Going through a divorce can be a challenging experience for everyone involved. Besides the emotional and financial impact, some practical matters arise, such as the need to obtain legal documents that certify the separation. One of these documents is the divorce certificate. In this article, we will guide you through the process of obtaining a divorce certificate in the state of New Hampshire.
What is a Divorce Certificate?
A divorce certificate or divorce decree is a legal document issued by a court of law that confirms that a couple is legally divorced. It contains information about the dissolution of the marriage, including the date of the divorce, the name of the former spouse, and any provisions made for alimony, child support, and custody.
How to Obtain a Divorce Certificate in New Hampshire?
The New Hampshire Department of State’s Division of Vital Records Administration (DVRA) is responsible for maintaining and issuing vital records, including divorce certificates, within the state. The process of obtaining a divorce certificate in New Hampshire can vary depending on the date of the divorce.
For Divorces before 2018:
If the divorce was finalized before January 1, 2018, the divorce certificate will be available at the court where the divorce was granted. You can contact the court clerk’s office to request a certified copy of the divorce certificate. You will need to provide the court with the following information:
- Full names of the divorcees
- Date of the divorce
- County where the divorce was granted
You will also need to pay a fee to receive a certified copy of the document. The cost may vary depending on the court where you make the request.
For Divorces after 2018:
If the divorce was finalized after January 1, 2018, the divorce certificate is available online through the DVRA website. Here are the steps to obtain a divorce certificate online:
Visit the NH E-Access website: Go to the New Hampshire E-Access website and follow the prompts to create an account. You will be required to enter personal information, including your full name, email address, and date of birth.
Search for the Record: Once you have created an account, you can search for the divorce certificate under the vital records tab. You will need to provide the following information:
- Full names of the divorcees
- Date of the divorce
- County where the divorce was granted
Pay the Fee: Pay a fee to receive a certified copy of the divorce certificate. The cost is $15 for the first certified copy and $10 for each additional copy.
Receive the Certificate: Once the payment is complete, the divorce certificate will be mailed to the address you provided during the registration process. It may take up to ten business days to receive the certificate.
In-Person Request:
If you prefer to request a divorce certificate in person, you can visit the DVRA office in Concord, New Hampshire. Here are the steps to request a divorce certificate in person:
- Complete the Application: Complete the application form provided by the DVRA office. You will need to provide the following information:
- Full names of the divorcees
- Date of the divorce
- County where the divorce was granted
Pay for the Certificate: Pay a fee to receive a certified copy of the divorce certificate. The cost is $15 for the first certified copy and $10 for each additional copy.
Receive the Certificate: Once the payment is complete, you will receive the certificate on the same day.
Conclusion
Obtaining a divorce certificate may seem daunting, but it’s a vital step to document the legal dissolution of a marriage. Whether you need a divorce certificate for personal or legal reasons, you can follow the simple steps outlined in this article to obtain one in the state of New Hampshire. Always ensure that you have all the required information and fees before starting the process to avoid any inconvenience.