If you don't have the case number, narrow down the divorce year before you make the trip. If have have the case number, take it along. If you visit in person (or send someone on your behalf), a clerk will search the index for a case number for no charge, and, in most cases, be able to provide a copy of the decree while you wait. The copy machine is in good working order and prints on letter, legal, or 11 x 17 paper.Ĭertified decrees through 1986 can be obtained from the Circuit Court Archives. You can also use the copier at the Archives to make paper copies for their standard rates: $2.00 for the first page, $.50 for the next 19 pages, and $25 per copy thereafter. Return to View the File and Make CopiesĪfter you view the file, you can make copies using your cell phone camera (no digital cameras are allowed in the building) or a portable flatbed scanner. It will arrive in about a week (call to confirm it's there before making the return trip) and will be available for viewing and/or copying for about 30 days. Once you have a case number, fill out a request form to have the divorce file brought to the Archives from the off-site warehouse for no charge. The index for 1981 forward is electronic. The index for 1964-1980 is on microfiche. For example, 94-C-13647.įrom 1964 forward, consult the Domestic Relations Division Index. Case numbers include a year, a letter, and a number. In the 1930s the writing in some books is so faded that it's almost impossible to decipher what's there.Īn index entry for a divorce includes the names of the husband and wife (no maiden names), the case number, and, for some years, the date the case was filed. When you use these books, be very careful to choose the correct section to search. The later indexes are handwritten or typed ledgers and the entries are in chronological order grouped by the first few letters of the surnames. If you use the larger reader that projects to a flat white surface, ask to borrow a magnifying glass because the print will be small. The earlier indexes are computer-generated alphabetical printouts and they're easy to use if you put them on the smaller front-screen reader. If you know the names of both parties, search either the plaintiff or the defendant indexes. There are two courts to search-Circuit Court and Superior Court-and both have plaintiff and defendant indexes. You'll need to go through security to access the building so pack light and leave things like cameras, pocket knives, and banjos home.Ĭonsult the microfilmed indexes to find a case numbers for divorces 1871-1963. Washington, Room 1113, open weekdays 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. To search indexes, visit the Cook County Circuit Court Archives on the eleventh floor of the Daley Center, 50 W. If you can't do the research in person, see the FAQ for how to obtain the records from a distance. This page explains how to search for divorce records at the Cook County Circuit Court Archives. Try using this link to find Archives information. Note: The Clerk of the Circuit Court website is experiencing "technical difficulties" which means the links below may appear broken.
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