Norfolk County Divorce Records
What Are Norfolk County Divorce Records?
Norfolk County divorce records are official legal documents maintained by the Massachusetts court system that document the dissolution of marriage within Norfolk County. Pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 208, these records constitute the formal documentation of divorce proceedings and final judgments. Divorce records in Norfolk County are created and maintained by the Norfolk Probate and Family Court as part of its judicial responsibilities.
These official records typically include:
- Divorce petitions or complaints
- Summons and service documentation
- Financial statements of both parties
- Child custody and support arrangements
- Property division agreements
- Temporary orders issued during proceedings
- Final judgment of divorce (divorce decree)
Divorce records serve multiple essential purposes for individuals and institutions:
- Legal proof of marital status change
- Documentation required for remarriage
- Evidence for name change processes
- Verification for Social Security benefits
- Supporting documentation for loan applications
- Required evidence for immigration matters
- Historical and genealogical research
The Massachusetts Probate and Family Court maintains these records in accordance with state regulations governing vital records and court documents. Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 46 § 19, divorce records are classified as vital records subject to specific access and maintenance requirements.
Are Norfolk County Divorce Records Public?
Norfolk County divorce records have a nuanced public access status that varies by document type and information sensitivity. The accessibility of these records is governed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 66 § 10, the state's public records law, as well as family court regulations.
Court divorce case files in Norfolk County are generally considered public records with important exceptions:
- Basic case information (parties' names, case numbers, filing dates) is publicly accessible
- Financial statements and sensitive personal information may be impounded or redacted
- Cases involving domestic violence may have restricted access
- Records containing information about minor children have heightened privacy protections
- Cases sealed by judicial order are not publicly accessible
Certified divorce certificates, which provide official verification of a divorce, have more restricted access:
- Available to the divorced parties themselves
- Accessible to attorneys representing the parties
- Available to individuals with demonstrable legitimate interest
- Accessible to those with court orders authorizing access
The Norfolk Probate and Family Court balances public access rights with privacy considerations in accordance with Massachusetts Rules of Domestic Relations Procedure. Certain sensitive information within divorce records may be redacted or restricted even when the case file itself is publicly accessible.
How To Find a Divorce Record In Norfolk County in 2026
Members of the public seeking divorce records in Norfolk County may utilize several established methods to locate these documents. The primary repository for divorce records is the Norfolk Probate and Family Court.
In-person requests can be submitted at:
Norfolk Probate and Family Court
35 Shawmut Road
Canton, MA 02021
781-830-1200
Norfolk Probate and Family Court
When requesting records in person:
- Complete the "Request for Copies" form available at the court
- Provide the names of both parties to the divorce
- Include the approximate date of divorce (year)
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay the required search and copy fees
Mail requests are processed when sent to the court address above and should include:
- A written request specifying the parties' names and divorce date
- A copy of the requester's identification
- A self-addressed stamped envelope
- Payment for applicable fees (check or money order)
Attorney requests may be submitted through:
- In-person court visits
- Mail correspondence
- Electronic filing system for attorneys registered with the Massachusetts court system
Search fees currently stand at $20 per record search, with additional charges for certified copies ($20) and plain copies ($1 per page). Payment methods include cash (in-person only), checks, and money orders made payable to "Norfolk Probate and Family Court."
Processing times vary based on request volume and complexity, typically ranging from 5-10 business days for standard requests.
How To Look Up Divorce Records in Norfolk County Online?
Norfolk County provides limited online access to divorce record information through the Massachusetts Trial Court's electronic systems. The digital accessibility of these records is governed by the Massachusetts Court System's Electronic Access Policy.
The primary online resource is the Massachusetts Trial Court's Electronic Case Access system:
- Visit the Massachusetts Trial Court Electronic Case Access
- Select "Probate and Family Court" from the court department options
- Choose "Norfolk County" from the court division dropdown
- Enter search criteria (names of parties, case number if known)
- Review the basic case information displayed (filing date, case type, status)
Important limitations of the online system include:
- Only basic case information is viewable (not full documents)
- Cases filed before 2000 may have limited or no online presence
- Impounded or sealed cases will not appear in search results
- Financial statements and sensitive documents are not available online
- Registration may be required for certain search functions
For comprehensive divorce record access, including full document review, individuals must still:
- Visit the Norfolk Probate and Family Court in person
- Submit written requests for certified copies
- Engage an attorney to access records through professional channels
The Massachusetts Registry of Vital Records and Statistics maintains an index of divorce records but does not provide online document access. This index can help confirm a divorce occurred but cannot substitute for official court records.
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Norfolk County?
Norfolk County residents seeking no-cost access to divorce records have limited but viable options. The availability of free record access is subject to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 66 § 10(a), which establishes the public's right to inspect certain government records without charge.
Free access methods include:
In-person inspection at the courthouse:
- Visit the Norfolk Probate and Family Court during public hours (8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday-Friday)
- Request to view specific case files using public access terminals
- Records can be reviewed without charge, though printing or copying incurs fees
- Photo identification is required for record inspection
- Some sensitive documents may not be available for public viewing
Law libraries with court record access:
- The Norfolk Law Library provides free access to certain court records
- Public terminals may offer limited case information search capabilities
- Staff cannot provide legal advice but can assist with navigating record systems
Online basic case information:
- Basic case information can be viewed without charge on the Massachusetts Trial Court's website
- Limited to case numbers, parties' names, filing dates, and general case status
- No document images or detailed information available without fees
It is important to note that while inspection may be free, obtaining copies or certified documents always incurs fees:
- Search fee: $20 per name/record
- Certified copies: $20 per document
- Photocopies: $1 per page
Individuals experiencing financial hardship may petition the court for fee waivers under certain circumstances by filing an Affidavit of Indigency, though approval is at the court's discretion.
What's Included in a Divorce Records In Norfolk County
Norfolk County divorce records comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the entire divorce proceeding from initiation to final judgment. The content of these records is prescribed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 208 and the Massachusetts Rules of Domestic Relations Procedure.
A complete divorce case file typically contains:
Initiating Documents:
- Complaint for Divorce or Joint Petition for Divorce
- Summons issued by the court
- Proof of service documentation
- Marriage certificate (copy)
Financial Disclosures:
- Financial statement (short form or long form)
- Statement of assets and liabilities
- Income verification (tax returns, pay stubs)
- Pension and retirement account information
Child-Related Documents (if applicable):
- Parenting plans
- Child support guidelines worksheets
- Custody determination documents
- Guardian ad litem reports (if ordered)
Procedural Documents:
- Motions filed by either party
- Temporary orders issued during proceedings
- Hearing notices and continuances
- Affidavits submitted by parties or witnesses
Settlement Documents:
- Separation agreement (if reached)
- Property division proposals or agreements
- Mediation results (if applicable)
Final Judgment Documents:
- Findings of fact
- Judgment of divorce nisi
- Judgment of divorce absolute
- Name change order (if applicable)
The certified divorce certificate, issued after the divorce becomes final, contains more limited information:
- Names of both parties
- Date of marriage
- Date of divorce judgment
- Docket number
- Court location
- Type of divorce granted
Access to specific documents within the case file may be restricted based on sensitivity and privacy considerations, particularly for financial statements and documents concerning minor children.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In Norfolk County?
Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Norfolk County must obtain a certified copy of their divorce decree or certificate. This documentation serves as legal verification of marital status change and is governed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 208 § 21.
To obtain certified proof of divorce, eligible requesters may:
Submit a request to the Norfolk Probate and Family Court:
Norfolk Probate and Family Court
35 Shawmut Road
Canton, MA 02021
781-830-1200
Norfolk Probate and Family Court
Required information for requests includes:
- Full names of both parties to the divorce (including maiden name if applicable)
- Date of divorce (approximate if exact date unknown)
- Docket number (if known)
- Requester's relationship to the case
- Purpose for requesting the record
- Contact information for response
Acceptable forms of identification for requests include:
- Government-issued photo ID
- Birth certificate plus secondary ID
- Passport
- Military ID
The current fee structure for divorce verification documents:
- Certified copy of divorce decree: $20.00
- Certificate of divorce (abstract): $20.00
- Search fee (if exact information not provided): $20.00
Processing timeframes typically range from:
- 5-7 business days for standard processing
- 2-3 business days for expedited service (additional fees apply)
- Same-day service may be available for emergency situations with proper documentation
For divorces finalized before 1952, requesters should contact the Massachusetts Archives, which maintains historical court records:
Massachusetts Archives
220 Morrissey Boulevard
Boston, MA 02125
617-727-2816
Massachusetts Archives
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Norfolk County?
Divorce proceedings in Norfolk County may be subject to confidentiality protections under specific circumstances. The confidentiality of divorce records is governed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 208 § 34D and related court rules.
Circumstances under which divorce records may be confidential include:
Impoundment of Records:
- Either party may file a motion to impound specific documents or the entire case file
- The court requires demonstration of good cause for impoundment
- Impoundment orders specify which documents are restricted and for what duration
- Financial statements are automatically impounded under Massachusetts Supplemental Probate Court Rule 401
Sealed Cases:
- In extraordinary circumstances, a judge may order an entire case sealed
- Requires compelling privacy interests that outweigh public access rights
- Domestic violence concerns may justify sealing proceedings
- Cases involving minors' sensitive information may warrant sealing
Confidential Information Protection:
- Personal identifying information (Social Security numbers, financial account numbers) is redacted from public documents
- Medical records introduced as evidence receive heightened privacy protection
- Psychological evaluations and treatment records may be confidential
- Guardian ad litem reports often contain confidential information about children
The procedure for requesting confidentiality includes:
- Filing a motion to impound with the Norfolk Probate and Family Court
- Submitting an affidavit explaining the specific need for confidentiality
- Attending a hearing where a judge evaluates the request
- If granted, receiving a court order specifying the scope of confidentiality
Even when records are impounded or sealed, certain parties maintain access rights:
- The divorced parties themselves
- Attorneys of record in the case
- Court personnel with legitimate need
- Individuals granted access by specific court order
The Massachusetts Trial Court's Uniform Rules on Impoundment Procedure provide detailed guidance on confidentiality processes.
How Long Does a Divorce Take In Norfolk County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in Norfolk County varies significantly based on multiple factors related to case complexity and the parties' cooperation level. Massachusetts divorce procedures are governed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 208 and the Massachusetts Rules of Domestic Relations Procedure.
Uncontested No-Fault Divorce (1A):
- Minimum timeframe: 120-150 days
- Filing to hearing: Typically 30-60 days
- Nisi period after hearing: 90 days (mandatory waiting period before divorce becomes absolute)
- Total average duration: 4-5 months
Contested No-Fault Divorce (1B):
- Minimum timeframe: 7-8 months
- Required separation period: 6 months
- Filing to pretrial conference: 2-4 months
- Pretrial to trial (if needed): 2-3 months
- Nisi period after judgment: 90 days
- Total average duration: 10-14 months
Contested Fault-Based Divorce:
- Typical range: 12-24 months
- Discovery period: 3-6 months
- Motion hearings: Variable timeframe
- Trial scheduling: 4-8 months from filing
- Post-trial briefing: 1-2 months
- Nisi period after judgment: 90 days
Factors that significantly influence timeframes include:
- Court congestion and calendar availability
- Complexity of asset division
- Child custody disputes
- Business valuation requirements
- Real estate appraisal needs
- Use of alternative dispute resolution
- Attorney scheduling conflicts
- Judicial assignments and reassignments
According to the Massachusetts Court System's statistical reports, the median time from filing to disposition for divorce cases in Norfolk County is approximately 9.2 months, though individual cases may vary substantially from this median.
The mandatory 90-day nisi period applies to all divorce types and cannot be waived except in extraordinary circumstances by special judicial order.
How Long Does Norfolk County Keep Divorce Records?
Norfolk County maintains divorce records according to a structured retention schedule established under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 66 § 8 and the Massachusetts Judicial Records Retention Schedule. These retention policies ensure the preservation of important legal documents while managing storage resources.
The retention periods for divorce records in Norfolk County are as follows:
Permanent Retention:
- Final judgment of divorce (divorce decree)
- Findings of fact and conclusions of law
- Separation agreements incorporated into judgments
- Child custody determinations
- Property division judgments
- Name change orders within divorce judgments
Extended Retention (30+ years):
- Case indices and docket books
- Financial statements and asset disclosures
- Child support orders and modifications
- Alimony determinations
Medium-Term Retention (10-20 years):
- Temporary orders
- Guardian ad litem reports
- Custody evaluation reports
- Mediation agreements not incorporated into final judgments
Shorter-Term Retention (3-7 years):
- Routine motions and notices
- Scheduling documents
- Service of process returns
- Correspondence with the court
The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Records Management Policies govern the specific implementation of these retention schedules. After the designated retention period expires, non-permanent records may be destroyed according to approved procedures.
Historical divorce records (generally pre-1950) may be transferred to the:
Massachusetts Archives
220 Morrissey Boulevard
Boston, MA 02125
617-727-2816
Massachusetts Archives
Digital preservation initiatives are gradually converting older paper records to electronic format, though this process remains ongoing. The electronic case management system now maintains permanent digital copies of all divorce judgments issued since approximately 2000.
How To Get a Divorce In Norfolk County
Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Norfolk County must follow procedures established under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 208. The divorce process varies based on the type of divorce pursued and the level of agreement between parties.
Eligibility Requirements:
- At least one spouse must have been a Massachusetts resident for one year, OR
- The cause for divorce occurred in Massachusetts and at least one spouse resides in the state
- Filing must occur in the county where the parties last lived together, or where either currently resides
Types of Divorce Available:
-
No-Fault Joint Petition (1A):
- Both parties agree the marriage is irretrievably broken
- Requires a complete written separation agreement
- Filed at Norfolk Probate and Family Court with both parties signing
-
No-Fault Individual Petition (1B):
- One party files claiming irretrievable breakdown
- No agreement required at filing
- Requires service of process on the other spouse
-
Fault-Based Divorce:
- Filed citing specific grounds (adultery, desertion, cruel treatment, etc.)
- Requires evidence proving the alleged fault
- Less common than no-fault options
Filing Location:
Norfolk Probate and Family Court
35 Shawmut Road
Canton, MA 02021
781-830-1200
Norfolk Probate and Family Court
Required Documents:
- Divorce petition/complaint
- Certified copy of marriage certificate
- Financial statement (short or long form)
- Child support guidelines worksheet (if children involved)
- Affidavit of care and custody (if children involved)
- Certificate of absolute divorce form
Filing Fees:
- Joint Petition (1A): $215
- Individual Complaint (1B or fault): $215
- Summons: $15
- Fee waiver available for qualifying low-income individuals
After filing, the process includes:
- Service of process (if contested)
- Financial disclosure exchange
- Temporary orders hearing (if requested)
- Discovery period (contested cases)
- Pretrial conference
- Trial (if settlement not reached)
- Judgment of divorce nisi
- 90-day waiting period
- Judgment of divorce absolute
The Massachusetts Court System provides forms and detailed instructions for self-represented litigants. Free legal assistance may be available through the Norfolk County Bar Association for qualifying individuals.
How To Get Divorce Papers In Norfolk County
Individuals seeking divorce papers in Norfolk County have multiple options for obtaining the necessary documentation to initiate or respond to divorce proceedings. The availability of these documents is governed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 208 and court administrative policies.
Sources for obtaining divorce papers:
Norfolk Probate and Family Court:
Norfolk Probate and Family Court
35 Shawmut Road
Canton, MA 02021
781-830-1200
Norfolk Probate and Family Court
- Visit the Register of Probate's office during business hours (8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday-Friday)
- Request divorce packet for either joint (1A) or individual (1B) filing
- Court staff can provide forms but cannot offer legal advice
- No appointment necessary for form pickup
Massachusetts Court System Website:
- Visit the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court forms page
- Download and print divorce forms at no cost
- Available forms include:
- Complaint for Divorce
- Joint Petition for Divorce
- Financial Statement (short and long forms)
- Affidavit of Indigency (fee waiver)
- Child Support Guidelines Worksheet
- Certificate of Absolute Divorce
MassLegalHelp Website:
- The MassLegalHelp divorce section provides:
- Downloadable forms with completion instructions
- Explanations of the divorce process
- Checklists for required documentation
- Information in multiple languages
Norfolk Law Library:
Norfolk Law Library
35 Shawmut Road
Canton, MA 02021
781-830-1230
Norfolk Law Library
- Access to all required divorce forms
- Reference materials explaining divorce procedures
- Public computers for downloading and printing forms
- Staff assistance with locating appropriate documents
Legal Assistance Organizations:
- MetroWest Legal Services provides form assistance to qualifying low-income individuals
- Norfolk County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service can connect individuals with attorneys offering consultation
- Court Service Centers provide assistance with form completion
When obtaining divorce papers, individuals should verify they have the current version of all required forms, as requirements and form versions change periodically. Most forms are available in fillable PDF format for electronic completion before printing.