Navigating the aftermath of a divorce can be challenging, especially when you need official documentation for legal, financial, or personal reasons. At Hobson & Hobson, P.C., we understand the importance of having timely access to your divorce decree. Whether you’re asking, “how do I get my divorce decree?” or “can I get a copy of my divorce papers online?”, our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the process.

What is a Divorce Decree?

A divorce decree is the final, legally binding document issued by the court that officially ends your marriage. It outlines the terms of your divorce, including property division, child custody, alimony, and other critical agreements. This document is essential for everything from changing your name to enforcing custody arrangements or remarrying.

Why You Might Need Your Divorce Decree

Clients often ask us, “why do I need a copy of my divorce decree?” Common reasons include:

Changing your name or updating identification documents
Enforcing child custody or support orders
Proving marital status for financial or legal matters
Remarrying

Having a certified copy ensures you can handle these matters efficiently and without unnecessary delays.

Where and How to Obtain Your Divorce Decree in Georgia

1. In-Person Requests

The most direct way to get your divorce decree is by visiting the Clerk of Superior Court in the county where your divorce was finalized. For example, if your divorce was granted in Cobb County, you would visit the Cobb County Superior Court Clerk’s office. Bring a valid photo ID and be prepared to pay a small fee.

Key steps:

Visit the Clerk of Superior Court in the county of your divorce.
Bring a government-issued photo ID.
Complete the required request form.
Pay the applicable fee (varies by county).

2. Mail Requests

If you cannot visit in person, you can request your divorce decree by mail. This is a convenient option for those living out of state or unable to travel.

How to request by mail:

Write a request letter including your full name, case number (if known), and the date of divorce.
Include a copy of your photo ID.
Enclose payment (usually a cashier’s check or money order; personal checks are often not accepted).
Provide a self-addressed stamped envelope for return.

Example (Cobb County): Mail to: Clerk of Superior Court Court Division P.O. Box 3370 Marietta, GA 30061

3. Online Requests: Can You Get Your Divorce Decree Online?

Many clients wonder, “can you get a divorce decree online?” or “can you get your divorce decree online?” In Georgia, some counties offer online access to divorce records, but this varies. While you may be able to view case information online, obtaining a certified copy of your divorce decree typically requires an in-person or mail request.

Check the website of the Superior Court Clerk in your county for online services.
Some counties, like Fulton and Cobb, provide online portals for case lookup, but certified copies must still be requested formally.

For more information on Georgia’s court system and online services, visit the Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority.

4. Certified Copies: What Is a Certified Divorce Decree?

A certified copy of your divorce decree is an official court document, stamped and signed by the Clerk of Court, verifying its authenticity. Certified copies are often required for legal proceedings, government agencies, or when remarrying.

How to get a certified copy of divorce decree:

Specify your need for a certified copy when making your request.
Pay the additional certification fee (varies by county; for example, Cobb County charges $24 for a certified decree with an agreement).

5. Lost Your Divorce Papers? Here’s What to Do

If you’ve lost your original divorce papers, don’t worry. The process for obtaining a replacement is the same as requesting a new copy. Simply contact the Clerk of Superior Court in the county where your divorce was finalized and follow the steps above.

Costs and Fees

Fees for obtaining divorce decrees in Georgia vary by county and document type. Here are some examples:

Cobb County:
Regular copy with agreement: $9
Certified copy with agreement: $24
Regular copy without agreement: $3
Certified copy without agreement: $10
Fulton County:
$25 recording fee for divorce records

Always check with your county’s Clerk of Superior Court for the most current fee schedule.

Requirements for Obtaining Your Divorce Decree

To obtain your divorce decree, you will need:

A valid photo ID
The case number (if available)
Names of both parties
Date of divorce (approximate if exact date is unknown)
Payment for applicable fees

How to Find Your Divorce Decree: Step-by-Step

Identify the county where your divorce was finalized.
Contact the Clerk of Superior Court in that county.
Decide on your request method: in-person, mail, or online (if available).
Prepare your documentation: photo ID, request form, payment.
Submit your request and await processing.

For more on Georgia’s divorce process, see the Georgia Department of Public Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get my divorce decree in Georgia?

Visit or contact the Clerk of Superior Court in the county where your divorce was finalized. You can request your decree in person, by mail, or (in some counties) online.

Can I get a copy of my divorce papers online?

Some counties offer online case lookup, but certified copies usually require a formal request. Check your county’s Superior Court Clerk website for details.

How do I get a certified copy of my divorce decree?

Request a certified copy directly from the Clerk of Superior Court. Specify your need for certification and pay the applicable fee.

What if I lost my divorce decree?

You can obtain a replacement by following the same process as for a new copy. Contact the Clerk of Superior Court in the county where your divorce was granted.

Where can I get my divorce decree?

From the Clerk of Superior Court in the county where your divorce was finalized. For more information, visit the Georgia Courts website.

How long does it take to get a copy of my divorce decree?

In-person requests are often processed the same day. Mail requests may take several days to weeks, depending on the county’s processing times.

Professional Tips from Hobson & Hobson

Keep multiple certified copies of your divorce decree for future needs.
Store your decree in a secure place with other vital records.
Contact us for guidance if you encounter difficulties or need help with complex divorce or custody matters.
Stay informed: Laws and procedures can change, so rely on experienced legal professionals for up-to-date advice.

Why Choose Hobson & Hobson, P.C.?

With over 30 years of combined experience, our team at Hobson & Hobson, P.C. is dedicated to providing efficient, innovative, and client-focused legal solutions. We leverage advanced technology to streamline your experience, ensuring you receive the support and information you need — when you need it most.

Our attorneys are trained in both amicable resolution and aggressive litigation, allowing us to protect your parental rights and finances, no matter how complex your case. With five convenient office locations across Atlanta, Canton, Marietta, Alpharetta, Milton, Roswell, and Duluth, we are always within reach.

Ready to discuss your case or need help obtaining your divorce decree? Contact Hobson & Hobson, P.C. for a consultation.

Additional Resources

At Hobson & Hobson, P.C., we are committed to guiding you through every step of your family law journey with professionalism, innovation, and unwavering support.

Sarah Hobson

Attorney Sarah Hobson at Hobson and Hobson, P.C. are powerful advocates for those who fight for better futures for those going through divorce and custody law matters.