Travis Public Records /Travis County Divorce Records

Travis County Divorce Records

What Are Travis County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Travis County are official legal documents that provide evidence of the dissolution of a marriage within the jurisdiction. These records are maintained pursuant to Texas Family Code § 6.001, which establishes the grounds for divorce in the state. The Travis County District Clerk serves as the official custodian of these records, which document all aspects of divorce proceedings filed within the county.

Divorce records typically consist of several components:

Petition for Divorce - The initial filing that commences the divorce action
Citation or Waiver of Service - Documentation showing the non-filing spouse was properly notified
Answer or Response - The non-filing spouse's formal reply to the petition
Temporary Orders - Court directives governing conduct during the pendency of the case
Final Decree of Divorce - The court's final judgment dissolving the marriage
Property Settlement Agreements - Documents detailing division of marital assets and debts
Child Custody and Support Orders - Provisions regarding minor children, if applicable

These records serve numerous important purposes, including providing legal proof of marital status change for remarriage, name change procedures, Social Security benefit applications, loan applications, and immigration matters. The Travis County District Clerk maintains these records in accordance with state retention schedules.

Are Travis County Divorce Records Public?

Travis County divorce records have a dual status regarding public accessibility. Court case files related to divorce proceedings are generally considered public records under the Texas Public Information Act, Government Code Chapter 552, which establishes the presumption that government records should be accessible to the public. However, this access is subject to important limitations and exceptions.

The following aspects of divorce records are typically accessible to the public:

Basic case information (parties' names, case number, filing date)
Court dockets showing scheduled hearings
Final divorce decrees (with certain redactions)
Property settlement agreements (unless sealed)

Conversely, certain components of divorce records may be restricted from public access:

Records containing sensitive personal identifiers such as Social Security numbers, bank account information, and dates of birth are redacted pursuant to Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 21c
Records involving minor children may have restricted access
Financial affidavits and discovery materials
Records sealed by court order upon motion by either party

Certified divorce certificates, which provide official verification of a divorce, have more restricted access. Under Texas Health and Safety Code § 181.1, these certificates are available only to the divorced parties themselves, their immediate family members, legal representatives, or others who can demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Travis County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in Travis County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The appropriate approach depends on the specific type of record needed and the requester's relationship to the case.

For court case files related to divorce proceedings:

Visit the Travis County District Clerk's office in person:

Travis County District Clerk
1000 Guadalupe Street, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 854-9457
Travis County District Clerk

Provide the clerk with as much identifying information as possible:
- Full names of both parties to the divorce
- Approximate date of filing or finalization
- Case number (if known)
Complete a records request form and pay applicable fees:
- Research fee: $5.00 per name searched
- Copy fees: $1.00 per page
- Certification fee: $5.00 per document (if certified copies are needed)
For online access to case information, utilize the Travis County District Clerk's Case Information & Records portal, which provides limited case information without charge.

For certified divorce verifications:

Contact the Texas Department of State Health Services - Vital Statistics Section, which maintains a statewide index of all divorces granted in Texas since 1968.
Submit a completed application form with required identification and payment:
- Regular processing: $20.00 per copy
- Expedited processing: Additional $10.00 per copy
Requests may be submitted by mail, in person at the state vital records office, or through authorized local registrars.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Travis County Online?

Travis County provides several digital resources for accessing divorce record information online, though complete case files typically require in-person requests. The following online search options are currently available:

Travis County District Clerk's Online Case Information System:
- Navigate to the Travis County District Clerk's Case Information & Records portal
- Select "Search Court Records" from the available options
- Search by party name, case number, or attorney name
- This system provides basic case information including:
  - Case number and filing date
  - Party names and attorney information
  - Register of actions showing document filings
  - Scheduled hearing dates
Travis County Clerk's Records Search:
- Visit the Travis County Clerk's Recording Search portal
- Select "Public Records Search" from the available options
- Search parameters include name, document type, and date range
- This system primarily contains recorded instruments related to real property but may include certain divorce-related documents
Texas Department of State Health Services Online Ordering:
- For verification of divorce (not full case files), visit the Texas Vital Records portal
- Select "Order Divorce Verification" from the available options
- Provide required information and payment
- Note that this service is restricted to eligible individuals as defined by state law

When using online search tools, users should be aware of the following limitations:

Complete case files are not available for download
Certain sensitive information is redacted from viewable documents
Records sealed by court order will not appear in search results
Older records (generally pre-2000) may have limited online availability

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Travis County?

Travis County residents and interested parties may access certain divorce record information without payment, though comprehensive searches and document copies typically involve fees. The following free resources are available:

Public Access Terminals at the Travis County District Clerk's Office:
- Located at 1000 Guadalupe Street, Austin, TX 78701
- Available during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
- These terminals provide access to the same case information available through the online portal
- No fee is charged for searching or viewing basic case information
Travis County Law Library and Self-Help Center:
- Located at 314 W. 11th Street, Suite 140, Austin, TX 78701
- (512) 854-8677
- Provides free public access to legal research materials and assistance with locating court records
- Staff cannot provide legal advice but can help navigate the records system
Online Case Information:
- Basic case information is available without charge through the Travis County District Clerk's website
- Limited to case numbers, party names, and docket entries
- Does not include document images or complete case files
Public Court Calendars:
- Court dockets listing scheduled hearings are posted outside courtrooms and available online
- These calendars include case numbers and party names for upcoming proceedings
- May help identify cases for further research

While these resources provide free access to basic information, the following limitations apply:

Document copies require payment of statutory fees
Certified copies always require payment
Extensive research assistance may not be available without charge
Records sealed by court order are not accessible through these methods

Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 51.318, district clerks are required to collect fees for most records services to offset the costs of maintaining these systems.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Travis County

Divorce records in Travis County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the entire legal process of marriage dissolution. These records are maintained by the Travis County District Clerk and typically contain the following components:

Initial Pleadings:
- Original Petition for Divorce - The document initiating the divorce proceeding
- Citation or Waiver of Service - Documentation showing proper notification of the respondent
- Answer or Counter-Petition - The respondent's formal reply to the petition
Temporary Orders and Proceedings:
- Temporary Restraining Orders - Emergency directives to maintain status quo
- Temporary Orders - Court directives governing conduct during pendency of case
- Motions and Responses - Requests for court action during the proceedings
- Discovery Documents - Information exchanged between parties (interrogatories, depositions)
- Financial Affidavits - Sworn statements detailing assets, liabilities, and income
Final Judgment Documents:
- Final Decree of Divorce - The court's final judgment dissolving the marriage
- Property Settlement Agreement - Detailed division of marital assets and debts
- Child Custody Orders - Provisions regarding conservatorship and possession schedules
- Child Support Orders - Financial obligations for minor children's care
- Spousal Maintenance Orders - Provisions for alimony or spousal support, if applicable
Post-Judgment Documents:
- Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) - Orders dividing retirement accounts
- Deeds and Transfers - Documents executing property divisions
- Name Change Orders - Court orders restoring previous names
- Enforcement Actions - Proceedings to enforce compliance with divorce decree
- Modification Proceedings - Actions to change custody, support, or other provisions

The level of detail in these records varies based on the complexity of the case, whether children were involved, the extent of property to be divided, and whether the divorce was contested or uncontested. All documents filed become part of the official court record, though certain sensitive information may be redacted from public copies pursuant to Texas Rules of Civil Procedure 21c.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Travis County?

Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Travis County have several options for obtaining this documentation, depending on the level of detail and certification needed. The following methods are currently available:

Certified Copy of Final Divorce Decree:
- Visit the Travis County District Clerk's Office in person:
  
  Travis County District Clerk
  1000 Guadalupe Street, Austin, TX 78701
  (512) 854-9457
  Travis County District Clerk
- Provide the case number, names of parties, and approximate date of divorce
- Complete a records request form and pay the required fees:
  - $5.00 for certification
  - $1.00 per page for copies
- Photo identification is required for all requests
Certificate of Divorce (Verification Letter):
- Contact the Texas Department of State Health Services - Vital Statistics Section:
  
  Texas Vital Statistics
  1100 West 49th Street, Austin, TX 78756
  (888) 963-7111
  Texas DSHS Vital Statistics
- Submit a completed application form with required identification
- Pay the $20.00 fee per certificate
- This document verifies the fact of divorce but does not contain the terms
Mail Request to District Clerk:
- Send a written request to the Travis County District Clerk
- Include case information, specific documents needed, and contact information
- Enclose a check or money order for applicable fees
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for return mailing
Online Ordering for Divorce Verification:
- Visit the Texas Vital Records portal
- Complete the online application for divorce verification
- Pay required fees via credit card
- Note that this method provides only verification of divorce, not the decree itself

For most legal purposes requiring proof of divorce, a certified copy of the Final Decree of Divorce provides the most comprehensive documentation. This document contains the court's official judgment and all terms of the divorce settlement. The certificate of divorce (verification letter) is typically sufficient for name changes, remarriage licenses, and certain benefits applications.

Pursuant to Texas Family Code § 6.409, the clerk of the court is required to provide certified copies of divorce decrees to eligible requesters upon payment of statutory fees.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Travis County?

While divorce proceedings in Travis County are generally matters of public record, Texas law provides several mechanisms through which certain aspects of divorce cases may be kept confidential. The following provisions currently exist for maintaining privacy in divorce matters:

Sealing of Records:
- Parties may petition the court to seal all or portions of the divorce file
- The court must find that a "specific, serious and substantial interest" outweighs the presumption of openness
- This procedure is governed by Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 76a, which requires:
  - Filing a written motion specifically stating the grounds for sealing
  - Posting public notice of the request to seal
  - A public hearing on the motion
  - Court findings that sealing is justified and no less restrictive means exist
Automatic Redaction of Sensitive Information:
- Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.147, the following information is automatically redacted from public copies:
  - Social Security numbers
  - Bank account numbers
  - Credit card numbers
  - Driver's license numbers
  - Other personal identifiers
Protective Orders for Discovery:
- Information exchanged during discovery (financial records, medical information, etc.) is not automatically filed with the court
- Parties may obtain protective orders under Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 192.6 to prevent disclosure of sensitive information
Use of Initials or Pseudonyms:
- In exceptional cases, the court may permit parties to use initials or pseudonyms
- This is rare in divorce cases but may be granted in situations involving:
  - Domestic violence concerns
  - High-profile individuals
  - Matters affecting minor children's privacy
Confidential Information Form:
- Sensitive information required by the court may be submitted on a confidential information form
- This form is not accessible to the general public

It is important to note that confidentiality measures are the exception rather than the rule. The Texas judicial system operates under a strong presumption of openness, and courts generally require compelling reasons to restrict public access to court records. Parties seeking confidentiality should consult with legal counsel regarding the specific procedures and standards applicable to their situation.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Travis County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Travis County varies significantly based on several factors, including case complexity, level of agreement between parties, court docket congestion, and statutory waiting periods. The following timeframes represent current processing expectations:

Statutory Waiting Period:
- Texas imposes a mandatory 60-day waiting period from the date of filing before a divorce can be finalized
- This requirement is established by Texas Family Code § 6.702
- The waiting period cannot be waived except in cases involving family violence with an active protective order
Uncontested Divorces:
- When parties agree on all issues (property division, child custody, support)
- Typical timeframe: 60-90 days from filing to finalization
- Process includes:
  - Filing petition and waiting for answer or waiver of service
  - Drafting agreed decree and supporting documents
  - Scheduling and attending final hearing after waiting period expires
Contested Divorces with Eventual Settlement:
- When parties initially disagree but reach agreement before trial
- Typical timeframe: 4-8 months
- Process includes:
  - Temporary orders hearing (usually within 2-4 weeks of filing)
  - Discovery period (2-4 months)
  - Mediation (typically required before trial setting)
  - Drafting settlement documents
  - Final hearing to approve settlement
Fully Contested Divorces Requiring Trial:
- When parties cannot reach agreement on significant issues
- Typical timeframe: 8-14 months
- Process includes:
  - Temporary orders hearing
  - Extended discovery period
  - Pre-trial motions and hearings
  - Trial preparation
  - Trial (may last from half a day to several days)
  - Post-trial motions and entry of final decree
Complex Property or Custody Cases:
- Cases involving business valuations, complex assets, or contested custody
- Typical timeframe: 12-24 months
- May involve:
  - Appointment of experts (business valuators, custody evaluators)
  - Multiple pre-trial hearings
  - Extended discovery
  - Possible bifurcation of issues

According to statistics from the Office of Court Administration, the average disposition time for contested family law cases in Travis County is approximately 9.2 months from filing to final disposition. However, individual cases may vary significantly from this average based on the specific circumstances and issues involved.

How Long Does Travis County Keep Divorce Records?

Travis County maintains divorce records according to retention schedules established by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission under the authority of Texas Government Code § 441.158. These schedules dictate the minimum period for which different types of court records must be preserved. The following retention periods currently apply to divorce records:

Case Files and Final Judgments:
- Final Decrees of Divorce: Permanent retention
- Case Files (all documents filed in the case): Permanent retention
- These records are maintained by the Travis County District Clerk
Docket Sheets and Indices:
- Court Dockets: Permanent retention
- Case Indices: Permanent retention
- These records facilitate location of case files and track case progression
Exhibits:
- Documentary Exhibits: Retained for 30 days after case disposition becomes final
- Physical Exhibits: Retained for 30 days after case disposition becomes final
- Parties must file a motion to preserve exhibits beyond these periods
Audio/Video Recordings of Proceedings:
- Retained for 3 years after case disposition
- Transcripts may be ordered during this period
- After 3 years, only written transcripts (if created) remain available
Administrative Records:
- Jury Lists and Voir Dire Records: 1 year after case disposition
- Notices and Setting Records: 1 year after case disposition
- These administrative records have shorter retention periods than substantive case documents

For divorce records predating electronic systems (generally pre-1990s), the county maintains:

Microfilm copies of case files and judgments: Permanent retention
Original paper records: May be destroyed after microfilming if quality standards are met

The Texas Department of State Health Services maintains a separate index of all divorces granted in Texas since 1968. This index contains basic information (names, date, county) but not the complete case files or decrees.

It is important to note that while records may be retained permanently, the accessibility of older records may be limited. Records not maintained in electronic format may require advance notice for retrieval from off-site storage facilities.

How To Get a Divorce In Travis County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Travis County must follow specific procedures established by Texas law. The divorce process involves several steps, which vary depending on whether the case is contested or uncontested:

Residency Requirements:
- Before filing, either spouse must have been:
  - A Texas resident for the preceding six months, AND
  - A Travis County resident for the preceding 90 days
- These requirements are established by Texas Family Code § 6.301
Filing the Petition:
- The divorce process begins with filing an Original Petition for Divorce with the Travis County District Clerk:
  
  Travis County District Clerk
  1000 Guadalupe Street, Austin, TX 78701
  (512) 854-9457
  Travis County District Clerk
- Filing fees (currently $318 for cases without children, $364 with children)
- Fee waivers available for qualifying low-income individuals (Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs)
Service of Process:
- The non-filing spouse must be legally notified through:
  - Personal service by a constable or private process server
  - Signing a Waiver of Service (if cooperative)
  - Alternative service methods with court permission (if the spouse cannot be located)
Waiting Period:
- Texas requires a 60-day "cooling off" period from the date of filing
- No final divorce decree can be granted before this period expires
- Exception: cases involving family violence with active protective orders
For Uncontested Divorces:
- If spouses agree on all issues, they may:
  - Prepare an Agreed Final Decree of Divorce
  - File any required supporting documents (property division inventory, child support calculations)
  - Schedule a brief "prove-up" hearing after the waiting period
  - Appear before the judge to finalize the divorce
For Contested Divorces:
- If spouses disagree on issues, additional steps include:
  - Temporary orders hearing to establish interim arrangements
  - Discovery process to exchange financial and other relevant information
  - Mediation (required in Travis County before trial setting)
  - Pre-trial hearings and motions
  - Trial before a judge or jury (if requested)
Post-Divorce Procedures:
- After the judge signs the Final Decree:
  - File certified copies with relevant agencies (for property transfers, name changes)
  - Update estate planning documents
  - Implement property division as ordered

The Travis County Law Library and Self-Help Center provides resources for self-represented litigants, including forms and procedural guidance. However, due to the legal complexities involved, consultation with an attorney is advisable, particularly for cases involving children, significant assets, or disputed issues.

How To Get Divorce Papers In Travis County

Individuals seeking to initiate or respond to divorce proceedings in Travis County have several options for obtaining the necessary legal forms and documents. The following resources are currently available:

Travis County Law Library and Self-Help Center:
- Located at 314 W. 11th Street, Suite 140, Austin, TX 78701
- (512) 854-8677
- Travis County Law Library
- Offers free access to:
  - Divorce form packets (with instructions)
  - Reference materials on divorce procedures
  - Computer terminals for form completion
  - Notary services for completed documents
Travis County District Clerk's Office:
- Located at 1000 Guadalupe Street, Austin, TX 78701
- (512) 854-9457
- Travis County District Clerk
- Provides:
  - Basic procedural information
  - Filing services for completed documents
  - Copies of documents from existing cases
Texas Law Help Website:
- TexasLawHelp.org
- Offers:
  - Interactive forms approved by the Texas Supreme Court
  - Step-by-step guides for completing divorce paperwork
  - Videos explaining divorce procedures
  - Information in both English and Spanish
Texas Supreme Court Approved Forms:
- Texas Judicial Branch - Divorce Forms
- Provides standardized forms for:
  - Divorce without children or significant property
  - Divorce with children
  - Waivers of service
  - Fee waiver applications
Legal Aid Organizations:
- Texas RioGrande Legal Aid
  - 4920 N. IH-35, Austin, TX 78751
  - (512) 374-2700
  - Texas RioGrande Legal Aid
- Volunteer Legal Services of Central Texas
  - 8001 Centre Park Drive, Suite 120, Austin, TX 78754
  - (512) 476-5550
  - VLS of Central Texas
- These organizations provide assistance to qualifying low-income individuals

When obtaining divorce papers, individuals should consider the following:

Different forms are required depending on circumstances (children, property, agreements)
Forms must be completed accurately and completely
Some forms require notarization before filing
Filing fees apply unless a fee waiver is granted
Self-represented litigants are held to the same standards as attorneys

While forms and self-help resources are available, the Travis County District Courts recommend consulting with an attorney, particularly for cases involving children, significant assets, or complex legal issues. The Travis County Lawyer Referral Service ((512) 472-8303) can provide referrals to attorneys who offer initial consultations at reduced rates.

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