Coryell County Public Records /Coryell County Divorce Records

Coryell County Divorce Records

What Are Coryell County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Coryell County are official legal documents that provide documentation of the dissolution of marriage between two individuals 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's Office of Coryell County serves as the official custodian of these records, which include various court documents filed throughout divorce proceedings.

Divorce records typically consist of:

Petition for Divorce (initial filing)
Citation and Return of Service
Answer from respondent
Temporary orders
Financial affidavits
Property division agreements
Child custody and support arrangements
Final Decree of Divorce

These documents serve multiple important purposes for individuals and government agencies, including:

Providing legal proof of marital status change
Enabling remarriage
Supporting legal name changes
Verifying eligibility for Social Security benefits
Documenting status for loan applications
Establishing status for immigration matters
Facilitating property transfers and estate planning

The Texas Department of State Health Services also maintains divorce verification records, which provide basic information about divorces granted within the state, including the names of parties, date of divorce, and county where the divorce was granted.

Are Coryell County Divorce Records Public?

Divorce records in Coryell County have a dual status regarding public accessibility. Court case files related to divorce proceedings are generally considered public records under the Texas Public Information Act, which establishes the public's right to access government records. However, this access is subject to important limitations and exceptions.

The following aspects of divorce records are typically accessible to the public:

Basic case information (parties' names, case number, filing date)
Court hearing dates and times
Final divorce decrees (with certain redactions)
Property division agreements (unless sealed)

However, certain components of divorce records may be restricted from public access:

Records containing sensitive personal information as defined by Texas Government Code § 552.147, including Social Security numbers, bank account information, and certain financial data
Records involving minor children, particularly in cases with allegations of abuse
Records sealed by court order due to safety concerns, such as cases involving domestic violence
Medical and mental health evaluations
Records containing information about victims of family violence

Additionally, certified divorce certificates (verification documents) issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services have restricted access. Pursuant to Texas Health and Safety Code § 192.008, these verification documents are available only to:

The individuals named in the record
Immediate family members
Legal representatives of the named parties
Individuals who can demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record

Members of the public seeking divorce records in Coryell County must balance their right to information with the privacy protections established by state law.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Coryell County in 2026

Individuals seeking divorce records in Coryell County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The appropriate approach depends on the type of record needed and the requester's relationship to the case.

For court case files:

Contact the Coryell County District Clerk's Office, which maintains records of divorce proceedings filed within the county:

Coryell County District Clerk
Coryell County Courthouse
620 E. Main Street
Gatesville, TX 76528
(254) 865-5911
Coryell County District Clerk

Provide the clerk with specific information to facilitate the search:
- Full names of both parties involved in the divorce
- Approximate date of divorce filing or finalization
- Case number (if known)
Submit a written request form, which may be obtained from the clerk's office or downloaded from the county website.
Pay applicable search and copy fees. Currently, the District Clerk charges:
- $5.00 for record searches
- $1.00 per page for standard copies
- $5.00 per page for certified copies

For divorce verification certificates:

Contact the Texas Department of State Health Services' Vital Statistics Section:

Texas Department of State Health Services - Vital Statistics
1100 West 49th Street
Austin, TX 78756
(888) 963-7111
Texas DSHS Vital Records

Complete an application for divorce verification, providing:
- Full names of both parties
- Date of divorce
- County where divorce was granted
Submit proof of identity and establish eligibility to receive the record.
Pay the required fee, currently $20.00 for a divorce verification.

Requesters may also utilize the Texas.gov online vital records ordering system for expedited processing of divorce verification certificates.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Coryell County Online?

Coryell County offers limited online access to divorce records through several digital platforms. Members of the public seeking to conduct online searches for divorce records may utilize the following resources:

The Texas Courts Case Search provides a centralized portal for accessing basic case information from participating counties. Users may search by:
- Party name
- Case number
- Filing date range
- Case type (select "Family/Divorce")
The Coryell County District Clerk's website offers information about available records and procedures, though full document access may require registration and payment of fees.
For divorce verification certificates, the Texas Department of State Health Services provides an online ordering system through the Texas.gov vital records portal.

When conducting online searches, users should note the following limitations:

Complete divorce case files are typically not available for direct download due to privacy concerns
Online systems generally provide case indexes rather than full document access
Certain sensitive information is redacted from publicly accessible online records
Records predating digital conversion may not appear in online databases
User registration and fees may be required for comprehensive searches

For the most complete access to divorce records, individuals may need to supplement online searches with in-person visits to the Coryell County District Clerk's office.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Coryell County?

While obtaining certified copies of divorce records typically involves fees, Coryell County residents and interested parties may access certain divorce record information at no cost through several methods:

In-person inspection at the Coryell County District Clerk's Office:

Coryell County District Clerk
Coryell County Courthouse
620 E. Main Street
Gatesville, TX 76528
(254) 865-5911
Coryell County District Clerk

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (excluding holidays)

Pursuant to the Texas Public Information Act, members of the public may view non-confidential court records without charge during regular business hours. While viewing is free, any requested copies will incur standard fees.

Public access terminals at the courthouse may be available for searching case indexes without charge.
The Texas Courts Public Case Search provides basic case information at no cost, including:
- Case numbers
- Party names
- Filing dates
- Case type
- Current status
Local public libraries in Coryell County may offer free access to public computers with internet connectivity, enabling searches of publicly available court information.

Individuals seeking free access should note these important limitations:

While viewing records may be free, obtaining copies (physical or electronic) typically involves fees
Staff assistance with extensive searches may not be available without charge
Older records may require more time-intensive manual searches
Access to confidential or sealed records remains restricted regardless of fee payment

For comprehensive research needs, combining free inspection with selective copying of essential documents may provide the most cost-effective approach.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Coryell County

Divorce records in Coryell County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the legal dissolution of marriage from initiation through final judgment. These records typically contain several distinct components, each serving specific legal and administrative purposes.

Court case files generally include:

Petition for Divorce - The initial filing that states grounds for divorce and requested relief
Citation and Return of Service - Documentation showing the non-filing spouse was properly notified
Answer and Counter-Petition - The responding spouse's formal reply and any counter-claims
Temporary Orders - Court directives governing conduct, support, and custody during proceedings
Discovery Documents - Financial disclosures, interrogatories, and depositions
Motions and Responses - Requests for court action and opposing arguments
Mediation Agreements - Results of alternative dispute resolution efforts
Final Decree of Divorce - The court's final judgment dissolving the marriage and addressing:
- Property division
- Debt allocation
- Spousal maintenance (if applicable)
- Child custody and visitation schedules
- Child support obligations
- Name change authorizations

Divorce verification certificates issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services contain more limited information:

Full names of both parties
Date of divorce finalization
County where divorce was granted
Case number
Court of jurisdiction

Additional documents that may appear in divorce records include:

Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) for division of retirement accounts
Real estate deeds and property transfer documents
Business valuation reports
Child custody evaluations (often confidential)
Protective orders (if domestic violence was involved)
Income verification and tax returns
Parenting plans and custody agreements

The comprehensiveness of divorce records makes them valuable for legal, financial, and genealogical research, though access restrictions protect sensitive personal information contained within these documents.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Coryell County?

Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Coryell County have multiple options for obtaining documentation that verifies the legal termination of a marriage. The appropriate method depends on the level of detail needed and the intended use of the verification.

For a certified copy of the Final Decree of Divorce:

Contact the Coryell County District Clerk's Office:

Coryell County District Clerk
Coryell County Courthouse
620 E. Main Street
Gatesville, TX 76528
(254) 865-5911
Coryell County District Clerk

Provide the clerk with:
- Names of both parties to the divorce
- Approximate date of divorce finalization
- Case number (if known)
Submit a written request form available from the clerk's office.
Pay the certification fee, currently $5.00 per document plus $1.00 per page.

For an official divorce verification certificate:

Order through the Texas Department of State Health Services using one of these methods:

a. Online: Visit the Texas.gov vital records portal for the fastest processing.

b. By mail: Download and complete the divorce verification application from the DSHS website, then mail with payment to:

Texas Vital Statistics
Department of State Health Services
P.O. Box 12040
Austin, TX 78711-2040

c. In person: Visit the DSHS Vital Statistics Office in Austin or a local registrar's office.
Provide required identification and establish eligibility to receive the record.
Pay the applicable fee, currently $20.00 for a divorce verification.

For expedited service, requesters may:

Use the online ordering system with expedited shipping options
Utilize third-party vital records services authorized by the state (additional fees apply)
Request rush processing from the District Clerk (when available)

Proof of divorce documents are typically accepted for most legal purposes, including remarriage, name changes, and immigration proceedings.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Coryell County?

While divorce proceedings in Coryell County are generally matters of public record, Texas law provides several mechanisms through which certain aspects of divorce cases may be kept confidential. The confidentiality of divorce records is governed by various provisions of Texas law, including the Texas Family Code § 6.409 and Texas Rules of Civil Procedure Rule 76a.

Circumstances under which divorce records may be confidential include:

Sealing of Records by Court Order:
- Parties may petition the court to seal all or portions of the divorce file
- The court must find that a specific, serious, and substantial interest clearly outweighs:
  - The presumption of openness
  - Any probable adverse effect on public health or safety
- Notice of the sealing request must be posted, and a public hearing may be held
- The court must use the least restrictive means of protecting the interest at stake
Automatic Confidentiality Protections:
- Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, and certain financial information are automatically redacted from public access pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.147
- Medical and mental health records included in divorce files
- Records involving allegations of child abuse or neglect
- Information about victims of family violence
Alternative Dispute Resolution:
- Mediation communications and records are confidential under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 154.053
- Settlement agreements may remain private unless filed with the court
Protective Orders:
- In cases involving domestic violence, the court may issue protective orders that shield certain information from public disclosure

Parties seeking confidentiality should be aware that:

Complete sealing of divorce records is rare and requires compelling justification
Even when records are sealed, basic case information (names of parties, case number, etc.) typically remains public
Confidentiality orders do not prevent disclosure to government agencies with legitimate needs for the information
Courts balance privacy interests against the public's right to access judicial records

Individuals with specific confidentiality concerns should consult with a qualified attorney to explore available options under Texas law.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Coryell County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Coryell County varies significantly based on multiple factors, including case complexity, level of agreement between parties, and court scheduling. Under Texas law, specifically Texas Family Code § 6.702, a divorce cannot be finalized until at least 60 days have elapsed since the petition was filed, establishing a mandatory "cooling-off" period.

Typical timeframes for Coryell County divorces include:

Uncontested Divorces (parties agree on all issues):
- Minimum: 60 days from filing (statutory waiting period)
- Average: 2-4 months
- Factors affecting timeline:
  - Court docket availability
  - Completeness of initial paperwork
  - Prompt submission of Final Decree for judge's signature
Contested Divorces (disagreement on one or more issues):
- Average: 6-12 months
- Complex cases: 12-18 months or longer
- Factors affecting timeline:
  - Property valuation complexities
  - Child custody disputes
  - Discovery process duration
  - Mediation or alternative dispute resolution attempts
  - Trial scheduling
  - Post-trial motions
Default Divorces (respondent fails to answer):
- Minimum: 60 days plus time for service and default waiting period
- Average: 3-5 months
- Dependent on proof of proper service and court scheduling

According to the Texas Office of Court Administration, the average disposition time for family law cases in Texas district courts is approximately 6.2 months, though Coryell County's specific averages may vary based on local caseload and court resources.

Procedural milestones that affect timing include:

Service of process (typically 1-4 weeks)
Answer deadline (20 days after service)
Temporary orders hearing (usually within 2-4 weeks of filing)
Discovery period (60-90 days in typical cases)
Mediation (required in most contested cases)
Final hearing or trial (dependent on court docket)

Parties seeking expedited processing should note that the 60-day waiting period cannot be waived except in cases involving family violence, as specified in Texas Family Code § 6.702(c).

How Long Does Coryell County Keep Divorce Records?

Coryell County maintains divorce records according to retention schedules established by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission under the authority of Texas Local Government Code § 203.041. These schedules establish minimum retention periods for various types of court records, including those related to divorce proceedings.

The retention periods for divorce-related records in Coryell County are as follows:

District Court Case Files (including divorce proceedings):
- Permanent retention for:
  - Final judgments and decrees
  - Orders affecting property title
  - Orders affecting child custody and support
  - Index to cases
- 20 years after final disposition for:
  - Supporting documentation
  - Exhibits not reclaimed by parties
  - Transcripts and statements of fact
Divorce Verification Records (maintained by Texas DSHS):
- Permanent retention
- Records dating back to 1968 are maintained in a centralized state database
- Earlier records may be available from the county where the divorce was granted
Docket Sheets and Court Calendars:
- Permanent retention for docket sheets
- 5 years for court calendars and scheduling records
Financial Records Related to Divorce Cases:
- Child support payment records: Until the youngest child turns 18, plus 10 years
- Court cost and fee records: 5 years after final audit
- Bond records: 5 years after case disposition
Electronic Records:
- Subject to the same retention requirements as paper records
- Backup systems and migration protocols ensure long-term accessibility

Researchers seeking historical divorce records should note:

Records from the early to mid-20th century may be stored in archival facilities
Some older records may have been microfilmed or digitized
Pre-1900 records may have limited availability due to courthouse fires or other historical events
Access to archived records may require advance notice to the District Clerk's office

The Texas State Library and Archives Commission provides comprehensive guidance on records retention for all Texas counties, including specific schedules for judicial records.

How To Get a Divorce In Coryell County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Coryell County must follow procedures established by the Texas Family Code and local court rules. The divorce process involves several distinct steps, from initial filing through final judgment.

To initiate a divorce in Coryell County:

Establish eligibility by meeting residency requirements:
- Either spouse must have been a Texas resident for the preceding six months
- Either spouse must have been a Coryell County resident for the preceding 90 days
Prepare the Original Petition for Divorce:
- State grounds for divorce (Texas allows no-fault divorce based on "insupportability")
- Include basic information about the marriage and any children
- Specify requests regarding property division, custody, and support
- Standard forms are available through Texas Law Help
File the petition with the Coryell County District Clerk:

Coryell County District Clerk
Coryell County Courthouse
620 E. Main Street
Gatesville, TX 76528
(254) 865-5911
Coryell County District Clerk

Pay the filing fee (approximately $300) or submit a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs if financially qualified.
Serve the non-filing spouse through one of these methods:
- Official service by sheriff or constable
- Private process server
- Certified mail, return receipt requested
- Waiver of service signed by the respondent
- Alternative service by court order if the respondent cannot be located
Wait for the respondent's answer (due within 20 days of service) or proceed with default if no answer is filed.
Negotiate settlement or prepare for contested proceedings:
- Attend mediation (typically required in contested cases)
- Participate in temporary orders hearings if needed
- Complete discovery process in contested cases
- Develop parenting plans if children are involved
Finalize the divorce:
- Prepare Final Decree of Divorce
- Attend final hearing (uncontested cases may qualify for prove-up hearings)
- Submit additional required forms, such as:
  - Child support orders
  - Standard possession order
  - Wage withholding orders
  - Property transfer documents
After the judge signs the Final Decree, file any necessary post-judgment documents:
- Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) for retirement accounts
- Deeds transferring real property
- Name change documents

The Texas Judicial Branch provides resources for self-represented litigants, though complex cases may require legal representation.

How To Get Divorce Papers In Coryell County

Individuals seeking divorce papers in Coryell County have several options for obtaining the necessary forms to initiate or respond to divorce proceedings. The appropriate method depends on the complexity of the case and whether professional legal assistance is desired.

For self-represented individuals:

Coryell County District Clerk's Office:

Coryell County District Clerk
Coryell County Courthouse
620 E. Main Street
Gatesville, TX 76528
(254) 865-5911
Coryell County District Clerk

The clerk's office can provide basic information about filing requirements and may have some standard forms available, though staff cannot provide legal advice.

Texas Law Help website offers free, court-approved divorce forms for:
- Uncontested divorces with no children
- Uncontested divorces with children
- Default divorces
- Divorces involving family violence

These forms include step-by-step instructions and are available at TexasLawHelp.org.

Texas State Law Library provides access to divorce form kits and legal research materials:

Texas State Law Library
205 W. 14th Street
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 463-1722
Texas State Law Library

Local law libraries in Coryell County or neighboring counties may maintain form books and self-help materials.

For those seeking professional assistance:

Private attorneys specializing in family law can prepare customized divorce papers. The State Bar of Texas Lawyer Referral Service can provide referrals.
Legal aid organizations serving Coryell County may offer assistance to income-qualified individuals:

Lone Star Legal Aid
300 N. 6th Street
Waco, TX 76701
(800) 733-8394
Lone Star Legal Aid

Document preparation services (not providing legal advice) may assist with form completion for a fee.

Essential divorce papers typically include:

Original Petition for Divorce
Citation or Waiver of Service
Answer and Counter-Petition
Financial Information Statement
Final Decree of Divorce
Child support and custody documents (if applicable)
Property division worksheets

Individuals should ensure that any forms used comply with current Texas law and local court rules. The Texas Judicial Branch website provides information about uniform state forms approved by the Texas Supreme Court.