Vigo County Divorce Records are official legal documents that show the full history of a divorce case filed in Vigo County, Indiana. These records include the original petition, court filings, final judgment, any changes made after the ruling, and the certified divorce certificate. All documents are kept by the Vigo County Clerk of the Circuit Court and stored in the Records Room at the courthouse. They remain on-site for at least ten years before being moved to the Indiana State Archives for long-term preservation. Anyone can request copies by filling out a form, showing a valid government-issued photo ID, and paying $12.00 per document. Requests can be made in person, by mail, or online through the county’s official portal, which delivers PDF copies within five business days.
How to Request Vigo County Divorce Records
To get a copy of Vigo County Divorce Records, you must follow a simple process set by the Clerk’s Office. Start by completing the standard request form available on the Vigo County website or at the courthouse. You’ll need to provide your full name, contact information, the names of both parties involved in the divorce, and the case number if known. Along with the form, present a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card. The fee is $12.00 per document, payable by cash, check, or credit card depending on how you submit your request. In-person visits are handled at 33 South 3rd Street, Terre Haute, IN 47807. Mail requests should include a self-addressed stamped envelope and be sent to the same address. Online requests go through the county’s secure portal and usually return digital copies within five business days.
Required Information for Record Requests
- Full names of both spouses (maiden name if applicable)
- Case number or approximate date of divorce
- Requester’s contact information
- Valid government-issued photo ID
- Payment of $12.00 per document
Where to Find Vigo County Divorce Records
Vigo County Divorce Records are maintained by the Clerk of the Circuit Court, located on the first floor of the Vigo County Courthouse. This office serves as the official keeper of all court filings, including divorce cases, civil suits, criminal records, probate matters, and family law actions. The Records Room holds active and closed case files for at least ten years. After that, older records are transferred to the Indiana State Archives, where they remain accessible to the public under state law. The Clerk’s Office also provides a self-service terminal inside the courthouse. This terminal lets users search by party name, case number, or filing date. Staff members are available during regular business hours—Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.—to assist with searches or answer questions. For phone support, call (812) 231-4499.
Types of Documents Included in Vigo County Divorce Records
Vigo County Divorce Records contain several key legal documents that make up the complete case file. The first is the original divorce petition, filed by one spouse to start the legal process. This document lists reasons for the divorce, requests for property division, child custody, and support. Next comes the response from the other spouse, which may agree or contest the claims. The court then issues temporary orders covering issues like child support, visitation, and use of property during the case. Once the case concludes, the judge signs the final judgment of divorce, which legally ends the marriage. Any later changes—such as modifications to custody or support—are added as amendment orders. Finally, the Clerk issues a certified divorce certificate, which serves as official proof the marriage was dissolved. All these papers are part of the public record unless sealed by court order.
Common Documents Found in a Divorce File
| Document Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Original Petition | Filed by one spouse to begin the divorce process |
| Final Judgment | Court order that legally ends the marriage |
| Amendment Orders | Changes made after the final ruling (e.g., custody updates) |
| Divorce Certificate | Official proof of divorce issued by the Clerk |
| Temporary Orders | Interim rulings on support, custody, or property |
Online Access to Vigo County Divorce Records
Vigo County offers an online portal for requesting divorce records without visiting the courthouse. This system allows users to submit requests 24/7 and receive certified PDF copies via email within five business days. To use the portal, go to the Vigo County Clerk’s official website and select the “Online Records Request” option. You’ll need to create a free account, upload a copy of your photo ID, and enter the required case details. The $12.00 fee is paid securely online using a credit or debit card. Once processed, the digital copy includes an official seal and signature, making it valid for legal, employment, or personal use. The online system also tracks request status and sends email updates. This service is ideal for people who live far away or need records quickly. However, some sensitive cases may require in-person verification due to privacy laws.
In-Person and Mail Request Procedures
If you prefer to request Vigo County Divorce Records in person, visit the Clerk’s Office at 33 South 3rd Street, Terre Haute, IN 47807. Bring your completed request form, a valid photo ID, and payment. A clerk will verify your identity and pull the correct file. Standard processing takes one to two business days. For urgent needs, the office offers same-day retrieval for an extra $15.00 fee. Documents can be printed on 8.5 × 11-inch paper or saved as high-resolution PDFs on a USB drive. Mail requests must include a completed form, a photocopy of your ID, a check or money order for $12.00 per document, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Mail to: Vigo County Clerk of Circuit Court, 33 S 3rd St, Terre Haute, IN 47807. Processing time for mail is five to seven business days after receipt. Always call (812) 231-4499 to confirm receipt if you don’t hear back within two weeks.
Fees and Payment Options for Divorce Records
The cost to obtain Vigo County Divorce Records is $12.00 per document. This fee covers search, retrieval, certification, and copying. If you need multiple documents—such as the petition, judgment, and certificate—each costs $12.00. Expedited same-day service adds $15.00 to the total. Payment methods vary by request type. In person, you can pay with cash, check, or credit card. By mail, only checks or money orders are accepted—make them payable to “Vigo County Clerk.” Online payments use secure credit or debit card processing. No refunds are given once the search begins, even if no records are found. Fee waivers are not available for divorce records, as they are considered public information under Indiana law. Always keep your receipt as proof of payment.
Record Retention and Archival Process
Vigo County follows strict rules for keeping and storing divorce records. Active case files are kept in the Clerk’s Records Room for at least ten years. After that, closed files are transferred to the Indiana State Archives in Indianapolis. These archived records remain public and accessible upon request. The Archives preserve them permanently for historical, legal, and genealogical use. If you’re searching for a divorce that happened more than ten years ago, contact both the Vigo County Clerk and the Indiana State Archives. The Clerk can confirm if the file was moved, while the Archives handle retrieval from off-site storage. This two-step process ensures no record is lost. Under Indiana Code 5-15, all court records must be preserved unless destroyed by court order, which rarely happens for divorce cases.
Who Can Access Vigo County Divorce Records?
Anyone can access Vigo County Divorce Records because they are public records under Indiana law. This includes individuals named in the case, family members, attorneys, researchers, journalists, and genealogists. There is no requirement to prove a “legitimate interest” unless the record has been sealed by the court—which is rare and usually involves minor children or domestic violence. Even third parties can request copies by providing the case number and paying the fee. However, the requester must show a valid photo ID to prevent fraud. Minors under 18 must have a parent or guardian make the request on their behalf. Law enforcement and government agencies may access records without fees for official purposes. All requests are logged to protect privacy and ensure accountability.
Privacy and Sealed Divorce Records
Most Vigo County Divorce Records are open to the public. However, certain cases may be sealed by court order to protect sensitive information. Common reasons include protecting the identity of minors, preventing harassment, or safeguarding victims of abuse. Sealed records are not available to the general public—only to parties involved, their attorneys, or authorized agencies. To check if a record is sealed, contact the Clerk’s Office with the case number. If sealed, you’ll need a court order to access it. Judges decide sealing requests based on evidence of harm or privacy risk. Once sealed, the record remains closed unless the court lifts the order. This balance ensures transparency while protecting vulnerable individuals.
Using Divorce Records for Legal and Personal Purposes
Vigo County Divorce Records serve many important uses. Legally, they prove marital status for remarriage, immigration, or name changes. Employers may request them for background checks. Attorneys use them in custody battles or asset disputes. Genealogists rely on them to trace family history. Individuals may need them to update Social Security records or claim benefits. Certified copies from the Clerk’s Office carry an official seal and are accepted nationwide. Always request a certified copy if using the record for legal purposes. Uncertified prints from the self-service terminal are for reference only. Keep your records safe—losing them may require another paid request.
Common Challenges When Requesting Records
Some people face issues when requesting Vigo County Divorce Records. Missing case numbers can delay searches—clerks may need extra time to locate files by name and date. Spelling errors in names also cause problems. If the divorce was finalized over ten years ago, the file might be in the state archives, requiring a separate request. Payment errors—like incorrect fees or missing ID—will halt processing. Online portal users sometimes forget to check spam folders for email replies. To avoid delays, double-check all details before submitting. Call (812) 231-4499 if you’re unsure. The Clerk’s Office staff are trained to help but cannot search without proper information.
Related Services at the Vigo County Clerk’s Office
The Vigo County Clerk’s Office handles more than just divorce records. It also manages marriage licenses, civil filings, probate cases, criminal records, and juvenile files. The Marriage License Bureau issues licenses for $25.00 for residents and $60.00 for non-residents. Civil Filings accepts lawsuits, motions, and judgments, with fees starting at $25.00. The Public Records division helps locate deeds, plat maps, and licensing data. All services operate from the same location: 33 South 3rd Street, Terre Haute. Staff are available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For questions, call (812) 231-4499 or visit the self-service terminal inside the courthouse.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The Vigo County Clerk of the Circuit Court is located at 33 South 3rd Street, Terre Haute, IN 47807. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Phone inquiries can be made at (812) 231-4499. Email requests are not accepted for record retrieval due to security policies. Walk-in visitors should use the main entrance and check in at the front desk. The self-service terminal is available during business hours for free searches. For mailed requests, allow five to seven business days for processing. Online portal users receive responses within five business days. Always include a return address and phone number in case follow-up is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vigo County Divorce Records
People often have questions about how to get, use, or understand Vigo County Divorce Records. Below are answers to the most common concerns. These responses are based on current Indiana law and Vigo County procedures as of 2024. Always verify details with the Clerk’s Office if your situation is unique.
Can I get a divorce record if I don’t know the case number?
Yes, you can still request Vigo County Divorce Records without a case number. The Clerk’s Office can search by the full names of both spouses and the approximate date of the divorce. Provide as much detail as possible, including maiden names and the year the divorce was finalized. Staff will conduct a manual search, which may take longer than a case-number request. There is no extra fee for this service, but processing could extend to three to five business days. If the names are common, additional information like birthdates or addresses may help narrow the results. Always call ahead if you’re unsure—clerk staff can guide you through the best search method.
Are divorce records available for free?
No, Vigo County Divorce Records are not free. The standard fee is $12.00 per document, which covers search, certification, and copying costs. This fee is set by Indiana state law and applies to all requesters, including family members and attorneys. There are no waivers for low-income individuals when requesting divorce records. However, some nonprofit legal aid organizations may assist with fees in special cases. Free access is only available through the self-service terminal for viewing—printing or certifying still requires payment. Always bring exact change or a check if paying in person to avoid delays.
How long does it take to receive records by mail?
Mail requests for Vigo County Divorce Records take five to seven business days to process after the Clerk’s Office receives them. This includes time for staff to locate the file, copy documents, certify them, and mail them back. Delivery speed depends on the U.S. Postal Service, so allow extra time for rural areas or holidays. To speed things up, include a self-addressed stamped envelope with tracking. If you haven’t received your records within two weeks, call (812) 231-4499 to confirm receipt. Online requests are faster—usually completed within five business days—and delivered by email.
Can I use an online copy for legal purposes?
Yes, PDF copies from the Vigo County online portal are legally valid if they include the official seal and signature of the Clerk. These digital records are accepted by courts, employers, and government agencies nationwide. However, always check with the requesting party first—some institutions prefer physical copies. Never alter or edit the PDF, as this voids its authenticity. If you need a wet-ink signature or raised seal, visit the courthouse in person. The online system is secure and encrypted to protect your personal information during transmission.
What if the divorce happened more than 10 years ago?
If the divorce was finalized more than ten years ago, the records may have been transferred to the Indiana State Archives. Contact the Vigo County Clerk first to confirm the file’s location. If it’s been moved, the Clerk will provide instructions for requesting it from the Archives. There may be a small retrieval fee, and processing can take up to two weeks. Archived records are still public and accessible to anyone with proper ID. This system ensures long-term preservation while keeping records available for research, legal, or personal use.
Can someone else request my divorce record?
Yes, third parties can request Vigo County Divorce Records as long as they provide the case number, pay the fee, and show a valid photo ID. Indiana law treats divorce records as public information, so no special permission is needed from the individuals involved. However, if the record is sealed by court order, only authorized parties (like attorneys or law enforcement) can access it. Genealogists, journalists, and researchers commonly use these records for legitimate purposes. Always be cautious—only share your case number with trusted individuals to prevent misuse.
Are divorce records the same as marriage records?
No, divorce records and marriage records are different documents. Marriage records prove a couple was legally married and are issued by the Marriage License Bureau. Divorce records prove the marriage was legally ended and are issued by the Circuit Court Clerk. You may need both when applying for benefits, changing your name, or remarrying. In Vigo County, marriage licenses cost $25.00 for residents and $60.00 for non-residents. Divorce records cost $12.00 per document. Both are available at the same courthouse location but through separate offices. Always specify which type you need when making a request.