What Information Is Included in New Jersey Divorce Records?

New Jersey divorce records usually include the names of both spouses, the docket number, the county where the case was filed, the date of the final judgment, and the court’s decisions on issues such as support, custody, and property. Some sensitive documents in the same file, however, are kept from public view.

New Jersey is home to more than 9 million people, which makes it the most densely populated state in the country. The state is divided into 21 counties, from Sussex in the north to Cape May at the southern tip.

Divorce records in New Jersey are kept by the court system rather than a vital records office. Knowing what each record contains and which parts are restricted helps you request the right document and understand what others can see.

The Final Judgment of Divorce

The final judgment of divorce is the main record most people need. It is the court order that officially ends the marriage in New Jersey. A copy is often needed to update official records.

A final judgment commonly includes:

• The names of both spouses
• The docket number, which typically begins with FM for divorce cases
• The county of venue and the date the judgment was entered
• The legal grounds for the divorce
• Rulings on alimony, child support, custody, and parenting time
• How marital property and debts were divided
• Whether a spouse may resume a prior name

In many cases, the judgment refers to a settlement agreement the spouses signed. The judgment then confirms that the agreement is part of the court’s order.

Other Documents in a Divorce Case File

A New Jersey divorce file contains more than the final judgment. It also holds the filings made while the case was open.

These may include the complaint for divorce, the answer or counterclaim, motions, and interim court orders. Many of these documents are available to the public, although specific contents may be redacted.

Information That Stays Confidential

New Jersey court rules shield several types of divorce records from public access. These protections exist because divorce files often contain financial, medical, and family details.

Under New Jersey Court Rule 1:38-3(d), the following are generally excluded from public access:

• Case Information Statements required by Rule 5:5-2, which list income, assets, debts, and expenses
• Settlement agreements incorporated into divorce judgments or orders
• Child custody evaluations and parenting time reports
• Medical and psychological records used in support or custody decisions
• Domestic violence records and the names and addresses of victims

The spouses and their attorneys can usually still see these documents. The restrictions apply to members of the public, such as neighbors, employers, or reporters.

New Jersey filers must also keep certain personal identifiers, such as Social Security numbers, out of public court filings.

Public Vs Restricted Records at a Glance

In New Jersey, final judgments of divorce are generally available to the public, while complaints, answers, and motions are generally accessible with appropriate redactions.

Case Information Statements and incorporated settlement agreements are restricted to parties and their attorneys. Custody evaluations and domestic violence records are also generally restricted.

Where New Jersey Divorce Records Are Kept

The New Jersey Department of Health does not issue divorce certificates. Certified copies of divorce judgments are requested through the Superior Court Clerk’s Office.

Depending on the year of the divorce, the judgment may be held at the Superior Court Records Center or by the Family Division in the county where the case was filed. The minimum fee for a certified copy is $10.

Details to Have Ready Before Requesting a Copy

Having these details on hand can speed up a records search:

• The FM docket number, if available
• The names of both spouses
• The county where the divorce was granted
• The approximate year the judgment was entered

Points to Note

• New Jersey divorce records are kept by the court system, not the Department of Health.
• The final judgment lists the parties, docket number, date, and key rulings.
• Case information statements and incorporated settlement agreements are not public.
• Custody evaluations and domestic violence records are also restricted.
• Spouses and their attorneys can usually access restricted documents.
• A certified copy of a divorce judgment costs at least $10.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for specific guidance.