records Inmate Records Arrest records Warrant Search Property Records Divorce Records