How to Obtain Divorce Certificates in Massachusetts?

If you need to validate your marital status, name change or even your identity you might need a copy of your divorce certificate. You can obtain one if you were divorced in Massachusetts and follow the procedure outlined below.

Restrictions

Divorce records are open to the public in Massachusetts, so anyone can request a copy of a divorce record.

The Process

Massachusetts has been retaining divorce records since 1841 and continued to keep all birth, marriage, death and divorce records public. Although you can obtain a certified copy of your divorce certificate through the court system, the Massachusetts Registry of Vital Records also offers a pretty easy way to obtain them. They have a fully functional online system where you fill out the search form, enter payment information and receive your copy.

They offer five options. The first option provides you with a photocopy of your divorce certificate. The second is to search for and provide a photocopy of the certificate along with a photocopy of the full divorce agreement. Option C allows you to obtain a certified copy of your divorce decree. The fifth option is for a "Certificate of Divorce NISI" along with a copy of the divorce separation agreement, and the final option offers you an Authenticated or Exemplified Divorce Packets to refile your divorce in another state.
Depending on the package you choose, there are varying fees.

Fees

The fee for each option is below:

• Option A (photocopy of the divorce certificate) - $35.
• Option B (photocopy of the divorce decree & divorce separation agreement) - $65.
• Option C (certified copy) - $75.
• Option D - (certified copy plus divorce separation agreement) - $100.
• Option E (Exemplified Divorce Packets) - $150.

Through the Courts

You can also use the court system to obtain a copy by visiting the courthouse where your divorce was finalized and seeing the court clerk. The fee for obtaining a divorce certificate from the courts is $20, and you must fill out a request form.

Other Options

You can also use a service like VitalChek to obtain a copy of your divorce certificate.