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Craven County Divorce Records

What Are Craven County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Craven County are official legal documents that provide evidence of the dissolution of a marriage within the jurisdiction. These records are maintained pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes § 50-10, which governs divorce proceedings in the state. The records typically consist of multiple documents filed throughout the divorce process with the Craven County Clerk of Superior Court.

Divorce records serve several important functions:

  • Legal proof of marital status change
  • Documentation required for remarriage
  • Evidence for name change proceedings
  • Verification for Social Security benefits
  • Supporting documentation for loan applications
  • Required evidence for immigration matters
  • Historical and genealogical research

The North Carolina Judicial Branch maintains these records as part of its official court documentation system. Divorce records in Craven County are categorized as both vital records and court records, with different components maintained by different government entities depending on the specific document type and date of filing.

Are Craven County Divorce Records Public?

Craven County divorce records have a complex public access status that varies by document type. Under the North Carolina Public Records Law § 132-1, most court records, including divorce case files, are generally considered public records. However, certain components may be restricted based on privacy considerations and state regulations.

The public accessibility of divorce records in Craven County is structured as follows:

  • Court divorce case files: Generally accessible to the public through the Craven County Clerk of Superior Court. These include petitions, decrees, property settlements, and other filed documents. However, certain sensitive information may be redacted or sealed by court order.

  • Certified divorce certificates: Access is more restricted. According to North Carolina Vital Records, these documents are available only to:

    • The parties named in the divorce
    • Legal representatives with proper authorization
    • Individuals with a court order authorizing access
    • Individuals with a documented legitimate interest

Certain components of divorce records may be sealed or redacted when they contain:

  • Information about minor children
  • Financial details and account numbers
  • Social Security numbers
  • Allegations of domestic violence
  • Medical or mental health information

Members of the public seeking divorce records should be aware that while basic information about a divorce may be publicly accessible, detailed personal information is often protected under privacy provisions of North Carolina law.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Craven County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in Craven County have multiple options for locating these documents. The appropriate method depends on the specific information needed and the purpose of the request.

For divorce case files and court documents:

  1. Contact the Craven County Clerk of Superior Court office directly:

Craven County Clerk of Superior Court
302 Broad Street
New Bern, NC 28560
(252) 639-3000
Craven County Clerk of Court

  1. Provide the following information when requesting records:

    • Full names of both parties to the divorce
    • Approximate date of divorce filing or finalization
    • Case number (if known)
    • Your relationship to the case (if requesting certified copies)

  2. Pay applicable fees:

    • Search fees: $0-$10 (varies based on search complexity)
    • Copy fees: $0.25-$2.00 per page
    • Certified copy fees: $5-$10 per document

For divorce certificates (verification of divorce):

  1. Contact the North Carolina Vital Records office:

North Carolina Vital Records
1903 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1903
(919) 733-3000
NC Vital Records

  1. Submit a completed application form with:

    • Full names of both parties
    • Date of divorce
    • County where divorce was granted
    • Your relationship to the named parties
    • Valid identification

  2. Pay the required fee (currently $24 for a search and first certificate copy).

Requests may be submitted in person, by mail, or through authorized third-party vendors depending on the specific document needed and urgency of the request.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Craven County Online?

Craven County residents and other authorized individuals can access certain divorce records online through several digital platforms maintained by North Carolina government agencies. The online accessibility of these records is governed by North Carolina General Statutes § 7A-109, which establishes parameters for electronic access to court records.

The primary online resources for accessing Craven County divorce records include:

  1. North Carolina Judicial Branch Court Records Search

    • Visit the North Carolina Court Records Online portal
    • Select "Civil Case Records Search"
    • Enter search criteria (names, case numbers, or date ranges)
    • Filter results by selecting "Divorce" under case types
    • Note that only basic case information is available; full documents typically require in-person requests

  2. North Carolina Automated Criminal/Infractions System (ACIS)

    • This system primarily contains criminal records but may reference related civil matters
    • Limited public access is available through courthouse terminals
    • Some information may be accessible through the North Carolina Court System website

  3. Craven County Register of Deeds Online Services

    • While the Register of Deeds primarily maintains property records, some historical divorce records may be indexed here
    • Search capabilities are limited for divorce-specific documents

Users should be aware of several important limitations when searching for divorce records online:

  • Complete divorce case files are rarely available in full digital format
  • Sensitive personal information is typically redacted from online records
  • Records prior to certain dates may not be digitized
  • Official certified copies cannot be obtained through online systems
  • User fees may apply for certain searches or document views

For comprehensive divorce record searches, combining online preliminary research with in-person follow-up at the Craven County Courthouse often yields the most complete results.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Craven County?

Members of the public seeking no-cost access to divorce records in Craven County have limited but viable options. While most official copies and certified documents require payment of statutory fees, certain research methods allow for free examination of basic divorce record information.

The following free access options are currently available:

  1. In-Person Courthouse Research
    • Visit the Craven County Courthouse during regular business hours
    • Use public access terminals to search case indexes
    • Review non-sealed case files in the clerk's office
    • Take notes on case information (though copying fees will apply)

Craven County Courthouse
302 Broad Street
New Bern, NC 28560
(252) 639-3000
Craven County Courts

  1. Public Library Resources
    • The New Bern-Craven County Public Library offers:
      • Free internet access for online case searches
      • Microfilm archives of historical newspapers with divorce announcements
      • Genealogical research materials that may reference divorces

New Bern-Craven County Public Library
400 Johnson Street
New Bern, NC 28560
(252) 638-7800
New Bern-Craven County Public Library

  1. Limited Online Searches
    • Basic case information can be viewed without charge through the North Carolina Court System website
    • Search results show case existence, parties, and status, but not document contents

Researchers should note important limitations to free access:

  • Staff assistance for extensive searches may be limited
  • Viewing is free, but obtaining copies incurs statutory fees
  • Records with confidentiality orders are not accessible
  • Older records may require specialized knowledge to locate
  • Free access methods typically do not provide certified documents

For individuals requiring only basic verification that a divorce occurred, these free methods may be sufficient. However, those needing official documentation for legal purposes will need to pay the applicable fees for certified copies.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Craven County

Divorce records in Craven County comprise multiple document types that collectively document the legal dissolution of marriage. The content and format of these records are governed by North Carolina General Statutes § 50-21 and related family law provisions. Understanding the components of these records is essential for individuals seeking specific information.

A complete divorce file typically contains the following documents:

  1. Complaint/Petition for Divorce

    • Names and addresses of both parties
    • Date and location of marriage
    • Grounds for divorce (typically separation for one year in North Carolina)
    • Residency information establishing jurisdiction
    • Prayer for relief (specific requests to the court)

  2. Summons

    • Official notice to the responding party
    • Information about legal deadlines for response
    • Court identifiers and case number

  3. Answer and Counterclaims (if filed)

    • Responding party's formal reply to divorce petition
    • Any counter-allegations or additional claims

  4. Financial Affidavits

    • Sworn statements detailing assets, debts, income, and expenses
    • Supporting documentation for property division claims
    • Tax returns and financial account information

  5. Separation Agreements (if applicable)

    • Negotiated terms for property division
    • Spousal support arrangements
    • Child custody and support provisions
    • Other mutually agreed terms

  6. Judgment/Decree of Divorce

    • Official court order terminating the marriage
    • Judicial findings of fact and conclusions of law
    • Final determinations on all contested issues
    • Judge's signature and date of divorce finalization

  7. Certificate of Divorce

    • Statistical record filed with North Carolina Vital Records
    • Contains basic information about the parties and divorce date
    • Used for verification purposes rather than detailed information

  8. Additional Orders (as applicable)

    • Child custody determinations
    • Child support calculations and payment orders
    • Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) for retirement accounts
    • Name change orders
    • Restraining orders or protective provisions

The level of detail in divorce records varies significantly based on whether the divorce was contested or uncontested, whether minor children were involved, and the complexity of property division issues. Records from recent decades tend to be more comprehensive than historical divorce records.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Craven County?

Individuals requiring legal proof of divorce in Craven County have several options for obtaining official documentation. The appropriate method depends on the level of detail needed and the purpose for which the proof will be used.

For official proof of divorce, the following methods are available:

  1. Certified Copy of Divorce Decree
    • Visit or contact the Craven County Clerk of Superior Court
    • Provide the case number or names and approximate date of divorce
    • Present identification and establish legal right to access (if not a party to the case)
    • Pay the certification fee (currently $10 per document)
    • This document provides comprehensive proof with all terms of the divorce

Craven County Clerk of Superior Court
302 Broad Street
New Bern, NC 28560
(252) 639-3000
Craven County Courts

  1. Certificate of Divorce (Verification)
    • Request from North Carolina Vital Records
    • Complete the application form with required information
    • Provide identification and establish eligibility to receive the record
    • Pay the required fee (currently $24)
    • This document verifies the fact and date of divorce but contains limited details

North Carolina Vital Records
1903 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1903
(919) 733-3000
NC Vital Records

  1. Divorce Record Search Letter
    • Request a verification letter from the Clerk of Court
    • Provide names, approximate date, and purpose of request
    • Pay applicable search and letter preparation fees
    • Receive an official letter confirming the divorce record exists

The appropriate proof document depends on specific needs:

  • For remarriage: A Certificate of Divorce is typically sufficient
  • For legal name changes: The Divorce Decree is usually required
  • For immigration purposes: Certified copies of the complete Decree are generally necessary
  • For financial matters: Specific portions of the Decree may be needed

Requestors should specify whether they need the entire divorce file or only specific documents, as fees are assessed per document rather than per case. Expedited processing may be available for urgent needs for an additional fee.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Craven County?

While divorce proceedings in Craven County are generally matters of public record under North Carolina General Statutes § 132-1, certain provisions exist that allow for confidentiality in specific circumstances. The courts balance the public's right to access judicial records with legitimate privacy concerns of the parties involved.

The following aspects of divorce cases may be subject to confidentiality protections:

  1. Sealed Records by Court Order

    • Parties may petition the court to seal all or portions of a divorce file
    • Judges evaluate requests based on compelling privacy interests
    • Common grounds include protection from domestic violence, sensitive financial information, or matters affecting children
    • Orders must specify which documents are sealed and the duration of confidentiality

  2. Automatically Protected Information

    • Social Security numbers
    • Financial account numbers
    • Names and identifying information of minor children
    • Medical and mental health records
    • Victim information in cases involving domestic violence
    • These details are typically redacted even in otherwise public files

  3. Alternative Dispute Resolution Records

  4. Domestic Violence Protections

    • Address confidentiality for victims
    • Sealing of allegations and evidence of abuse
    • Protective orders may include confidentiality provisions

Parties seeking confidentiality for divorce proceedings must:

  1. File a formal motion with the Craven County Clerk of Superior Court
  2. Demonstrate specific, articulable reasons why public access would cause harm
  3. Request the least restrictive means to protect sensitive information
  4. Obtain a judicial order specifying exactly what information is protected

It is important to note that complete confidentiality of an entire divorce case is rare and generally not supported by North Carolina law. Most commonly, specific sensitive documents or information within the case file are protected while basic case information remains public. Even when records are sealed, they remain accessible to the parties, their attorneys, and court personnel.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Craven County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Craven County varies significantly based on multiple factors related to case complexity, court caseloads, and the level of cooperation between parties. Under North Carolina law, specifically General Statutes § 50-6, a one-year separation period is required before filing for absolute divorce, which establishes the minimum timeline for most cases.

Typical timeframes for Craven County divorces include:

  1. Uncontested Divorces (Simplest Cases)

    • Minimum processing time: 45-60 days after filing
    • Total time including separation period: 13-14 months
    • Key factors affecting timeline:
      • Accuracy and completeness of paperwork
      • Court scheduling availability
      • Statutory waiting periods

  2. Contested Divorces (Complex Cases)

    • Average processing time: 6-18 months after filing
    • Total time including separation period: 18-30 months
    • Timeline extensions due to:
      • Discovery processes and financial disclosures
      • Multiple court hearings
      • Expert witness involvement
      • Property valuation disputes
      • Child custody evaluations

  3. Divorces Involving Minor Children

    • Additional time requirements for:
      • Mandatory parenting education classes
      • Custody mediation programs
      • Development of parenting plans
      • These requirements typically add 2-3 months to the process

According to the North Carolina Judicial Branch, current caseload statistics for Craven County show that approximately 65% of divorce cases are resolved within 6 months of filing, while more complex cases may extend beyond one year of active litigation.

Factors that commonly extend divorce timelines include:

  • Disputes over complex asset division
  • Business valuation requirements
  • Retirement account division (requiring QDROs)
  • Contested child custody arrangements
  • Allegations requiring investigation (e.g., substance abuse, domestic violence)
  • Court calendar congestion
  • Attorney scheduling conflicts
  • Attempts at reconciliation

Parties seeking to minimize the duration of divorce proceedings are advised to prepare documentation thoroughly, consider mediation or collaborative divorce approaches, and maintain clear communication with legal counsel regarding timeline expectations.

How Long Does Craven County Keep Divorce Records?

Craven County maintains divorce records according to North Carolina's records retention schedules, which are established under General Statutes § 121-5 and administered by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. These schedules establish different retention periods based on record type, historical significance, and legal requirements.

The retention periods for various divorce-related records are as follows:

  1. Court Case Files (Divorce Proceedings)

    • Permanent retention for:
      • Final divorce decrees
      • Judgments affecting property rights
      • Orders establishing child custody
    • These records are maintained indefinitely by the Craven County Clerk of Superior Court

  2. Divorce Certificates

    • Permanent retention by North Carolina Vital Records
    • Certificates from 1958 to present are centrally maintained
    • Earlier records may be available only at the county level

  3. Supporting Documentation

    • Financial affidavits: 5-10 years after case closure
    • Temporary orders: 3 years after case closure
    • Guardian ad litem reports: 3 years after involved minors reach majority
    • Discovery materials: 1-3 years after case closure

  4. Electronic Records

    • Case management system entries: Permanent
    • Scanned documents: Follow same schedule as paper originals
    • Digital recordings of hearings: 10 years minimum

Records may transition between storage formats over time:

  • Active records (recent cases): Maintained in paper format at the courthouse
  • Semi-active records (older cases): May be stored in county archives
  • Historical records: May be transferred to the State Archives of North Carolina
  • Microfilmed/digitized records: Created for preservation and access purposes

It is important to note that while the official retention schedule establishes minimum periods, many divorce records are maintained permanently due to their legal significance and potential impact on property rights, inheritance, and family relationships across generations. Even when physical documents are eventually destroyed according to schedule, basic index information about the case is typically preserved permanently.

How To Get a Divorce In Craven County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Craven County must follow specific procedures established under North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 50. The process involves multiple steps and varies depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested.

The standard procedure for obtaining a divorce in Craven County is as follows:

  1. Meet Residency Requirements

    • At least one spouse must have been a North Carolina resident for six months prior to filing
    • The divorce may be filed in Craven County if either spouse resides there

  2. Complete the Separation Period

    • North Carolina requires a one-year separation period before filing
    • Spouses must live separately with the intention that the separation be permanent
    • The separation period must be complete before filing the divorce complaint

  3. Prepare and File Required Documents

    • Complaint for Absolute Divorce
    • Civil Summons
    • Domestic Civil Action Cover Sheet
    • Servicemembers Civil Relief Act Affidavit
    • Filing fee payment (currently $225)

    These documents must be filed with:

Craven County Clerk of Superior Court
302 Broad Street
New Bern, NC 28560
(252) 639-3000
Craven County Courts

  1. Serve the Divorce Papers

    • The non-filing spouse must be legally served with the divorce papers
    • Service methods include:
      • Sheriff's service (fee approximately $30)
      • Certified mail with return receipt
      • Acceptance of service by the other spouse
      • Publication (in limited circumstances)

  2. Wait for Response Period

    • The non-filing spouse has 30 days to respond (extended to 60 days if served out of state)
    • If no response is filed, the case may proceed as uncontested

  3. Request Hearing Date

    • File a Notice of Hearing with the court
    • Coordinate with the court calendar for available dates
    • Notify the other party of the hearing date

  4. Attend the Divorce Hearing

    • Present testimony establishing grounds for divorce
    • Submit proposed Judgment for Absolute Divorce
    • Judge reviews and signs the judgment if requirements are met

  5. Obtain Certified Copies

    • Request certified copies of the divorce judgment
    • Pay certification fees (approximately $10 per copy)

Additional considerations may include:

  • Property division (equitable distribution)
  • Alimony determinations
  • Child custody and support arrangements
  • Name change requests

Individuals with complex situations are advised to consult with a family law attorney. Those with simple, uncontested divorces may be able to utilize self-help resources available through the North Carolina Judicial Branch.

How To Get Divorce Papers In Craven County

Individuals initiating divorce proceedings in Craven County have several options for obtaining the necessary legal forms and documents. The availability of these documents is governed by North Carolina General Statutes § 7A-98, which provides for public access to court forms.

The following methods are available for obtaining divorce papers:

  1. Craven County Courthouse
    • Visit the Clerk of Superior Court's office in person
    • Request divorce packet forms from the civil division
    • Staff can provide basic procedural information but not legal advice

Craven County Clerk of Superior Court
302 Broad Street
New Bern, NC 28560
(252) 639-3000
Craven County Courts

  1. North Carolina Judicial Branch Website

    • Access standardized divorce forms through the North Carolina Court System website
    • Download and print forms at no cost
    • Available forms include:
      • Complaint for Absolute Divorce
      • Civil Summons
      • Domestic Civil Action Cover Sheet
      • Judgment of Absolute Divorce
      • Servicemembers Civil Relief Act Affidavit

  2. Self-Help Centers

    • Visit the courthouse self-help center during operating hours
    • Access computers with internet and printing capabilities
    • Obtain guidance on form completion from non-attorney staff

  3. Legal Aid of North Carolina

    • Income-eligible individuals may qualify for assistance
    • Services include form provision and completion guidance
    • Contact the local office for eligibility determination:

Legal Aid of North Carolina - New Bern Office
607 Broad Street
New Bern, NC 28560
(252) 637-9502
Legal Aid of North Carolina

  1. Private Attorneys
    • Retain a family law attorney who will prepare all required documents
    • Attorney fees vary based on complexity and services provided
    • The North Carolina Bar Association offers referral services

Required forms typically include:

  • Complaint for Absolute Divorce
  • Civil Summons (AOC-CV-100)
  • Domestic Civil Action Cover Sheet (AOC-CV-750)
  • Certificate of Absolute Divorce (DHHS form)
  • Judgment for Absolute Divorce (AOC-CV-400)
  • Servicemembers Civil Relief Act Affidavit (AOC-G-250)

Additional forms may be required for cases involving:

  • Child custody and support
  • Property division
  • Alimony requests
  • Name change requests

Individuals should ensure they have the most current versions of all forms, as requirements and formatting may change periodically based on court rule updates and statutory amendments.

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