Bergen County Divorce Records
What Are Bergen County Divorce Records?
Bergen County divorce records are official legal documents maintained by the New Jersey court system that document the dissolution of marriage within Bergen County. These records are governed by the New Jersey Statutes § 2A:34-1, which establishes the legal framework for divorce proceedings in the state. Divorce records typically consist of multiple documents filed throughout the divorce process, from the initial complaint through the final judgment.
Divorce records in Bergen County serve several important functions:
- 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 Superior Court of New Jersey, Family Division in Bergen County is the primary custodian of divorce records filed within the county. These records document the legal termination of a marriage and contain information about property division, child custody arrangements, spousal support, and other court-ordered provisions.
Are Bergen County Divorce Records Public?
Bergen County divorce records have a complex public access status that varies by document type and information sensitivity. Pursuant to the New Jersey Open Public Records Act (OPRA), certain divorce records are accessible to the public, while others remain restricted.
The public accessibility of divorce records in Bergen County is governed by the following guidelines:
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Court Case Files: Basic case information such as party names, case numbers, and filing dates are generally available to the public through the New Jersey Courts' public access system.
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Divorce Decrees/Judgments: Final divorce judgments are considered public records, though access may be limited to in-person requests at the courthouse.
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Financial Disclosures: Documents containing detailed financial information are typically not available to the general public.
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Child-Related Documents: Records pertaining to child custody, support, and welfare are often restricted to protect minors' privacy.
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Sealed Records: In cases involving domestic violence, abuse allegations, or other sensitive matters, the court may seal records under N.J. Court Rule 1:38-11.
It is important to note that while certain divorce records may be publicly accessible, certified copies of divorce decrees are generally only available to the parties involved in the divorce, their attorneys of record, or individuals with a court order authorizing access.
How To Find a Divorce Record In Bergen County in 2026
Members of the public seeking divorce records in Bergen County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The Superior Court of New Jersey, Family Division in Bergen County maintains these records and provides access through established procedures.
To find a divorce record in Bergen County, individuals may follow these steps:
- Visit the Bergen County Justice Center in person:
Bergen County Justice Center
10 Main Street
Hackensack, NJ 07601
201-221-0700
New Jersey Courts
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Submit a Records Request Form: Complete the New Jersey Judiciary Records Request Form with the following information:
- Full names of both parties
- Date of divorce (approximate if unknown)
- Docket number (if known)
- Requestor's contact information
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Provide Identification: Present valid government-issued photo identification when requesting records in person.
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Pay Applicable Fees: The current fee structure includes:
- $10 for a record search
- $5 per page for copies of documents
- $25 for certified copies of final judgments
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Submit Request by Mail: Alternatively, mail the completed records request form to:
Superior Court of New Jersey, Records Center
P.O. Box 967
Trenton, NJ 08625-0967
609-421-6100
New Jersey Courts
Processing times typically range from 5-15 business days depending on the age and complexity of the record requested.
How To Look Up Divorce Records in Bergen County Online?
Bergen County residents and authorized individuals may access certain divorce record information through online platforms maintained by the New Jersey Judiciary. The online access options are subject to specific limitations and user registration requirements.
To look up divorce records online in Bergen County:
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Access the New Jersey Courts Public Access System: Visit the New Jersey Courts Case Search portal to search for basic case information.
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Register for an Account: First-time users must create an account with the New Jersey Courts Electronic Filing and Information System (JEFIS).
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Conduct a Name-Based Search: Enter the name of either party to the divorce proceeding. The system allows searches by:
- Last name, first name
- Case type (select "FM" for divorce/family matters)
- County (select "Bergen")
- Approximate date range (if known)
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Review Available Information: The online system provides limited information including:
- Case number/docket number
- Filing date
- Case status (pending, dismissed, or judgment entered)
- Party names
- Attorney information (if represented)
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Request Additional Documents: For complete case files or certified copies, users must submit formal requests through the methods outlined in the previous section.
It is important to note that pursuant to N.J. Court Rule 1:38, certain sensitive information and documents within divorce files are not available through the online portal and require in-person requests with proper identification and authorization.
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Bergen County?
Members of the public seeking to access divorce records in Bergen County without incurring fees have limited options available. While most official copies and certified documents require payment of statutory fees, certain basic information may be obtained at no cost.
Free access options for divorce records in Bergen County include:
- Public Access Terminals: The Bergen County Justice Center provides public access computer terminals where visitors may search basic case information at no charge:
Bergen County Justice Center
10 Main Street
Hackensack, NJ 07601
201-221-0700
New Jersey Courts
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
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Online Case Search: Basic case information is available through the New Jersey Courts public access portal without fees. This includes:
- Confirmation of divorce filing
- Case status
- Docket number
- Filing date
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Public Records Assistance: The Bergen County Law Library offers assistance with public records research:
Bergen County Law Library
10 Main Street, 2nd Floor
Hackensack, NJ 07601
201-221-0700 ext. 25103
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Self-Help Resource Center: The Family Division's Self-Help Resource Center provides guidance on locating and understanding divorce records:
Bergen County Family Division
10 Main Street, 2nd Floor
Hackensack, NJ 07601
201-221-0700 ext. 25103
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
While basic information may be accessed without cost, fees will apply for copies of documents, certified records, and comprehensive searches of older records pursuant to N.J.S.A. 22A:2-29.
What's Included in a Divorce Records In Bergen County
Divorce records in Bergen County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the entire legal process of marriage dissolution. These records are maintained by the Superior Court of New Jersey, Family Division and contain specific information as required by state law.
A complete divorce record file typically includes:
- Complaint for Divorce: The initial filing that states the grounds for divorce and requested relief
- Summons: Official notice to the responding spouse about the divorce action
- Answer/Counterclaim: The responding spouse's formal reply to the complaint
- Case Information Statement (CIS): Detailed financial disclosures from both parties
- Property Settlement Agreement: Document outlining the division of marital assets and debts
- Child Custody and Support Provisions: Arrangements for minor children, if applicable
- Judgment of Divorce: The final court order terminating the marriage
- Name Change Order: If either party is resuming a previous name
- Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs): For division of retirement accounts
- Domestic Violence Restraining Orders: If applicable to the case
The final judgment of divorce, also known as the divorce decree, contains the following key information:
- Full legal names of both parties
- Date and location of marriage
- Date of separation
- Grounds for divorce
- Child custody determinations
- Child support obligations
- Spousal support/alimony provisions
- Property division terms
- Debt allocation
- Name restoration (if applicable)
- Judge's signature and court seal
These records are maintained in accordance with N.J.S.A. 2A:34-1 et seq. and serve as the official legal documentation of the marriage dissolution.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In Bergen County?
Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Bergen County must obtain a certified copy of their divorce decree from the appropriate government authority. This document serves as legal verification of marital status change and is commonly needed for various administrative purposes.
To obtain proof of divorce in Bergen County:
- Request from the Superior Court Records Center: The primary method for obtaining certified divorce decrees is through the New Jersey Superior Court Records Center:
Superior Court of New Jersey Records Center
P.O. Box 967
Trenton, NJ 08625-0967
609-421-6100
New Jersey Courts
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Complete the Required Form: Submit the Records Request Form with the following information:
- Full names of both parties (including maiden name if applicable)
- Date of divorce (month and year at minimum)
- County where divorce was granted (Bergen)
- Docket number (if known)
- Requestor's relationship to the case
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Provide Identification: Include a copy of valid government-issued photo identification.
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Submit Payment: The current fee for a certified copy of a divorce decree is $25.00, payable by check or money order to "Treasurer, State of New Jersey."
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Alternative Request Method: For divorces finalized after 2000, parties to the case may also request proof through the New Jersey Department of Health.
It is important to note that pursuant to N.J.S.A. 2A:82-17, certified copies of divorce decrees are generally only available to:
- Parties named in the decree
- Legal representatives with written authorization
- Individuals with a court order authorizing access
- Government agencies for official purposes
Processing time is typically 10-15 business days for standard requests.
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Bergen County?
Under certain circumstances, divorce proceedings and associated records in Bergen County may be granted confidential status. The New Jersey court system provides mechanisms for protecting sensitive information in divorce cases while balancing the public's right to access court records.
Confidentiality options in Bergen County divorce cases include:
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Sealing Records: Pursuant to N.J. Court Rule 1:38-11, a judge may order divorce records sealed when:
- Disclosure would pose a serious risk to personal safety
- The case involves domestic violence
- Children's welfare could be compromised
- Trade secrets or proprietary business information requires protection
- National security concerns exist
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Redaction of Sensitive Information: Even in public divorce files, certain information is automatically redacted, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Financial account numbers
- Minor children's names and birthdates
- Medical information
- Victim identification in abuse cases
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Motion for Confidentiality: Either party may file a formal motion requesting confidentiality, which must demonstrate:
- Specific harm that would result from disclosure
- Why the harm outweighs the public interest in access
- The narrowest possible scope of confidentiality needed
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Alternative Dispute Resolution: Couples seeking maximum privacy may utilize:
- Private mediation
- Collaborative divorce processes
- Arbitration
It is important to note that even when records are sealed, basic case information (names of parties, docket number, and general case type) typically remains in the public index unless extraordinary circumstances warrant complete anonymity under N.J.S.A. 2A:34-12.1.
How Long Does a Divorce Take In Bergen County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in Bergen County varies significantly based on multiple factors, including case complexity, level of agreement between parties, court caseload, and procedural requirements established by New Jersey law.
Timeframes for divorce completion in Bergen County typically fall within these ranges:
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Uncontested Divorces: When both parties agree on all issues, the process may be completed in approximately 3-6 months from filing to final judgment. This timeline includes:
- 35-day minimum waiting period after service of complaint
- Document preparation and filing (2-4 weeks)
- Court scheduling (4-8 weeks)
- Final hearing and judgment entry (1 day)
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Contested Divorces: When disputes exist regarding property, support, or custody, the timeline extends to approximately 8-18 months, involving:
- Discovery period (3-6 months)
- Motion practice (varies)
- Early Settlement Panel (mandatory in Bergen County)
- Economic mediation (if ordered)
- Trial preparation (2-3 months)
- Trial (1 day to several weeks)
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High-Conflict/Complex Cases: Divorces involving substantial assets, business valuations, or intense custody disputes may take 18-36 months to resolve completely.
According to the New Jersey Courts Administrative Office, the current average time to disposition for contested divorce cases in Bergen County is approximately 10 months from filing to judgment.
Factors that may extend the divorce timeline include:
- Court congestion and judicial availability
- Discovery disputes requiring court intervention
- Expert witness involvement (business valuations, custody evaluations)
- Post-judgment motion practice
- Appeals of trial court decisions
The New Jersey Judiciary has implemented case management standards under N.J. Court Rule 5:1-4 that establish timeframe goals for family cases, though individual case complexity may necessitate extensions.
How Long Does Bergen County Keep Divorce Records?
Bergen County divorce records are subject to specific retention schedules established by the New Jersey Judiciary Records Management program. These schedules determine how long different types of divorce documents are maintained and in what format they are preserved.
The retention periods for divorce records in Bergen County are as follows:
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Active Case Files: Complete divorce case files are maintained at the Bergen County courthouse for approximately 10 years following the entry of final judgment.
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Archived Records: After the active retention period, files are transferred to the New Jersey Superior Court Records Center in Trenton, where they are maintained according to the following schedule:
- Final Judgments of Divorce: Permanent retention
- Case Docket Information: Permanent retention
- Supporting Documentation: 75 years from case filing date
- Financial Disclosures: 15 years from judgment date
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Microfilmed/Digitized Records: Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 2A:6-69, older divorce records may be:
- Converted to microfilm or digital format
- Original paper documents may be destroyed after conversion
- Converted records maintain the same legal status as originals
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Historical Records: Divorce records dating prior to 1948 (when the current court system was established) may be:
- Transferred to the New Jersey State Archives
- Accessible through different procedures than more recent records
- Subject to special handling requirements
The New Jersey Administrative Office of the Courts maintains these records in accordance with the Records Management Standards for the New Jersey Judiciary, which establishes uniform retention periods for all court records throughout the state.
How To Get a Divorce In Bergen County
Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Bergen County must follow specific procedures established by the New Jersey court system. The divorce process involves multiple steps and varies depending on the circumstances of the marriage and level of agreement between parties.
To initiate a divorce in Bergen County:
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Establish Residency: At least one spouse must have been a New Jersey resident for a minimum of 12 months prior to filing, except in cases of adultery where no residency period is required.
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Determine Grounds: New Jersey permits both no-fault and fault-based divorces:
- No-fault: Irreconcilable differences for 6+ months or 18+ months separation
- Fault-based: Adultery, desertion, extreme cruelty, addiction, imprisonment, institutionalization, or deviant sexual conduct
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Prepare and File Documents: Submit the following to the Family Division:
Bergen County Superior Court, Family Division
Justice Center, 10 Main Street
Hackensack, NJ 07601
201-221-0700
New Jersey Courts
Required documents include:
- Complaint for Divorce
- Confidential Litigant Information Sheet
- Certification of Insurance
- Certification of Notification of Complementary Dispute Resolution
- Filing fee (currently $300, with additional fees for counterclaims)
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Serve Documents: The non-filing spouse must be formally served with the divorce complaint through:
- Personal service by authorized individual
- Acceptance of service
- Sheriff's service
- Publication (if location unknown)
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Case Management: After filing, the court will:
- Assign a docket number
- Schedule a case management conference
- Issue a case management order with deadlines
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Discovery: Exchange of financial information and other relevant evidence.
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Mandatory Economic Mediation: For cases with financial disputes.
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Early Settlement Panel: Mandatory settlement conference with experienced attorneys.
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Intensive Settlement Conference: Additional court-supervised negotiation opportunity.
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Trial: If settlement is not reached, the case proceeds to trial before a Family Division judge.
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Judgment: Upon resolution of all issues, a Final Judgment of Divorce is entered.
The process is governed by N.J.S.A. 2A:34-2 and the New Jersey Court Rules.
How To Get Divorce Papers In Bergen County
Individuals initiating or responding to divorce proceedings in Bergen County must obtain the appropriate legal forms to properly file and process their case. Multiple resources exist for accessing these documents.
To obtain divorce papers in Bergen County:
- Visit the Family Division Self-Help Center:
Bergen County Family Division
Justice Center, 10 Main Street, 2nd Floor
Hackensack, NJ 07601
201-221-0700 ext. 25103
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
New Jersey Courts
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Access Online Forms: The New Jersey Judiciary provides standardized divorce forms through their website:
- New Jersey Courts Self-Help Resources
- Forms available include complaints, answers, financial disclosures, and certifications
- Documents are provided in fillable PDF format
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Request Forms by Mail: Contact the Family Division and request that forms be mailed:
Bergen County Family Division
Justice Center, 10 Main Street
Hackensack, NJ 07601
201-221-0700
- Utilize Law Library Resources: The Bergen County Law Library maintains copies of all required forms:
Bergen County Law Library
Justice Center, 10 Main Street, 1st Floor
Hackensack, NJ 07601
201-221-0700 ext. 25103
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Consult with Legal Services: Low-income individuals may qualify for assistance:
Northeast New Jersey Legal Services
190 Moore Street, 1st Floor
Hackensack, NJ 07601
201-487-2166
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Required divorce papers typically include:
- Complaint for Divorce (Form 1A or 1B)
- Confidential Litigant Information Sheet
- Certification of Insurance Coverage
- Certification of Notification of Complementary Dispute Resolution
- Case Information Statement (for cases involving financial issues)
- Certification of No Pending Proceedings
All forms must be completed in accordance with N.J. Court Rule 5:4-2 governing matrimonial actions.