Stark County Divorce Records
What Are Stark County Divorce Records?
Divorce records in Stark County, Ohio are official legal documents that provide evidence of the dissolution of a marriage within the county's jurisdiction. These records are maintained by the Stark County Clerk of Courts as part of their statutory responsibility to preserve court proceedings and judgments pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 2303.14.
Divorce records typically consist of several components:
- Petition for dissolution of marriage
- Summons and proof of service
- Financial affidavits
- Parenting plans (when minor children are involved)
- Property settlement agreements
- Final judgment and decree of divorce
The Stark County Clerk of Courts maintains these records as part of the county's Family Court Division case files. All divorce proceedings in Stark County are handled through the Stark County Court of Common Pleas, which has jurisdiction over domestic relations matters as established by Article IV, Section 1 of the Ohio Constitution.
Stark County Clerk of Courts
115 Central Plaza North
Canton, OH 44702
(330) 451-7786
Stark County Clerk of Courts
Are Stark County Divorce Records Public?
Divorce records in Stark County are generally considered public records in accordance with Ohio's Public Records Act (Ohio Revised Code § 149.43). This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including court records, are open to public inspection unless specifically exempted by law.
Members of the public may access divorce records through the following means:
- In-person requests at the Stark County Clerk of Courts office
- Online case search through the Clerk's electronic portal
- Written requests submitted by mail
However, certain components of divorce files may be restricted from public access under Ohio law, including:
- Records containing sensitive personal identifiers such as Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and dates of birth (pursuant to Sup.R. 44-47)
- Records involving minor children that contain sensitive information
- Records sealed by court order for good cause shown
The Clerk of Courts maintains public access terminals at their office where members of the public may search and view non-confidential divorce records during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, excluding legal holidays.
How To Find a Divorce Record In Stark County in 2025
Locating divorce records in Stark County requires following established procedures through the appropriate county offices. The primary methods for obtaining these records are:
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In-Person Requests: Individuals may visit the Stark County Clerk of Courts office during regular business hours. Requestors should be prepared to provide:
- Names of both parties to the divorce
- Approximate date of filing or finalization
- Case number (if known)
- Valid photo identification
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Written Requests: Written requests may be submitted to the Clerk's office by mail. Such requests should include:
- Names of both parties
- Approximate date of divorce
- Requestor's contact information
- Check or money order for applicable fees ($1.00 per page for copies, $1.00 per document for certification)
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Electronic Case Search: The Clerk's office maintains an electronic case management system that allows for limited searches of case information.
Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 2303.20, the Clerk of Courts may charge reasonable fees for copies of divorce records. Current fee schedules are available at the Clerk's office or on their official website.
Stark County Clerk of Courts - Family Court Division
115 Central Plaza North, Suite 500
Canton, OH 44702
(330) 451-7786
Stark County Clerk of Courts
How To Look Up Divorce Records in Stark County Online?
The Stark County Clerk of Courts provides electronic access to certain divorce record information through their online case management system. This system allows for remote access to basic case information and docket entries.
To access divorce records online, users should:
- Visit the Stark County Clerk of Courts website
- Navigate to the "Case Search" or "Records Search" section
- Select "Domestic Relations" or "Family Court" as the case type
- Enter search criteria such as party names, case numbers, or filing dates
- Review the search results for relevant case information
The online system provides access to:
- Case numbers and filing dates
- Names of parties and attorneys
- Docket entries showing case activity
- Scheduled hearing dates
- Case status information
It is important to note that while basic case information is available online, complete divorce files including all pleadings and exhibits may not be accessible through the electronic system. Pursuant to Ohio Supreme Court Superintendence Rule 45, certain sensitive information may be redacted from online records to protect privacy interests while maintaining public access to court proceedings.
For comprehensive access to complete divorce files, individuals may need to visit the Clerk's office in person or submit a written request for certified copies.
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Stark County?
Members of the public may access divorce records in Stark County at no cost through several methods, though fees may apply for obtaining copies or certified documents.
Free access options include:
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Public Access Terminals: The Stark County Clerk of Courts maintains public access computer terminals at their office where individuals may search and view divorce case information at no charge. These terminals are available during regular business hours.
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Online Case Search: Basic case information is available through the Clerk's online portal at no cost. This includes party names, case numbers, filing dates, and docket entries.
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In-Person Review: Individuals may request to review physical divorce files at the Clerk's office without charge. Staff will retrieve the requested files for on-site inspection.
While viewing records is free, the following fees apply for obtaining copies pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 2303.20:
- Photocopies: $1.00 per page
- Certified copies: $1.00 per document plus copy fees
- Complete file copies: Variable based on file size
Stark County Clerk of Courts
115 Central Plaza North
Canton, OH 44702
(330) 451-7786
Stark County Clerk of Courts
What's Included in a Divorce Records In Stark County
Divorce records in Stark County contain comprehensive documentation of the legal proceedings that dissolved a marriage. These files typically include multiple documents that chronicle the case from initiation to final judgment.
Standard components of Stark County divorce records include:
- Complaint/Petition for Divorce: The initial filing that states the grounds for divorce and requested relief
- Summons: Official notice to the respondent about the divorce action
- Answer and Counterclaim: The respondent's formal reply to the divorce petition
- Financial Disclosure Affidavits: Sworn statements detailing each party's assets, liabilities, income, and expenses
- Separation Agreement: Document outlining the division of property, debt allocation, and spousal support arrangements
- Parenting Plan: Details regarding custody, visitation, and child support (when minor children are involved)
- Final Decree/Judgment Entry: The court's final order dissolving the marriage and establishing the terms of the divorce
Additional documents that may be included:
- Temporary orders regarding support, custody, or property
- Motions and responses filed during the proceedings
- Transcripts of hearings
- Guardian ad litem reports (in cases involving children)
- Qualified domestic relations orders (QDROs) for division of retirement accounts
These records are maintained by the Stark County Court of Common Pleas and are accessible through the Clerk of Courts office in accordance with Ohio public records laws.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In Stark County?
Individuals seeking official proof of divorce in Stark County may obtain certified copies of divorce decrees through established procedures at the Clerk of Courts office. These certified documents serve as legal evidence of marital dissolution for various purposes.
To obtain proof of divorce, requestors should:
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Submit a Request Form: Complete the records request form available at the Clerk's office or downloadable from their website.
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Provide Identifying Information:
- Full names of both parties as they appear on the divorce decree
- Date of divorce finalization (approximate if exact date unknown)
- Case number (if available)
- Requestor's contact information
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Pay Required Fees: The current fee for a certified copy of a divorce decree is $1.00 for certification plus $1.00 per page, pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 2303.20.
Requests may be submitted:
- In person at the Clerk's office
- By mail with payment enclosed
- Through an authorized representative with proper identification
Certified copies bear the official seal of the Stark County Clerk of Courts and are accepted as legal proof of divorce for purposes including:
- Name change procedures
- Remarriage license applications
- Immigration proceedings
- Retirement benefit claims
- Insurance coverage modifications
Stark County Clerk of Courts
115 Central Plaza North
Canton, OH 44702
(330) 451-7786
Stark County Clerk of Courts
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Stark County?
While divorce proceedings in Stark County are generally public records, Ohio law provides mechanisms for maintaining confidentiality in certain circumstances. The court may order records sealed or redacted to protect legitimate privacy interests while balancing the public's right to access court records.
Circumstances that may warrant confidentiality include:
- Domestic Violence Concerns: When disclosure would jeopardize a party's safety
- Minor Children's Information: Details that could harm or identify minor children
- Sensitive Financial Information: Trade secrets, business valuations, or financial account numbers
- Medical or Mental Health Information: Records containing protected health information
To request confidentiality, parties must:
- File a motion with the Stark County Court of Common Pleas requesting sealing or redaction
- Demonstrate compelling reasons that outweigh the public interest in access
- Specify which documents or information should be protected
- Attend a hearing if scheduled by the court
The court will evaluate requests for confidentiality pursuant to Ohio Supreme Court Superintendence Rules 44-47, which establish standards for sealing court records. Even when records are sealed, certain basic case information typically remains accessible, including party names and case numbers.
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 Stark County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in Stark County varies significantly based on multiple factors related to case complexity and the parties' ability to reach agreement on key issues.
Typical timeframes for Stark County divorces:
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Uncontested Divorces: When parties agree on all issues, divorces may be finalized in approximately 90-120 days from filing.
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Contested Divorces: Cases requiring judicial resolution of disputed issues typically take 9-12 months, though complex matters may extend beyond this timeframe.
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Dissolution of Marriage: This alternative to traditional divorce, where parties file jointly with a complete agreement, may be finalized in as little as 30-60 days after filing.
Factors affecting timeline include:
- Court docket congestion
- Complexity of asset division
- Child custody disputes
- Discovery processes and expert evaluations
- Availability of mediation services
- Cooperation between parties and counsel
The Stark County Court of Common Pleas Domestic Relations Division establishes case management timelines pursuant to Ohio Rules of Superintendence Rule 39, which requires courts to ensure the timely disposition of cases while allowing sufficient time for proper case preparation.
Parties seeking expedited proceedings should consider alternative dispute resolution methods, including mediation services offered through the court.
How Long Does Stark County Keep Divorce Records?
Divorce records in Stark County are maintained permanently in accordance with Ohio's records retention requirements for courts of common pleas. These records are considered vital legal documents that establish important rights and obligations.
The retention schedule for divorce records includes:
- Case Files: Maintained permanently by the Clerk of Courts in either physical or electronic format
- Docket Entries: Preserved indefinitely as part of the court's permanent record
- Final Decrees: Retained permanently as official judgments of the court
- Exhibits: May be returned to parties after appeal periods expire, though records of exhibits are maintained
The Stark County Recorder's Office may also maintain certain divorce-related documents that affect real property interests, such as property transfer deeds resulting from divorce settlements.
Older records may be archived in various formats:
- Microfilm or microfiche for records prior to digital recordkeeping
- Electronic document management systems for more recent filings
- Physical storage for certain original documents
Stark County Recorder's Office
110 Central Plaza South, Suite 170
Canton, OH 44702
(330) 451-7443
Stark County Recorder
How To Get a Divorce In Stark County
Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Stark County must follow established legal procedures through the Stark County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Division. The process involves multiple steps from initial filing through final judgment.
The divorce process typically includes:
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Residency Requirements: At least one spouse must have been a resident of Ohio for six months and a resident of Stark County for 90 days prior to filing, pursuant to Ohio Revised Code § 3105.03.
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Initial Filing: The petitioner must file a Complaint for Divorce with the Clerk of Courts and pay the required filing fee (currently $300). Fee waivers may be available for indigent parties.
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Service of Process: The non-filing spouse must be formally served with the complaint and summons according to Ohio Civil Rules of Procedure.
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Response Period: The respondent has 28 days to file an Answer to the complaint.
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Temporary Orders: Either party may request temporary orders regarding support, custody, or property use while the case is pending.
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Discovery: Parties exchange financial information and other relevant evidence.
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Pretrial Conferences: The court schedules hearings to monitor case progress and facilitate settlement discussions.
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Final Hearing: If parties reach agreement, an uncontested hearing is held; if issues remain disputed, a trial is conducted.
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Decree Issuance: The court issues a final decree establishing the terms of the divorce.
Parties may expedite the process by filing for dissolution of marriage instead of divorce when they have reached complete agreement on all issues.
Stark County Court of Common Pleas - Domestic Relations Division
115 Central Plaza North
Canton, OH 44702
(330) 451-7300
Stark County Court of Common Pleas
How To Get Divorce Papers In Stark County
Individuals initiating divorce proceedings in Stark County may obtain the necessary forms through several authorized channels. These documents must be properly completed and filed with the Clerk of Courts to commence legal proceedings.
Divorce papers may be obtained through:
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Clerk of Courts Office: Standard divorce forms are available at the Stark County Clerk of Courts office during regular business hours. Staff cannot provide legal advice but can confirm which forms are required.
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Court Website: Many required forms are available for download from the Stark County Clerk of Courts website in fillable PDF format.
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Law Library: The Stark County Law Library provides access to divorce form packets and legal reference materials.
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Legal Aid: The Legal Aid Society of Stark County may provide forms and limited assistance to qualifying low-income individuals.
Required documents typically include:
- Complaint for Divorce
- Case Designation Form
- Affidavit of Income and Expenses
- Affidavit of Property
- Health Insurance Affidavit
- Parenting Proceeding Affidavit (if children are involved)
- Request for Service
Filing fees must be paid at the time of submission unless a poverty affidavit is approved by the court. Current filing fees are $300 for divorce actions and $250 for dissolutions.
Stark County Law Library
101 West Tuscarawas Street
Canton, OH 44702
(330) 451-7300