Are Divorce Records Public in Minnesota? Search MN Divorce Free

Background check repair icon.Written by Background Check Repair

Background Checks | June 14, 2024

A man with his hand on his chin standing next to the state of Minnesota wonders are divorce records public in Minnesota and looks at a large computer screen with a divorced couple wondering how to find out the divorce rate in MN and how to find out if someone has filed for divorce in Minnesota.

Are divorce records public in Minnesota? Many people who may want to keep a previous divorce record in Minnesota confidential often wonder if any one can search public records and find MN divorce information.

In Minnesota, court records, such as those involved with divorces, are public record, and the can be part of what shows up on a regular background check.

To find out for sure are divorce records public in Minnesota, run a free background check right now to see what shows up.

However, if you need certified copies of divorce paperwork (like certificates and decrees), the following guide contains all the information needed to find these records in the MN system, as well as how to obtain copies. 

Are Minnesota Divorce Records Public? (Public Divorce Records MN)

Divorce proceedings can be pretty complicated in some cases, and it can be difficult to keep track of the abundance of documents, filings, contracts, and rulings along the way. At some point in time, parties to a divorce will be required to provide proof of their divorce. Furthermore, they may also need copies of written agreements and court orders pertaining to the divorce (child custody, debt settlement, etc.).

In the United States, divorce records are generally considered matters of public record, and state laws require that the public have reasonable access to these records (See 2021 Minnesota Statutes 138.17).18

Some states do restrict access to divorce records because of the sensitive nature of information, and thus, divorce certificates are often easier to obtain than the complete divorce records and decree. Additionally, some divorce cases may be sealed to ensure the privacy of juveniles or at-risk parties.12

In Minnesota, there are various pathways (some of which are free!) for viewing and obtaining divorce record information.15

To view divorce records, individuals will likely need the full names of the two parties and also a case or docket number or name of the court where the case was handled.

Individuals can find information (such as case numbers) about their divorce case by contacting the district clerk in the area. Read on to learn about accessing Minnesota divorce records in any county in the state.

Minnesota Public Access (MPA) Remote

MPA Remote is an online public-access database for case information.19 The documents maintained on MPA Remote are not official court records and are not guaranteed to be complete renderings of court cases.

Map that shows the Divorce Rate by County Population in Minnesotta.

MPA Remote provides “replicated case data” from the Minnesota Court Information System (MNCIS). Electronic copies are not currently available, but documents can be viewed for free.7

To search MPA Remote, follow these steps:7,19

Step 1: Follow the MPA Remote link and accept the Terms & Conditions.19

Step 2: Select the relevant county from the drop-down menu.

Step 3: Select “Civil, Family & Probate Case Records” from the menu options.

Step 4: Choose to search by Case, Party, or Attorney from the drop-down menu.

Step 5: Enter the required information and click “Search.”

Step 6: Use result links to access the Register of Action.

Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO)

MCRO is a newer database for individuals seeking online access to court records and documents from one of Minnesota’s district courts.20

District court documents from July, 2015 to the present are available to the public.

Cases can be searched by name of person, case number, attorney name, etc., and document, hearing, and judgment searches are also accessible. Currently, uncertified copies of documents are FREE to access and download through MCRO, though this may change in the future.20

To search MCRO, follow these steps:20

Step 1: Follow the MCRO link and click “Access MCRO” at the top.20

Step 2: Review the information on the page and choose the type of search (Case, Document, Hearing, or Judgment) from the top menu.

For divorce records, “Case Search” is most applicable.

Step 3: Choose to search by Name, Case Number, Citation Number, or Attorney.

Step 4: Enter the required information and select “Find.”

Step 5: View results list for desired case and click “View Case Details” to proceed.

NOTE that information for cases prior to July 2015 will be limited to case summaries.

Minnesota Public Access (MPA) Courthouse

In the instance when unofficial copies or downloads of court records prior to July 2015 are desired, an individual can access the MPA Courthouse free public database at any district courthouse. This service is FREE to the general public during weekday business hours and provides more complete information than MPA remote. However, it can not provide official, certified copies of divorce records.6

Obtaining Certified Copies of Divorce Records (Are Divorce Records Public in Minnesota at the County Level?)

Yes, the answer to, are divorce records public in Minnesota, is yes, and anyone can find them by accessing the county where the divorce was filed.

To obtain certified copies of divorce records, individuals should contact or visit the county/district courthouse and speak with the district clerk.

Some counties, such as Ramsey County and Hennepin County have District Court Records Centers where divorce records are stored, and the district clerk can direct interested persons to the correct venue.9,14

Most county/district clerks will charge a fee in the range of $10 to $20 for certified record copies. View the table below for links to each county’s district clerk.

Are Divorce Records Public in Each Minnesota County?Minnesota County Divorce Records
Are Divorce Records Public in Aitkin County, Minnesota? (Aitkin County, MN Divorce Records)Aitkin County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Anoka County, Minnesota? (Anoka County, MN Divorce Records)Anoka County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Becker County, Minnesota? (Becker County, MN Divorce RecordsBecker County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Beltrami County, Minnesota? (Beltrami County, MN Divorce Records)Beltrami County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Benton County, Minnesota? (Benton County, MN Divorce Records)Benton County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Big Stone County, Minnesota? (Big Stone County, MN Divorce Records)Big Stone County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Blue Earth County, Minnesota? (Blue Earth County, MN Divorce Records)Blue Earth County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Brown County, Minnesota? (Brown County, MN Divorce Records)Brown County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Carlton County, Minnesota? (Carlton County, MN Divorce Records)Carlton County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Carver County, Minnesota? (Carver County, MN Divorce Records)Carver County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Cass County, Minnesota? (Cass County, MN Divorce Records)Cass County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Chippewa County, Minnesota? (Chippewa County, MN Divorce Records)Chippewa County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Chisago County, Minnesota? (Chisago County, MN Divorce Records)Chisago County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Clay County, Minnesota? (Clay County, MN Divorce Records)Clay County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Clearwater County, Minnesota? (Clearwater County, MN Divorce Records)Clearwater County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Cook County, Minnesota? (Cook County, MN Divorce Records)Cook County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Cottonwood County, Minnesota? (Cottonwood County, MN Divorce Records)Cottonwood County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Crow Wing County, Minnesota? (Crow Wing County, MN Divorce Records)Crow Wing County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Dakota County, Minnesota? (Dakota County, MN Divorce Records)Dakota County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Dodge County, Minnesota? (Dodge County, MN Divorce Records)Dodge County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Douglas County, Minnesota? (Douglas County, MN Divorce Records)Douglas County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Faribault County, Minnesota? (Faribault County, MN Divorce Records)Faribault County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Fillmore County, Minnesota? (Fillmore County, MN Divorce Records)Fillmore County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Freeborn County, Minnesota? (Freeborn County, MN Divorce Records)Freeborn County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Goodhue County, Minnesota? (Goodhue County, MN Divorce Records)Goodhue County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Grant County, Minnesota? (Grant County, MN Divorce Records)Grant County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Hennepin County, Minnesota? (Hennepin County, MN Divorce Records)Hennepin County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Houston County, Minnesota? (Houston County, MN Divorce Records)Houston County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Hubbard County, Minnesota? (Hubbard County, MN Divorce Records)Hubbard County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Isanti County, Minnesota? (Isanti County, MN Divorce Records)Isanti County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Itasca County, Minnesota? (Itasca County, MN Divorce Records)Itasca County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Jackson County, Minnesota?(Jackson County, MN Divorce Records)Jackson County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Kanabec County, Minnesota? (Kanabec County, MN Divorce Records)Kanabec County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Kandiyohi County, Minnesota? (Kandiyohi County, MN Divorce Records)Kandiyohi County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Kittson County, Minnesota? (Kittson County, MN Divorce Records)Kittson County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Koochiching County, Minnesota? (Koochiching County, MN Divorce Records)Koochiching County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Lac qui Parle County, Minnesota? (La qui Parle County, MN Divorce Records)Lac qui Parle County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Lake County, Minnesota? (Lake County, MN Divorce Records)Lake County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota? (Lake of the Woods County, MN Divorce Records)Lake of the Woods County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Le Sueur County, Minnesota? (Le Sueur County, MN Divorce Records)Le Sueur County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Lincoln County, Minnesota? (Lincoln County, MN Divorce Records)Lincoln County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Lyon County, Minnesota? (Lyon County, MN Divorce Records)Lyon County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in McLeod County, Minnesota? (McLeod County, MN Divorce Records)McLeod County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Mahnomen County, Minnesota? (Mahnomen County, MN Divorce Records)Mahnomen County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Marshall County, Minnesota? (Marshall County, MN Divorce Records)Marshall County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Martin County, Minnesota? (Martin County, MN Divorce Records)Martin County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Meeker County, Minnesota? (Meeker County, MN Divorce Records)Meeker County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Mille Lacs County, Minnesota? (Mille Lacs County, MN Divorce Records)Mille Lacs County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Morrison County, Minnesota? (Morrison County, MN Divorce Records)Morrison County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Mower County, Minnesota? (Mower County, MN Divorce Records)Mower County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Murray County, Minnesota? (Murray County, MN Divorce Records)Murray County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Nicollet County, Minnesota? (Nicollet County, MN Divorce Records)Nicollet County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Nobles County, Minnesota? (Nobles County, MN Divorce Records)Nobles County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Norman County, Minnesota? (Norman County, MN Divorce Records)Norman County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Olmsted County, Minnesota? (Olmsted County, MN Divorce Records)Olmsted County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Otter Tail County, Minnesota? (Otter Tail County, MN Divorce Records)Otter Tail County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Pennington County, Minnesota? (Pennington County, MN Divorce Records)Pennington County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Pine County, Minnesota? (Pine County, MN Divorce Records)Pine County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Pipestone County, Minnesota? (Pipestone County, MN Divorce Records)Pipestone County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Polk County, Minnesota? (Polk County, MN Divorce Records)Polk County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Pope County, Minnesota? (Pope County, MN Divorce Records)Pope County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Ramsey County, Minnesota?(Ramsey County, MN Divorce Records)Ramsey County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Red Lake County, Minnesota? (Red Lake County, MN Divorce Records)Red Lake County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Redwood County, Minnesota? (Redwood County, MN Divorce Records)Redwood County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Renville County, Minnesota? (Renville County, MN Divorce Records)Renville County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Rice County, Minnesota? (Rice County, MN Divorce Records)Rice County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Rock County, Minnesota? (Rock County, MN Divorce Records)Rock County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Roseau County, Minnesota? (Roseau County, MN Divorce Records)Roseau County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Saint Louis County, Minnesota? (Saint Louis County, MN Divorce Records)St. Louis County District Clerk – Duluth
Are Divorce Records Public in Scott County, Minnesota? (Scott County, MN Divorce Records)Scott County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Sherburne County, Minnesota? (Sherburne County, MN Divorce Records)Sherburne County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Sibley County, Minnesota? (Sibley County, MN Divorce Records)Sibley County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Stearns County, Minnesota? (Stearns County, MN Divorce Records)Stearns County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Steele County, Minnesota? (Steele County, MN Divorce Records)Steele County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Stevens County, Minnesota? (Stevens County, MN Divorce Records)Stevens County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Swift County, Minnesota? (Swift County, MN Divorce Records)Swift County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Todd County, Minnesota? (Todd County, MN Divorce Records)Todd County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Traverse County, Minnesota? (Traverse County, MN Divorce Records)Traverse County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Wabasha County, Minnesota? (Wabasha County, MN Divorce Records)Wabasha County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Wadena County, Minnesota? (Wadena County, MN Divorce Records)Wadena County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Waseca County, Minnesota? (Waseca County, MN Divorce Records)Waseca County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Washington County, Minnesota? (Washington County, MN Divorce Records)Washington County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Watonwan County, Minnesota? (Watonwan County, MN Divorce Records)Watonwan County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Wilkin County, Minnesota? (Wilkin County, MN Divorce Records)Wilkin County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Winona County, Minnesota? (Winona County, MN Divorce Records)Winona County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Wright County, Minnesota? (Wright County, MN Divorce Records)Wright County District Clerk
Are Divorce Records Public in Yellow Medicine County, Minnesota? (Yellow Medicine County, MN Divorce Records)Yellow Medicine County District Clerk

*St. Louis county’s district court has administrative offices and chambered judges in three distinct locations.

What To Know About Divorce in Minnesota

While most people have a general understanding of what divorce is and what it entails, they may not realize that the exact process can vary considerably depending on where an individual lives.

Close up image of divorce title on paper

(Image: RDNE Stock project24)

Each state has its own marriage and divorce laws. The state of residence can impact the requirements for divorce, the court that handles the divorce, and how divorce records are filed and accessed. Suffice it to say, it is important for an individual to understand the ins and outs of the divorce process in their state.

In the state of Minnesota, the legal term for divorce is “dissolution of marriage,” indicating that the marriage bond has been dissolved or ended.2,5

To be eligible to file for an MN divorce, one spouse must have been residing in the state for at least the last six months, and the petitioner must file divorce papers with the Minnesota county of residence.5

Divorce cases are handled by the district courts of Minnesota. The proceedings can take many months from start to finish, usually between six months and two years to final judgment.5 The judge’s order which finalizes a divorce is called Judgment and Decree.2

Current Divorce Statistics in Minnesota

Though the overall divorce rate in the United States has hovered near the 50% mark for decades, recent years have witnessed this number gradually decline. What are the contributing factors? Though it’s impossible to say for sure, some trends that may impact the overall divorce rate include:

After exploring the question of “Are divorce records public in Minnesota?” take a look at some recent divorce statistics for the state.

Divorce rates in the Midwest region of the United States are some of the lowest across the nation on average, slightly higher than the Northeast region but lower than both the West and South.1 Minnesota is no exception as the state’s divorce rate is consistent with regional averages.

According to the United States Census Bureau’s 2020 data, approximately 10.2% of Minnesota residents were divorced at the time of data collection.21

Estimates of divorce and separations combined place Minnesota at an approximate rate of 11%.16

To see the percentage of divorced people per Minnesota county and major city, scan the tables below.

Divorce Rate By Minnesota County% Divorced*% Divorced/Separated16
Divorce Rate in Aitkin County, MN11.0%~13%
Divorce Rate in Anoka County, MN10.7%~12%
Divorce Rate in Becker County, MN10.6%~11%
Divorce Rate in Beltrami County, MN12.5%~13%
Divorce Rate in Benton County, MN12.4%~12%
Divorce Rate in Big Stone County, MN9.0%~9%
Divorce Rate in Blue Earth County, MN8.1%~8%
Divorce Rate in Brown County, MN9.7%~11%
Divorce Rate in Carlton County, MN12.5%~14%
Divorce Rate in Carver County, MN8.3%~9%
Divorce Rate in Cass County, MN11.8%~11%
Divorce Rate in Chippewa County, MN11.6%~11%
Divorce Rate in Chisago County, MN9.0%~11%
Divorce Rate in Clay County, MN8.6%~9%
Divorce Rate in Clearwater County, MN10.3%~12%
Divorce Rate in Cook County, MN11.3%~12%
Divorce Rate in Cottonwood County, MN10.3%~11%
Divorce Rate in Crow Wing County, MN11.5%~13%
Divorce Rate in Dakota County, MN10.2%~11%
Divorce Rate in Dodge County, MN9.2%~10%
Divorce Rate in Douglas County, MN8.9%~9%
Divorce Rate in Faribault County, MN10.8%~12%
Divorce Rate in Fillmore County, MN9.1%~10%
Divorce Rate in Freeborn County, MN11.2%~14%
Divorce Rate in Goodhue County, MN11.4%~13%
Divorce Rate in Grant County, MN11.2%~10%
Divorce Rate in Hennepin County, MN10.0%~11%
Divorce Rate in Houston County, MN10.1%~10%
Divorce Rate in Hubbard County, MN11.3%~12%
Divorce Rate in Isanti County, MN11.5%~13%
Divorce Rate in Itasca County, MN12.4%~12%
Divorce Rate in Jackson County, MN9.9%~11%
Divorce Rate in Kanabec County, MN11.9%~12%
Divorce Rate in Kandiyohi County, MN8.3%~10%
Divorce Rate in Kittson County, MN8.5%~11%
Divorce Rate in Koochiching County, MN12.5%~13%
Divorce Rate in Lac qui Parle County, MN8.0%~10%
Divorce Rate in Lake County, MN11.7%~13%
Divorce Rate in Lake of the Woods County, MN13.5%~11%
Divorce Rate in Le Sueur County, MN11.4%~11%
Divorce Rate in Lincoln County, MN9.1%~9%
Divorce Rate in Lyon County, MN10.0%~9%
Divorce Rate in McLeod County, MN12.2%~10%
Divorce Rate in Mahnomen County, MN11.7%~11%
Divorce Rate in Marshall County, MN9.4%~10%
Divorce Rate in Martin County, MN12.1%~12%
Divorce Rate in Meeker County, MN10.2%~10%
Divorce Rate in Mille Lacs County, MN14.3%~14%
Divorce Rate in Morrison County, MN9.6%~11%
Divorce Rate in Mower County, MN9.9%~12%
Divorce Rate in Murray County, MN9.4%~10%
Divorce Rate in Nicollet County, MN9.1%~9%
Divorce Rate in Nobles County, MN8.0%~8%
Divorce Rate in Norman County, MN10.4%~11%
Divorce Rate in Olmsted County, MN8.9%~11%
Divorce Rate in Otter Tail County, MN10.5%~10%
Divorce Rate in Pennington County, MN10.7%~12%
Divorce Rate in Pine County, MN15.0%~16%
Divorce Rate in Pipestone County, MN11.6%~11%
Divorce Rate in Polk County, MN10.5%~10%
Divorce Rate in Pope County, MN10.0%~11%
Divorce Rate in Ramsey County, MN10.5%~12%
Divorce Rate in Red Lake County, MN10.9%~12%
Divorce Rate in Redwood County, MN8.9%~12%
Divorce Rate in Renville County, MN10.8%~10%
Divorce Rate in Rice County, MN9.4%~11%
Divorce Rate in Rock County, MN8.6%~10%
Divorce Rate in Roseau County, MN10.7%~10%
Divorce Rate in Saint Louis County, MN12.3%~13%
Divorce Rate in Scott County, MN9.1%~9%
Divorce Rate in Sherburne County, MN9.9%~11%
Divorce Rate in Sibley County, MN8.1%~8%
Divorce Rate in Stearns County, MN9.0%~9%
Divorce Rate in Steele County, MN9.1%~12%
Divorce Rate in Stevens County, MN4.5%~7%
Divorce Rate in Swift County, MN11.3%~9%
Divorce Rate in Todd County, MN10.6%~11%
Divorce Rate in Traverse County, MN9.4%~9%
Divorce Rate in Wabasha County, MN11.5%~10%
Divorce Rate in Wadena County, MN12.6%~15%
Divorce Rate in Waseca County, MN10.2%~11%
Divorce Rate in Washington County, MN9.4%~11%
Divorce Rate in Watonwan County, MN7.3%~11%
Divorce Rate in Wilkin County, MN12.2%~13%
Divorce Rate in Winona County, MN9.9%~9%
Divorce Rate in Wright County, MN10.1%~10%
Divorce Rate in Yellow Medicine County, MN9.4%~9%

* Estimates from 2020 census data.

The following table looks at the divorce rate for the eight most populous cities in the state of Minnesota.

Divorce Rate By Minnesota City% Divorced*% Divorced/Separated16
Divorce Rate in Minneapolis10.0%~11%
Divorce Rate in St. Paul10.6%~13%
Divorce Rate in Rochester9.0%~12%
Divorce Rate in Bloomington11.0%~13%
Divorce Rate in Brooklyn Park8.8%~11%
Divorce Rate in Duluth11.6%~12%
Divorce Rate in Plymouth8.8%~10%
Divorce Rate in Woodbury8.0%~10%

* Estimates from 2020 census data.

What to Do When Filing for Divorce in Minnesota

Filing for divorce in any state is a major life stressor, but the state of Minnesota provides excellent online resources for individuals initiating a divorce process.

Minnesota has an online system called Minnesota Guide & File which takes individuals through each step of the divorce filing process, from identifying the type of divorce and correct forms to use to completing the forms and filing them accordingly.17

Close up image of a divorce form

(Image: RDNE Stock project25)

To file for divorce in Minnesota, follow these steps:

Step 1: Follow the link to Minnesota Guide & File and click “Start Guide & File” from the side menu.

Step 2: Select “Starting a Divorce in MN” from the main menu.

Step 3: Follow instructions to complete several interviews to determine the type of filing.

Step 4: Print and submit the required documents.

Note that interview progress can be saved at any time by creating a log-in. Divorce complaints can be eFiled in cases of joint filing, but must be filed with the district clerk for other divorce types.8

The Minnesota statewide filing fee is $365, but additional fees may apply in various counties.13 All divorce forms aside from the initial filing forms, are available on the Minnesota Courts Divorce Page.5 Divorce applications or complaints are accessed through Minnesota Guide & File and can be submitted either online or in person at the district court.8,17

View the table below for each county’s district court link.

Where Do I Submit My Divorce Application in Each Minnesota County?Minnesota County District Courts
Where Do I Submit My Aitkin County Divorce Application?Aitkin County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Anoka County Divorce Application?Anoka County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Becker County Divorce Application?Becker County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Beltrami County Divorce Application?Beltrami County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Benton County Divorce Application?Benton County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Big Stone County Divorce Application?Big Stone County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Blue Earth County Divorce Application?Blue Earth County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Brown County Divorce Application?Brown County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Carlton County Divorce Application?Carlton County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Carver County Divorce Application?Carver County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Cass County Divorce Application?Cass County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Chippewa County Divorce Application?Chippewa County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Chisago County Divorce Application?Chisago County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Clay County Divorce Application?Clay County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Clearwater County Divorce Application?Clearwater County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Cook County Divorce Application?Cook County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Cottonwood County Divorce Application?Cottonwood County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Crow Wing County Divorce Application?Crow Wing County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Dakota County Divorce Application?Dakota County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Dodge County Divorce Application?Dodge County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Douglas County Divorce Application?Douglas County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Faribault County Divorce Application?Faribault County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Fillmore County Divorce Application?Fillmore County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Freeborn County Divorce Application?Freeborn County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Goodhue County Divorce Application?Goodhue County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Grant County Divorce Application?Grant County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Hennepin County Divorce Application?Hennepin County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Houston County Divorce Application?Houston County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Hubbard County Divorce Application?Hubbard County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Isanti County Divorce Application?Isanti County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Itasca County Divorce Application?Itasca County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Jackson County Divorce Application?Jackson County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Kanabec County Divorce Application?Kanabec County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Kandiyohi County Divorce Application?Kandiyohi County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Kittson County Divorce Application?Kittson County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Koochiching County Divorce Application?Koochiching County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Lac qui Parle County Divorce Application?Lac qui Parle County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Lake County Divorce Application?Lake County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Lake of the Woods County Divorce Application?Lake of the Woods County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Le Sueur County Divorce Application?Le Sueur County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Lincoln County Divorce Application?Lincoln County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Lyon County Divorce Application?Lyon County District Court
Where Do I Submit My McLeod County Divorce Application?McLeod County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Mahnomen County Divorce Application?Mahnomen County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Marshall County Divorce Application?Marshall County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Martin County Divorce Application?Martin County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Meeker County Divorce Application?Meeker County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Mille Lacs County Divorce Application?Mille Lacs County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Morrison County Divorce Application?Morrison County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Mower County Divorce Application?Mower County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Murray County Divorce Application?Murray County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Nicollet County Divorce Application?Nicollet County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Nobles County Divorce Application?Nobles County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Norman County Divorce Application?Norman County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Olmsted County Divorce Application?Olmsted County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Otter Tail County Divorce Application?Otter Tail County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Pennington County Divorce Application?Pennington County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Pine County Divorce Application?Pine County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Pipestone County Divorce Application?Pipestone County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Polk County Divorce Application?Polk County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Pope County Divorce Application?Pope County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Ramsey County Divorce Application?Ramsey County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Red Lake County Divorce Application?Red Lake County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Redwood County Divorce Application?Redwood County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Renville County Divorce Application?Renville County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Rice County Divorce Application?Rice County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Rock County Divorce Application?Rock County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Roseau County Divorce Application?Roseau County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Saint Louis County Divorce Application?St. Louis County District Court – Duluth
Where Do I Submit My Scott County Divorce Application?Scott County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Sherburne County Divorce Application?Sherburne County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Sibley County Divorce Application?Sibley County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Stearns County Divorce Application?Stearns County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Steele County Divorce Application?Steele County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Stevens County Divorce Application?Stevens County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Swift County Divorce Application?Swift County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Todd County Divorce Application?Todd County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Traverse County Divorce Application?Traverse County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Wabasha County Divorce Application?Wabasha County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Wadena County Divorce Application?Wadena County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Waseca County Divorce Application?Waseca County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Washington County Divorce Application?Washington County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Watonwan County Divorce Application?Watonwan County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Wilkin County Divorce Application?Wilkin County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Winona County Divorce Application?Winona County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Wright County Divorce Application?Wright County District Court
Where Do I Submit My Yellow Medicine County Divorce Application?Yellow Medicine County District Court

How To Find Out if Someone Filed for Divorce in Minnesota

The divorce process generally necessitates the knowledge and participation of both parties, and the law requires that the petitioning party have the divorce papers served to the spouse (In some cases where the spouse cannot be located or contacted, the divorce may proceed with one party.). Thus, in most situations, the non-petitioning party will receive a divorce summons.3

However, there is a window of allottable time between the filing of a divorce and when the papers must be served, and so a spouse may not know immediately and could be caught unawares. If a quick internet search using the spouse’s full name and “divorce” does not uncover any useful information, interested individuals should check with the county or district clerk in the area of residence. The county clerk should have divorce complaints and other paperwork on file.

Note that there is often a charge for physical copies.3

After addressing the question of “Are divorce records public in Minnesota?,” it is useful to explore other county records and resources which may be available to interested parties.

Find links to services and various records listed by county in the following tables.

Persons seeking comprehensive information on Minnesota background check or criminal record searches have several resources at their disposal, including the district clerk, county sheriff’s office, and superior court of the county.

Many Minnesota residents live in one of the following cities that boast the highest populations in the state: Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Duluth, Plymouth, and Woodbury. The following tables provide links to relevant city or county resources for each of these cities.

Anyone who has endured the rocky road to and through a divorce knows that there is no such thing as being “too prepared,” and knowing how to access divorce records is crucial! Understanding the laws and divorce process in the state of residence is only half of the picture, and knowing where to find and how to use valuable government resources is the other half.

The answer to the question “Are divorce records public in Minnesota?” is easy, they are, and this guide explains everything needed to find Minnesota divorce records for free.

Frequently Asked Questions About Are Divorce Records Public in Minnesota

Is There a Difference Between Minnesota Marriage Records and Minnesota Marriage License Records?

A marriage license is a document which is granted by the county clerk to couples who wish to be married, certifying that the marriage is legal. After a couple is legally married, a marriage certificate is issued to certify that the marriage was legally conducted. The marriage certificate is the document which most people are referring to when inquiring about marriage records.

Where Can I Get My MN Marriage Records?

Minnesota marriage records are a matter of public record, and there are multiple avenues for individuals who wish to view or obtain a copy of their marriage records. Marriage certificate copies can be obtained from the county recorder’s office in the Minnesota county where the marriage was conducted.10 Additionally, most counties’ marriage records are searchable via the Minnesota Official Marriage System (MOMS).22 Some counties do offer additional means of ordering marriage records. For example, in Anoka County, a marriage certificate can be ordered by mail through the Government Center Vital Statistics Office.23

How Do I Find Minnesota Marriage Records Before 1958?

It is possible to find older marriage records in the state of Minnesota. Many historical marriage records are still held by the county courts and are accessible via the Minnesota Official Marriage System. MOMS stores records dating back as far as the mid-1800s for many counties.22 Some older records may be available for purchase through Minnesota’s historical society, as well.11

Do Minnesota Public Records Include MN Court Records?

Most court records in Minnesota are part of the public record, meaning that the public should have open access to case information. There are some restrictions where juveniles are involved or in cases of abuse, but generally court records are considered public record.4

Can I Get Minnesota Divorce Records Online Free?

Minnesota has several free access points for individuals wishing to view divorce information, including Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO), Minnesota Public Access (MPA) Remote, and Minnesota Public Access (MPA) Courthouse.4 However, though these databases are currently free to use and view documents, it is not possible to get official copies of records via these routes. Additionally, note that MPA remote only provides access to unofficial court information. Certified copies of divorce records obtained from the district clerk will almost always come at a fee


References

1Allred, C. (2019). Divorce Rate in the U.S.” Geographic Variation, 2018. BGSU. Retrieved September 5, 2022 <https://www.bgsu.edu/ncfmr/resources/data/family-profiles/allred-divorce-rate-geo-var-2018-fp-19-23.html>

2Education For Justice. (2021). Getting a Divorce: A Basic Guide to Minnesota Law. LawHelpMN.org. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from <https://www.lawhelpmn.org/self-help-library/booklet/getting-divorce-basic-guide-minnesota-law>

3Goldberg Jones. (2021, August 5). How Can You Find Out if Your Spouse Filed For Divorce? Goldberg Jones Divorce For Men. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from <https://www.goldbergjones-sandiego.com/divorce/how-can-i-find-out-if-my-wife-filed-for-divorce/>

4Minnesota Courts. (2022). Access Case Records. Minnesota Judicial Branch. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from <https://www.mncourts.gov/access-case-records.aspx>

5Minnesota Courts. (2022). Divorce/Dissolution. Minnesota Judicial Branch. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from <https://www.mncourts.gov/Help-Topics/Divorce.aspx>

6Minnesota Courts. (2022). Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – MPA Courthouse. Minnesota Judicial Branch. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from <https://www.mncourts.gov/Access-Case-Records/MPA-Courthouse-FAQs.aspx>

7Minnesota Courts. (2022). How to Search MPA Remote. Minnesota Judicial Branch. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from <https://www.mncourts.gov/Access-Case-Records/How-to-search-MPA-remote.aspx>

8Minnesota Courts. (2022). Minnesota Guide & File. Minnesota Judicial Branch. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from <https://www.mncourts.gov/Help-Topics/Guide-and-File.aspx>

9Minnesota Courts. (2022). Records Center (Hennepin). Minnesota Judicial Branch. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from <https://www.mncourts.gov/Find-Courts/Hennepin/Records-Center-Hennepin.aspx>

10Minnesota Department of Health. (2022). County Vital Records Office Contacts. Minnesota Department of Health. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from <https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/vitalrecords/registrars.html>

11Minnesota Historical Society. (2022). Research Services. MNHS Shop. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from <https://shop.mnhs.org/collections/research-services>

12Nolo. (2022). Are Divorce Records Public? Divorce Net. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from <https://www.divorcenet.com/resources/are-divorce-records-public.html>

13Pandolfi, J. (2022). How Do I File For Divorce In Minnesota? DivorceNet. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from <https://www.divorcenet.com/resources/filing-for-divorce/minnesota.htm>

14Ramsey County. (2022). Divorce Records. Ramsey County. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from <https://www.ramseycounty.us/residents/licenses-permits-records/divorce-records>

15staterecords.org. (2022). Are Minnesota Vital Records Open to the Public? Minnesota Vital Records. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from <https://minnesota.staterecords.org/vital.php>

16Statistical Atlas. (2022). Overview of Minnesota. Statistical Atlas. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from <https://statisticalatlas.com/state/Minnesota/Overview>

17Tyler Technologies, Inc. (2022). Minnesota Guide & File. Odyssey Guide & File. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from <https://minnesota.tylerhost.net/SRL/SRL>

18Office of the Revisor of Statutes. (2022). 2021 Minnesota Statutes. Government Records. Retrieved September 17, 2022, from <https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/138.17>

19Minnesota Courts. (2022). Access Case Records (MPA Remote). Minnesota Public Access (MPA) Remote. Retrieved September 27, 2022, from <https://www.mncourts.gov/Access-Case-Records/MPA-Remote.aspx>

20Minnesota Courts. (2022). Access Case Records (MCRO). Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO). Retrieved September 27, 2022, from <https://www.mncourts.gov/Access-Case-Records/MCRO.aspx>

21United States Census Bureau. (2022). Data Census. Minnesota Data Census. Retrieved September 27, 2022, from <https://data.census.gov/cedsci/profile?g=0400000US27>

22Minnesota Official Marriage System. (2022). MOMS Homepage. Marriage Records. Retrieved September 27, 2022, from <https://moms.mn.gov/>

23Anoka County. (2022). Marriage Certificates. Vital Records – Marriage Certificates. Retrieved September 27, 2022, from <https://www.anokacountymn.gov/241/Marriage-Certificates>

24Photo by RDNE Stock project. Cropped, Resized, Changed Format. Pexels. Retrieved June 14, 2024, from <https://www.pexels.com/photo/black-pen-on-white-printer-paper-7841412/>

25Photo by RDNE Stock project. Cropped, Resized, Changed Format. Pexels. Retrieved June 14, 2024, from <https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-printer-paper-on-brown-wooden-table-7841834/>

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it