Tom Green Public Records /Tom Green County Divorce Records

Tom Green County Divorce Records

What Are Tom Green County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Tom Green County are official legal documents that provide evidence of the dissolution of a marriage within the county's jurisdiction. These records are maintained pursuant to the Texas Family Code § 6.001, which establishes the grounds for divorce in the state of Texas. The District Clerk of Tom Green County serves as the official custodian of these records, which document the entire legal process from the initial filing of the divorce petition through the final judgment.

Divorce records typically consist of several components:

Petition for Divorce - The initial filing that begins the divorce process
Citation and Return of Service - Documentation showing the non-filing spouse was properly notified
Answer and Counter-Petition - The response from the non-filing spouse
Temporary Orders - Court directives governing conduct during the pendency of the case
Financial Affidavits - Sworn statements detailing assets, debts, income, and expenses
Final Decree of Divorce - The court's final judgment dissolving the marriage

These records serve multiple important purposes for individuals and society, including:

Providing legal proof of marital status change
Enabling remarriage by documenting legal termination of a previous marriage
Supporting name change processes following divorce
Establishing eligibility for certain Social Security benefits
Documenting marital status for loan applications and financial matters
Verifying marital history for immigration proceedings

The Tom Green County District Clerk maintains these records as part of their statutory duties to preserve court documents and provide access to them according to applicable laws.

Are Tom Green County Divorce Records Public?

Tom Green County divorce records have a nuanced public access status governed by the Texas Public Information Act and specific provisions of the Texas Family Code. The accessibility of these records varies depending on the specific document type and the information contained therein.

Court case files related to divorces are generally considered public records and may be accessed by any member of the public with certain exceptions:

Records containing sensitive personal information such as Social Security numbers, bank account details, and certain medical information are typically redacted before public access is granted
Cases involving domestic violence may have protective orders that restrict access to certain documents
Matters involving minor children may have additional privacy protections
Records sealed by court order are not available for public inspection

Certified divorce certificates, which provide official verification of a divorce, have more restricted access. Pursuant to Texas Health and Safety Code § 181.1, these documents are available only to:

The individuals named in the divorce decree
Legal representatives with proper authorization
Individuals who can demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record

The District Clerk of Tom Green County implements these access restrictions in accordance with state law while balancing the public's right to information with individual privacy concerns.

Tom Green County District Clerk
112 W Beauregard Ave, San Angelo, TX 76903
(325) 659-6579
Tom Green County District Clerk

How To Find a Divorce Record In Tom Green County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in Tom Green County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The following procedures are currently in effect for accessing divorce records:

In-person requests at the District Clerk's Office:
- Visit the District Clerk's Office during regular business hours
- Complete a records request form providing the names of the parties and approximate date of divorce
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay applicable search and copy fees
Written requests by mail:
- Submit a written request including names of parties, approximate date of divorce, and specific documents needed
- Include a copy of valid government-issued photo identification
- Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for return documents
- Include payment for applicable fees (check or money order)
Online index search:
- Access the Tom Green County District Clerk's online records portal
- Search by party name, case number, or filing date
- Note that full document images may not be available online; the index provides case information to facilitate in-person or written requests

For certified copies of divorce decrees, requestors must provide:

Full names of both parties to the divorce
Date of divorce (month and year at minimum)
Case number (if known)
Purpose for which the record is needed

The Texas Department of State Health Services maintains a statewide index of divorces that can help locate records when the specific county is unknown.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Tom Green County Online?

Tom Green County provides limited online access to divorce record information through its electronic case management system. The following steps outline the current process for conducting online searches:

Navigate to the Tom Green County District Clerk's website
Locate and select the "Public Records Search" or similar option on the homepage
Register for an account if required (some basic search functions may be available without registration)
Select "Civil Cases" or "Family Law Cases" from the available search categories
Enter search criteria:
- Last name and first name of either party
- Case number (if known)
- Date range for filing or disposition
- Case type (select "Divorce" or "Dissolution of Marriage")
Review search results, which typically include:
- Case number
- Party names
- Filing date
- Case type
- Current status
- Judge assigned

It is important to note that the online system provides index information rather than complete case files. While the system shows case existence and basic details, it generally does not provide access to full document images due to privacy considerations and technical limitations.

For comprehensive divorce records, including full decree text and supporting documents, requestors must typically:

Note the case information from the online search
Contact the District Clerk's office directly to request specific documents
Pay applicable fees for document retrieval and copying

The Texas Department of State Health Services also maintains divorce indexes that can be searched online, though these provide only verification of the divorce occurrence rather than access to the actual records.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Tom Green County?

Members of the public seeking no-cost access to divorce records in Tom Green County have limited options available. The following methods may be utilized to access basic divorce record information without incurring fees:

Public access terminals at the courthouse:
- Visit the Tom Green County District Clerk's Office during regular business hours
- Request to use the public access computer terminals
- Search the case management system for basic case information
- View limited information without printing (printing typically incurs fees)
Online case index:
- Access the Tom Green County District Clerk's website
- Use the public records search function
- View basic case information including party names, case numbers, and filing dates
- Note that document images are generally not available through this free service
Texas Department of State Health Services divorce indexes:
- Access the state's online divorce index
- Search by name and year
- Confirm the existence of a divorce record without fee
- Note that this provides only verification, not actual record content

It is important to understand that while basic information may be accessed without cost, fees typically apply for:

Printed copies of documents
Certified copies of divorce decrees
Staff assistance with extensive searches
Document retrieval from archived records

Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.261, government agencies are permitted to charge reasonable fees to recover costs associated with providing copies of public records.

Tom Green County District Clerk
112 W Beauregard Ave, San Angelo, TX 76903
(325) 659-6579
Tom Green County District Clerk

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Tom Green County

Divorce records in Tom Green County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the legal dissolution of marriage from initiation through final judgment. These records typically contain the following components:

Petition for Divorce:
- Names and addresses of both parties
- Date and location of marriage
- Grounds for divorce (insupportability, cruelty, adultery, etc.)
- Statement regarding children of the marriage
- Requested relief (property division, custody, support, etc.)
Service Documentation:
- Citation issued to respondent
- Return of service showing date and method of delivery
- Waiver of service (if applicable)
Respondent's Answer:
- Admission or denial of allegations
- Affirmative defenses
- Counter-petitions (if filed)
Temporary Orders:
- Interim custody and visitation arrangements
- Temporary support obligations
- Use of property during pendency of case
- Conduct restrictions
Financial Disclosures:
- Inventory and appraisement of assets
- Disclosure of liabilities
- Income statements
- Expense declarations
Settlement Documents:
- Mediation agreements
- Property settlement agreements
- Parenting plans
Final Decree of Divorce:
- Judicial findings
- Dissolution of marriage declaration
- Property division orders
- Child custody determinations
- Support obligations
- Name restoration (if requested)
Post-Judgment Filings:
- Qualified domestic relations orders (QDROs)
- Wage withholding orders
- Deeds and transfers pursuant to decree
- Modification requests

The level of detail in these records varies significantly based on case complexity, whether children are involved, and the extent of property to be divided. Records involving minor children contain additional documentation related to custody evaluations, parenting plans, and child support calculations.

All divorce records are maintained by the Tom Green County District Clerk in accordance with state retention requirements.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Tom Green County?

Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Tom Green County may obtain this documentation through established procedures administered by the District Clerk's Office. The following methods are currently available for securing proof of divorce:

Certified Copy of Divorce Decree:
- Submit a written request to the Tom Green County District Clerk
- Provide full names of both parties to the divorce
- Include the approximate date of divorce
- Supply the case number (if known)
- Present valid photo identification
- Pay the certification fee (currently $1.00 per page plus $5.00 for certification)
Certificate of Divorce:
- Request a divorce verification certificate from the District Clerk
- Provide names of parties, date of divorce, and case number
- Pay the applicable fee
- Note that this abbreviated document confirms the divorce but contains less detail than the full decree
Divorce Verification Letter:
- Request a formal letter verifying divorce status
- Provide required identifying information
- Pay administrative fee
- Useful for certain administrative purposes where full decree is not required

Requests may be submitted:

In Person:
Tom Green County District Clerk
112 W Beauregard Ave, San Angelo, TX 76903
(325) 659-6579
Tom Green County District Clerk
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

By Mail:
Tom Green County District Clerk
112 W Beauregard Ave
San Angelo, TX 76903

For divorces finalized in Tom Green County but where parties now reside elsewhere, the Texas Department of State Health Services can provide verification of divorce through their vital records system, though the actual decree must be obtained from the District Clerk.

Pursuant to Texas Family Code § 6.409, the clerk's record of a divorce decree constitutes legal proof of dissolution of marriage for all legal purposes.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Tom Green County?

Under certain circumstances, divorce proceedings and associated records in Tom Green County may receive confidential treatment or restricted access. The Texas Family Code and Rules of Civil Procedure provide several mechanisms through which divorce records may be shielded from public view:

Sealing of Records:
- Parties may petition the court to seal divorce records pursuant to Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 76a
- Must demonstrate that privacy interests substantially outweigh public interest in access
- Requires showing that no less restrictive means would adequately protect the interest
- Court must conduct hearing and issue specific findings supporting sealing order
Protective Orders:
- Court may issue protective orders limiting disclosure of sensitive information
- Commonly used for financial records, medical information, and matters involving children
- Less comprehensive than full record sealing but provides targeted protection
Automatic Confidentiality Provisions:
- Records containing certain information receive statutory protection, including:
  - Social Security numbers
  - Bank account numbers
  - Medical records
  - Information related to victims of family violence
  - Certain child-related information
Use of Initials or Pseudonyms:
- In cases involving sensitive matters, courts may permit parties to use initials rather than full names
- Particularly applicable in cases involving domestic violence or child abuse allegations
Redaction Requirements:
- Texas Government Code § 552.147 requires redaction of sensitive personal information before public disclosure
- Applies to Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, and certain financial information

It is important to note that confidentiality in divorce proceedings is the exception rather than the rule. Texas courts generally favor transparency and public access to court records. Parties seeking confidentiality must demonstrate compelling reasons that overcome this presumption of openness.

The District Clerk implements these confidentiality provisions in accordance with court orders and applicable statutes, balancing privacy interests with the public's right to information.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Tom Green County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Tom Green County varies considerably based on multiple factors related to case complexity and the level of agreement between parties. The following timeframes represent current processing expectations:

Statutory Waiting Period:
- Texas imposes a mandatory 60-day waiting period from filing to finalization
- This "cooling off" period begins on the date of filing and applies to all divorces
- Established by Texas Family Code § 6.702
- Exceptions exist only in cases involving family violence with active protective orders
Uncontested Divorces:
- When parties agree on all issues (property division, custody, support)
- Typically finalized within 60-90 days after filing
- Requires complete agreement and cooperation between parties
- Represents approximately 58% of Tom Green County divorces
Contested Divorces with Negotiated Settlement:
- Parties initially disagree but reach agreement through negotiation or mediation
- Generally resolved within 4-8 months
- Timeline influenced by complexity of issues and attorney/mediator availability
- Represents approximately 35% of Tom Green County divorces
Fully Contested Divorces Requiring Trial:
- Parties unable to reach agreement on significant issues
- Typically require 9-18 months to complete
- Duration affected by court docket congestion, discovery complexity, and expert witness involvement
- Represents approximately 7% of Tom Green County divorces
Factors Affecting Timeline:
- Court docket congestion
- Attorney scheduling conflicts
- Complexity of property division
- Child custody disputes
- Business valuation requirements
- Discovery disputes
- Temporary orders hearings

According to statistics from the Office of Court Administration, the average time to disposition for contested divorce cases in Tom Green County is approximately 8.3 months, while uncontested cases average 2.4 months from filing to final decree.

The District Courts of Tom Green County prioritize efficient case management while ensuring due process for all parties involved in divorce proceedings.

How Long Does Tom Green County Keep Divorce Records?

Tom Green County maintains divorce records according to a structured retention schedule established pursuant to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission guidelines and Texas Local Government Code § 203.042. The following retention periods currently apply to divorce records:

Case Files and Final Decrees:
- Permanent retention
- Never destroyed or purged
- Eventually transferred to archival storage but remain accessible
- Maintained in original paper form and increasingly in digital format
Indexes and Dockets:
- Permanent retention
- Essential for locating specific cases
- Maintained in both physical and electronic formats
- Provide case numbers, party names, and disposition information
Exhibits:
- Retained for 30 days after case disposition becomes final
- May be reclaimed by submitting parties during this period
- Unclaimed exhibits may be destroyed after retention period
- Exceptions for items with historical significance or continuing evidentiary value
Discovery Documents:
- Not typically filed with the court unless used as exhibits
- When filed, retained according to case file schedule
- Otherwise maintained by attorneys according to their retention policies
Administrative Records:
- Correspondence, notices, and routine filings
- Generally retained for 3 years after case closure
- Subject to earlier destruction if deemed administratively valueless

The District Clerk of Tom Green County implements these retention schedules while ensuring compliance with all applicable laws regarding record preservation. As technology evolves, the county continues to digitize older records to improve accessibility while preserving historical documents.

For records research spanning many decades, requestors should note that older records may be stored off-site and require additional retrieval time. Records from the early 20th century and before may exist in different formats and organizational systems than contemporary files.

How To Get a Divorce In Tom Green County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Tom Green County must follow established legal procedures governed by the Texas Family Code. The following process outlines the current steps required to obtain a divorce:

Residency Requirements:
- Either spouse must have been a Texas resident for at least six months
- One spouse must have resided in Tom Green County for at least 90 days
- Residency must be established before filing petition
Petition Filing:
- Complete an Original Petition for Divorce
- File with the District Clerk of Tom Green County
- Pay filing fee (approximately $300-350) or submit Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs
- Request issuance of citation if spouse will not sign waiver
Legal Notice to Spouse:
- Serve spouse with petition and citation through:
  - Personal service by constable or process server
  - Waiver of service signed by spouse
  - Publication (if spouse cannot be located)
  - Alternative service methods with court approval
Waiting Period:
- Observe mandatory 60-day waiting period from date of filing
- Required by Texas Family Code § 6.702
- No final decree can be granted before waiting period expires
- Exception exists for cases involving family violence
Resolution Process:
- Uncontested: Prepare agreed decree for court approval
- Contested: Participate in required mediation
- If mediation unsuccessful, prepare for trial
- Attend temporary orders hearing if immediate issues need resolution
Finalization:
- Schedule final hearing (prove-up) with court
- Present decree to judge for approval
- Both parties sign decree if agreement reached
- Judge signs decree making divorce final
- File decree with District Clerk

Self-represented individuals may access forms and guidance through the Texas Law Help website, though complex cases typically benefit from legal representation.

Tom Green County District Clerk
112 W Beauregard Ave, San Angelo, TX 76903
(325) 659-6579
Tom Green County District Clerk

How To Get Divorce Papers In Tom Green County

Individuals seeking to initiate divorce proceedings in Tom Green County have several options for obtaining the necessary legal documents. The following methods are currently available for accessing divorce papers:

District Clerk's Office:
- Visit the Tom Green County District Clerk's office in person
- Request divorce petition packet
- Staff can provide basic forms but cannot offer legal advice
- Pay nominal fee for document package

Tom Green County District Clerk
112 W Beauregard Ave, San Angelo, TX 76903
(325) 659-6579
Tom Green County District Clerk
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Online Resources:
- Access standardized forms through Texas Law Help
- Download divorce petition templates and instructions
- Forms available for both contested and uncontested divorces
- Specialized forms for cases with and without children
Law Library:
- Utilize resources at the Tom Green County Law Library
- Access legal reference materials and form books
- Use public computers for form completion
- Obtain guidance on proper document formatting
Legal Aid Organizations:
- Contact Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas for assistance
- Determine eligibility for free or reduced-cost services
- Receive guidance on form completion
- Available primarily to low-income residents
Private Attorneys:
- Retain legal counsel to prepare customized documents
- Ensures forms address specific circumstances
- Provides legal advice throughout process
- Typically requires payment of retainer fee

Required documents typically include:

Original Petition for Divorce
Civil Case Information Sheet
Citation or Waiver of Service
Standing Order (if applicable in Tom Green County)
Proposed Final Decree of Divorce
Additional forms for child custody, support, and property division as needed

Individuals should note that while forms may be accessible without legal assistance, complex cases involving significant assets, businesses, retirement accounts, or contested child custody matters often benefit from professional legal guidance to ensure proper handling of all issues.

Lookup Divorce Records in Tom Green County

Tom Green County Clerk of the District Court

Tom Green County Clerk's Office

Marriage and Divorce Records | Texas DSHS

Marriage/Divorce Indexes | Texas DSHS

Order Vital Records | DSHS Official Application | Texas.gov

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