How to Find Divorce Records in the UK
Divorce records can offer invaluable insights into family histories and the circumstances surrounding marriage breakdowns. However, navigating the process to obtain these records in the United Kingdom can sometimes be challenging. This guide explains the steps for finding divorce records, whether you’re researching your own or delving into historical files.
Understanding UK Divorce Records
The Court for Divorce and Matrimonial Causes was established in London in 1858, marking the start of modern divorce records. These materials can include case files, Law Reports, and historical newspaper coverage. For example, Ancestry’s database provides access to divorce files from 1858 to 1918, revealing details such as marriage dates, children, and grounds for divorce. Investigating these records not only uncovers family histories but also offers a glimpse into broader social changes across time.
Finding Divorce Records When the Court Is Unknown
If you are unsure which court handled your divorce, you can contact the Central Family Court. Complete Form D440 and send it to the address indicated on the form. The court will search for the final order on your behalf, charging a fee of £65 for each decade searched. Although this option may be slightly more expensive, it is a useful approach when you do not know which court issued the final order.
Can I Search for My Divorce Records Online?
Due to privacy and confidentiality safeguards (often referred to as the “100-Year Rule”), only a limited number of divorce records are accessible online. Resources worth exploring include:
- Divorce case files for England and Wales, 1858–1916 (fees may apply)
- The Times Archive for noteworthy divorce cases, 1785–1985 (fees may apply)
- The UK Government’s Legislation website to browse Divorces by private Acts of Parliament before 1858
Additional Resources and Considerations
Beyond these methods, other potential sources include the Parliamentary Archives and historical newspapers, which can contain detailed accounts of divorces from different eras. However, more recent documents are generally subject to the 100-Year Rule, limiting access in order to protect individuals’ privacy.
Need Expert Help? Contact HM & Co. Solicitors
If you are searching for divorce records and need professional guidance, HM & Co. Solicitors can assist. Whether you are researching historical records or need assistance obtaining documents for legal purposes, our experienced team can help streamline the process.
HM & Co. Solicitors
186 Lower Road
Surrey Quays
London SE16 2UN
Telephone: 02071128180
Email: info@hmsolicitorsltd.com
We are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of family law and providing practical advice for all your legal needs.
Services
Our Divorce Services
Divorce lawyers & divorce solicitors
Book Appointment Divorce Lawyers & Divorce Solicitors What is Divorce Law? Divorce law governs the legal process of ending a marriage by filing an application in court. Once the marriage…
Civil Partnership Dissolution
Book Appointment Fixed-Fee Divorce Solicitors at Your Service Fixed-Fee Divorce Solicitors at HM & Co. Solicitors If you’re considering a fixed-fee divorce, our team at HM & Co. Solicitors can…
Fixed Fee Divorce
Book Appointment Fixed-Fee Divorce Solicitors at HM & Co. Solicitors If you’re considering a fixed-fee divorce, our team at HM & Co. Solicitors can provide the support and clarity you…
Divorce Online
Book Appointment Divorce Online Begin Your Divorce Online with HM & Co. Solicitors Address: 186 Lower Road, Surrey Quays, London SE16 2UNTelephone: 02071128180Email: info@hmsolicitorsltd.com Solicitors to Assist with Your Online…
International Divorce
Book Appointment International Divorce Solicitors International Divorce Solicitors At HM & Co. Solicitors, our elite international divorce team has extensive experience handling cases across the globe, including throughout Europe, Australia,…
Testimonials
What Our Clients Are Saying
I have been using HM & Co. Solicitors since Feb 2020 for my Non-Molestation order and Child Arrangements proceedings. Since using them I have had two amazing solicitors on my case, Felicia and Ayesha.
This has been the first time I have ever been to court and had been quite nervous, especially due to the sensitivity of the proceedings. Felicia and Ayesha have been nothing but patient, professional and understanding.
I have felt very supportive and reassured throughout the proceedings and they have made sure that I understand what is going on throughout all the hearings.
If anyone is ever needing of legal help relating to Domestic Violence or Child Arrangements, I will always recommend HM & Co. Solicitor, Felicia and Ayesha.
Thank you again for all your help and support!
Love to say a massive thank you to HM & Co.Solicitors for a job well done on my two cases, really excited with the way my case was handle by Miss Daisy was amazing with good communication with client, very supportive, professional. I will recommend them to anyone experiencing legal/family issues and need legal advice/support. Miss O Adesina.
HM & Co. Solicitors are so helpful from receptionists right to the solicitors. I've had a few applications made to the court, which includes a non molestation order, recovering my son's passport from his dad and also arranging visits and Felicia is such a professional, organised solicitor who knows her staff so well. She is a blessing and willing to help. She thinks outside the box, and finds solutions in the blink of an eye! Besides her expertise in this field, she will not hesitate to speak up and stand firm when necessary. I am very grateful for her and the company who are so supportive and helpful. Highly recommend!
HM & Co. Solicitors provided an excellent service when supporting us to purchase a flat (where we are first time buyers).
Michael, our solicitor, explained the process clearly so it was not stressful, and acted efficiently to speed up the process. He also ensured we did not exchange immediately due to uncertainty over building works, which saved us a lot of money in the long-run. His judgement calls were excellent and ensured we came out with the best deal possible. I would not hesitate to work with HM &Co Solicitors again.
Shocked and surprised!
I entered the HM & Co Solicitors on Lower Road in what can only be described as a highly agitated state. I had been told a variety of information from another company and had been told I needed services from a solicitor. After explaining my situation to the gentleman I now know as Mr Hakeem Ayantayo (solicitor) he advised me that I did not need his services and to offer them to me for monetary gain would be against good public practise. He offered me friendly advice and even briefly spoke on the phone to the other company who were trying to make things difficult for me. Ultimately the situation I was in was resolved due to Mr Ayantayo and his due diligence. Mr Ayantayo could have taken advantage of my ignorance and lack of lawful knowledge but instead showed me kindness and support all while not fleecing me! Which in this day and age is a rarity! My sincere thanks to Mr Ayantayo and his lovely secretary you have restored my faith in not only the local business community but people in general.
Your Questions, Answered
FAQs
FAQs: Finding Divorce Records with Known or Unknown Information
How do I obtain divorce records if I already have specific details (case number and court)?
What if I don’t have the case number but know which court handled my divorce?
Get Started with Confidence
Book Appointment
Insights & Advice
Latest Blog Posts
