Divorce records in Greene County, Missouri, can be accessed through several channels. GreeneMOCourt.us can help you find publicly available divorce record information for Greene County. You can also obtain records directly from the circuit court that issued the decree, the Greene County Recorder's Office, or the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Bureau of Vital Records. Which office you contact depends on whether you need a court file or a vital record certificate.
Greene Divorce Records Search
In Missouri, divorce is legally called "dissolution of marriage." Greene County divorce records are maintained by two separate offices, each holding different types of documents:
- Greene County Circuit Court, 31st Judicial Circuit — The circuit clerk's office keeps the complete court file, including the petition for dissolution, the divorce decree (judgment), property settlement agreements, custody and parenting plan orders, and all related motions and filings.
- Missouri Bureau of Vital Records — The state vital records office maintains an index of divorce certificates, which are summary documents confirming that a divorce was granted. These certificates do not contain the full terms of the decree.
The Greene County Archives and Records Center may also hold older divorce-related court records that have been transferred for long-term storage.
The primary office for current divorce court records is:
Greene County Circuit Clerk's Office
Dissolution of marriage cases in Greene County are handled through the Family Court division of the 31st Judicial Circuit. Court records generally are public unless sealed by a judge, though certain documents involving children or sensitive financial information may have restricted access.
Where Divorce Records Are Filed in Greene
Understanding which office holds the record you need will save time. Here is how divorce records are filed in Greene County:
Circuit Court — Complete Case Files
All dissolution of marriage cases in Greene County are filed in the Circuit Court of the 31st Judicial Circuit. After a judge enters the final judgment (decree), the circuit clerk's office retains the entire case file. This is where you go if you need:
- A copy of the divorce decree or judgment
- Property settlement agreements
- Custody orders or parenting plans
- Any motions, responses, or amendments filed during the case
Greene County Circuit Clerk's Office
Missouri Bureau of Vital Records — Divorce Certificates
The state vital records office issues divorce certificates, which are short-form documents that verify a divorce occurred. These are often used for name changes, remarriage, or benefits applications. Missouri has maintained a statewide divorce index since July 1948. You can order a divorce certificate online, by mail, or in person from the state office.
Missouri Bureau of Vital Records
Which Office Should You Contact?
| What You Need | Contact |
|---|---|
| Full divorce decree or judgment | Greene County Circuit Clerk |
| Settlement agreement or custody order | Greene County Circuit Clerk |
| Divorce certificate (verification only) | Missouri Bureau of Vital Records |
| Historical divorce records (pre-1960s) | Greene County Archives or Missouri State Archives |
Divorce Record Search Fees, Copy Costs, and Processing Times in Greene
| Service | Fee | Typical Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Divorce certificate from Missouri Bureau of Vital Records (by mail) | $15.00 | 2–6 weeks |
| Divorce certificate — additional copy (same order) | $11.00 | Included with original order |
| Divorce certificate — expedited processing (Vital Records) | $15.00 + expedite fee | 5–7 business days |
| Court record copies (circuit clerk, per page) | $0.50–$1.00 | Same day to several business days |
| Certified copy of court document (circuit clerk) | Varies; contact clerk | Same day to several business days |