Broome County Divorce Records
What Are Broome County Divorce Records?
Divorce records in Broome County are official legal documents that provide documented evidence of the dissolution of a marriage within the county's jurisdiction. These records are maintained pursuant to New York Domestic Relations Law § 236, which governs matrimonial actions including divorce proceedings. Divorce records serve as the official documentation that a marriage has been legally terminated through court proceedings.
The records typically consist of several components:
- Divorce decree (judgment of divorce)
- Settlement agreements
- Court orders regarding property division
- Child custody and support arrangements
- Financial disclosure statements
- Name change authorizations
Divorce records in Broome County are maintained by the Broome County Clerk's Office, which serves as the official repository for these legal documents. These records are utilized for numerous important purposes, including:
- Legal proof of marital status change
- Documentation for remarriage
- Evidence for name change processes
- Verification for Social Security benefits
- Supporting documentation for loan applications
- Required evidence for immigration matters
- Proof for insurance and pension benefits
The New York State Unified Court System oversees the judicial process for divorces throughout the state, including those filed in Broome County.
Are Broome County Divorce Records Public?
Broome County divorce records have a nuanced public access status governed by New York Public Officers Law § 87, which establishes the framework for public access to government records. The accessibility of divorce records follows a two-tier system:
Court Divorce Case Files: Court divorce case files are generally considered public records and may be accessed by members of the public with certain limitations. However, specific components of these files may be sealed or redacted to protect:
- Personal identifying information
- Financial data
- Information pertaining to minor children
- Allegations of domestic violence
- Health and medical information
- Social Security numbers
Certified Divorce Certificates: Access to certified divorce certificates is more restricted. Pursuant to New York Public Health Law § 4174, only the following individuals may obtain certified copies of divorce certificates:
- Parties to the divorce
- Attorneys representing either party (with proper authorization)
- Individuals with a New York State Court Order
- Individuals with a properly executed Power of Attorney from one of the parties
The Broome County Clerk's Office is responsible for maintaining and providing access to divorce records in accordance with these state laws. As noted on the Broome County Clerk's divorce records page, individuals who are not parties to the divorce action must file a Motion requesting a Supreme Court Order to authorize the release of these records.
How To Find a Divorce Record In Broome County in 2026
Members of the public seeking divorce records in Broome County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The process varies depending on the requester's relationship to the case and the specific records needed.
For Parties to the Divorce:
- Visit the Broome County Clerk's Office in person:
Broome County Clerk's Office
Broome County Office Building
60 Hawley Street, 2nd Floor
Binghamton, NY 13901
(607) 778-2451
Broome County Clerk
-
Complete a records request form, providing:
- Full names of both parties (including maiden name if applicable)
- Date of divorce
- Index number (if known)
- Valid government-issued photo identification
-
Pay the applicable fee:
- Certified copies: $10.00 per document
- Uncertified copies: $0.65 per page
-
Submit a written request by mail including:
- Completed request form
- Copy of valid identification
- Check or money order for applicable fees
- Self-addressed stamped envelope
For Non-Parties Seeking Records: Individuals who are not parties to the divorce must obtain a court order before accessing records. The process involves:
- File a motion with the Broome County Supreme Court:
Broome County Supreme Court
Broome County Courthouse
92 Court Street
Binghamton, NY 13901
(607) 240-5800
New York State Unified Court System
- Present the court order to the County Clerk's Office
- Complete the standard records request process
- Pay applicable fees
Attorneys representing parties may access records with proper authorization documentation on file.
How To Look Up Divorce Records in Broome County Online?
Broome County offers limited online access to divorce record information. The digital availability of these records is restricted due to privacy considerations and New York Judiciary Law § 255, which governs court records access. Currently, the following online options are available:
New York State Electronic Filing System (NYSCEF):
- Visit the NYSCEF website
- Create a user account or log in to an existing account
- Select "Search" from the main menu
- Enter the index number or party names
- Access publicly available documents (note that access may be limited based on user status)
This system primarily contains cases filed electronically after the system's implementation and may not include older divorce records.
WebCivil Supreme:
- Access the WebCivil Supreme portal
- Select "Broome County" from the county dropdown
- Search by index number, party name, attorney, or judge
- Review basic case information (note that full documents are not available through this system)
This database provides case information including filing dates, appearances, motions, and decisions but does not contain the actual divorce documents.
For comprehensive divorce records, including judgments and supporting documents, individuals must still contact the Broome County Clerk's Office directly or visit in person. Online systems primarily serve as case tracking tools rather than complete document repositories.
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Broome County?
While obtaining certified copies of divorce records in Broome County typically involves fees, several options exist for accessing basic divorce record information at no cost:
In-Person Inspection: Pursuant to New York Public Officers Law § 89, members of the public may inspect publicly available divorce records at no charge during regular business hours:
- Visit the Broome County Clerk's Office:
Broome County Clerk's Office
Broome County Office Building
60 Hawley Street, 2nd Floor
Binghamton, NY 13901
(607) 778-2451
Broome County Clerk
- Request to inspect specific divorce records (index number helpful)
- Present valid identification
- Review available public documents on-site
Note that while inspection is free, any copies requested will incur standard fees.
Public Access Law Library: The Supreme Court Law Library provides public access to legal resources:
Broome County Supreme Court Law Library
Broome County Courthouse
92 Court Street
Binghamton, NY 13901
(607) 240-5830
New York State Court Libraries
Library resources include:
- Public access terminals for case searches
- Legal reference materials
- Assistance from law librarians
WebCivil Supreme: Basic case information is available at no cost through:
- WebCivil Supreme
- Select Broome County
- Search by party name or index number
This service provides case status, appearance dates, and basic procedural information but not actual documents.
It is important to note that while basic information may be accessed without charge, comprehensive divorce records, particularly for parties not involved in the case, generally require both court authorization and payment of applicable fees.
What's Included in a Divorce Records In Broome County
Divorce records in Broome County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the legal dissolution of a marriage. These records typically contain several distinct components, each serving specific legal purposes:
Judgment of Divorce: The official court order that legally terminates the marriage, signed by a Supreme Court Justice. This document includes:
- Names of both parties
- Date of marriage
- Date of divorce finalization
- Grounds for divorce
- Court's jurisdiction statement
- Judge's signature
Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law: A detailed document outlining:
- Factual determinations made by the court
- Legal reasoning supporting the divorce judgment
- Jurisdictional basis for the court's authority
- Specific findings regarding grounds for divorce
Settlement Agreement/Stipulation of Settlement: A comprehensive document detailing the parties' agreement on:
- Division of marital property and debts
- Spousal maintenance arrangements
- Child custody and visitation schedules
- Child support calculations and payment terms
- Insurance coverage provisions
- Tax filing arrangements
Financial Disclosure Statements: Sworn statements from both parties detailing:
- Income from all sources
- Assets (real property, vehicles, accounts, investments)
- Liabilities and outstanding debts
- Monthly expenses and financial obligations
Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs): Court orders specifically addressing:
- Division of retirement accounts
- Pension benefits allocation
- Procedures for distribution of retirement assets
Name Change Authorization: Documentation permitting either party to resume use of a pre-marriage surname or adopt a new surname.
Child Support Worksheets: Calculations showing:
- Income of both parents
- Basic child support obligations
- Pro-rata shares of support
- Additional expenses (healthcare, education, childcare)
Parenting Plans: Detailed arrangements for:
- Physical custody schedules
- Decision-making authority
- Holiday and vacation schedules
- Communication protocols between parents
These documents collectively form the official record of a divorce proceeding in Broome County and are maintained by the County Clerk's Office in accordance with state record retention requirements.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In Broome County?
Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Broome County have several options for obtaining this documentation. The appropriate method depends on the specific type of proof needed and its intended use.
Certified Copy of Divorce Decree: For the most comprehensive and legally recognized proof of divorce:
- Visit or contact the Broome County Clerk's Office:
Broome County Clerk's Office
Broome County Office Building
60 Hawley Street, 2nd Floor
Binghamton, NY 13901
(607) 778-2451
Broome County Clerk
- Complete a divorce records request form
- Provide required identification:
- Government-issued photo ID
- Documentation proving eligibility to receive records
- Pay the $10.00 fee per certified copy
- Receive certified copy with official seal and signature
Certificate of Dissolution: For a more concise document confirming divorce status:
- Contact the New York State Department of Health:
New York State Department of Health
Vital Records Section
P.O. Box 2602
Albany, NY 12220-2602
(855) 322-1022
New York State Department of Health
- Complete the divorce certificate application
- Provide identification and eligibility documentation
- Pay the required fee ($30.00 per certificate)
- Allow 2-4 weeks for processing by mail
Court Certification Letter: For verification of divorce status without full decree details:
- Submit a written request to the Broome County Supreme Court:
Broome County Supreme Court
Broome County Courthouse
92 Court Street
Binghamton, NY 13901
(607) 240-5800
New York State Unified Court System
- Include case information (names, approximate date, index number if known)
- Pay applicable administrative fees
- Receive court certification letter confirming divorce status
For international use, documents may require additional authentication through apostille or certification processes available through the New York Department of State.
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Broome County?
While divorce proceedings in Broome County are generally matters of public record, certain mechanisms exist under New York law to protect sensitive information and, in limited circumstances, maintain confidentiality of divorce records. These protections are governed by New York Domestic Relations Law § 235, which addresses the privacy of matrimonial actions.
Sealing of Records: Parties may petition the court to seal divorce records partially or entirely when:
- Disclosure would pose risk to personal safety
- Records contain sensitive financial information
- Children's interests require protection
- Allegations involve domestic violence
- Medical or mental health information is included
- Trade secrets or proprietary business information is present
The court applies a balancing test weighing privacy interests against the presumption of public access to court records.
Redaction of Sensitive Information: Even when records remain public, certain information is routinely redacted:
- Social Security numbers
- Financial account numbers
- Names of minor children
- Dates of birth
- Home addresses in cases involving safety concerns
Anonymous Captions: In exceptional circumstances, the court may permit:
- Use of initials instead of full names
- Anonymous captions (e.g., "Anonymous v. Anonymous")
- Reference numbers in place of names
This measure is rarely granted and requires demonstration of compelling privacy interests or potential harm from disclosure.
Confidential Alternative Dispute Resolution: Parties may utilize:
- Mediation
- Collaborative divorce
- Private settlement negotiations
While the final judgment remains a public record, these processes can minimize the amount of sensitive information entered into the court record.
It is important to note that complete confidentiality of divorce proceedings is extremely rare in Broome County. The court presumes public access to judicial records, and parties seeking confidentiality bear the burden of demonstrating specific, substantial reasons why standard public access should be limited.
How Long Does a Divorce Take In Broome County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in Broome County varies significantly based on several key factors. The timeline for divorce completion is influenced by case complexity, level of agreement between parties, court caseload, and procedural requirements.
Uncontested Divorces: When both parties agree on all issues, the process typically takes:
- 3-6 months from filing to finalization
Key factors affecting uncontested divorce timelines:
- Completeness of initial paperwork
- Court processing times for document review
- Judicial availability for signature
- Statutory waiting periods
According to the Broome County Clerk's uncontested divorce FAQs, parties should be aware that even with agreement, the process involves multiple steps and document submissions.
Contested Divorces: When parties disagree on substantive issues, timeframes extend considerably:
- 9-18 months for moderately contested cases
- 18-36 months for highly contested or complex cases
Factors extending contested divorce timelines:
- Preliminary conference scheduling (typically 45-60 days after filing)
- Discovery process (3-6 months)
- Motion practice and judicial decisions
- Expert evaluations for custody or financial matters
- Trial scheduling based on court calendar
- Post-trial submission periods
Simplified Divorce Proceedings: For marriages meeting specific criteria (short duration, no children, limited assets):
- 2-4 months with proper documentation
Mandatory Waiting Periods: New York State imposes certain procedural timeframes:
- 40-day waiting period after filing before judgment can be entered
- Additional time for service of process requirements
The New York State Unified Court System reports that approximately 13% of divorces statewide are resolved within 6 months, 67% within 12 months, and 20% require more than 12 months to complete.
Parties seeking expedited processing should consider:
- Ensuring complete and accurate initial filings
- Responding promptly to court notices
- Utilizing alternative dispute resolution when appropriate
- Maintaining open communication with legal counsel
How Long Does Broome County Keep Divorce Records?
Broome County maintains divorce records according to a structured retention schedule established under New York Arts and Cultural Affairs Law § 57.25 and implemented through the New York State Archives' Records Retention and Disposition Schedule. This schedule ensures the preservation of these important legal documents while balancing administrative needs and historical value.
Permanent Retention: The following divorce record components are maintained permanently:
- Judgment of Divorce
- Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law
- Divorce Decree
- Index Books and Docket Entries
- Matrimonial Case Files with historical significance
These permanent records are initially maintained in paper format and may eventually be transferred to microfilm or digital formats for preservation while maintaining their legal validity.
Extended Retention Periods: Certain supporting documents are retained for extended but not permanent periods:
- Financial disclosure statements: 25 years after case closure
- Temporary orders: 25 years after case closure
- Guardian ad litem reports: 25 years after case closure
- Expert witness reports: 25 years after case closure
Standard Retention Periods: Routine administrative documents follow standard retention schedules:
- Correspondence: 6 years after case closure
- Notices and scheduling documents: 6 years after case closure
- Proof of service documents: 6 years after case closure
- Preliminary conference memoranda: 6 years after case closure
Historical Records: Divorce records predating 1950 may be transferred to:
Broome County Historical Society
185 Court Street
Binghamton, NY 13901
(607) 778-3572
Broome County Historical Society
For research purposes, these historical records remain accessible to the public subject to standard access restrictions.
The New York State Archives provides comprehensive guidance on records retention schedules applicable to court records throughout the state, including those maintained by the Broome County Clerk's Office.
How To Get a Divorce In Broome County
Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Broome County must follow specific procedures established under New York Domestic Relations Law. The process varies depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested.
Residency Requirements: Before filing, at least one of these residency conditions must be met:
- Either spouse has resided in New York continuously for at least 2 years before filing
- Either spouse has resided in New York continuously for at least 1 year, AND:
- The marriage ceremony was performed in New York, OR
- The couple lived in New York as married persons, OR
- The grounds for divorce occurred in New York
- Both spouses are New York residents at the time of filing AND the grounds for divorce occurred in New York
Uncontested Divorce Process:
- Prepare and file divorce papers with the Broome County Supreme Court:
Broome County Supreme Court
Broome County Courthouse
92 Court Street
Binghamton, NY 13901
(607) 240-5800
New York State Unified Court System
-
Required documents include:
- Summons with Notice or Summons and Complaint
- Notice of Automatic Orders
- Notice Concerning Continuation of Health Care Coverage
- Settlement agreement (if applicable)
- Child support worksheets (if children involved)
-
Serve papers on the spouse according to legal requirements
-
File proof of service with the court
-
Complete and file remaining paperwork:
- Affidavit of Defendant (if spouse agrees)
- Affidavit of Plaintiff
- Note of Issue
- Findings of Fact/Conclusions of Law
- Judgment of Divorce
- Part 130 Certification
- Certificate of Dissolution
Contested Divorce Process:
- File and serve initial divorce papers
- Attend preliminary conference to establish schedule
- Complete financial disclosure process
- Participate in court-ordered mediation (if applicable)
- Engage in settlement negotiations
- If no settlement, prepare for and attend trial
- Receive judicial decision
- Submit final judgment paperwork
Legal Assistance Resources: For those unable to afford private counsel:
Legal Aid Society of Mid-New York
168 Water Street, 2nd Floor
Binghamton, NY 13901
(877) 777-6152
Legal Aid Society of Mid-New York
DIY Forms: The New York State Courts website provides DIY (Do-It-Yourself) forms for uncontested divorces without children.
How To Get Divorce Papers In Broome County
Individuals initiating divorce proceedings in Broome County have several options for obtaining the necessary legal forms. The appropriate method depends on the complexity of the case and whether legal representation is involved.
From the New York State Courts Website: The most accessible source for standardized divorce forms:
- Visit the New York State Unified Court System website
- Navigate to the Divorce/Separation section
- Select the appropriate forms package:
- Uncontested divorce with children
- Uncontested divorce without children
- Contested divorce forms
- Download and print the complete forms package
- Review the step-by-step instructions included with forms
From the Broome County Supreme Court: For in-person assistance and form acquisition:
Broome County Supreme Court
Broome County Courthouse
92 Court Street
Binghamton, NY 13901
(607) 240-5800
New York State Unified Court System
Court services include:
- Self-help resources
- Form packets for various divorce situations
- Procedural information
- Filing fee schedules
Note: Court staff cannot provide legal advice but can offer procedural guidance.
From Legal Service Providers: For those qualifying for assistance:
Legal Aid Society of Mid-New York
168 Water Street, 2nd Floor
Binghamton, NY 13901
(877) 777-6152
Legal Aid Society of Mid-New York
Services may include:
- Form preparation assistance
- Review of completed documents
- Procedural guidance
- Limited representation
From Private Attorneys: For personalized legal forms and representation:
Broome County Bar Association
P.O. Box 1766
Binghamton, NY 13902
(607) 723-6331
Broome County Bar Association
The Bar Association can provide referrals to attorneys specializing in matrimonial law.
As noted on the Broome County Clerk's uncontested divorce FAQs page, the Clerk's Office does not provide printed divorce packets for customer use. Individuals are directed to obtain forms from the sources listed above.
Once forms are obtained, they must be properly completed, notarized where required, and filed with the Broome County Clerk's Office along with applicable filing fees.
Lookup Divorce Records in Broome County
Divorce Records | Broome County