Hennepin County marriage and divorce records provide official proof of life events such as marriage and separation, serving as important documents for both personal and legal purposes. These records are maintained under Minnesota’s public record laws, allowing residents to access copies for identification, legal filings, genealogy research, or personal verification. Each document includes essential details such as full names, dates, and places where the event occurred. Whether you need a certified marriage certificate for a passport application or a divorce decree for updating your legal status, these records ensure accuracy and authenticity.
Under Minnesota law, marriage and divorce records are considered public vital records, meaning they are available to eligible requesters through the Hennepin County Recorder’s Office and the Minnesota Department of Health. Residents can request copies online, by mail, or in person, depending on their needs. By offering secure access and clear procedures, Hennepin County makes it easier for individuals to find and request the records they need without delays. Below, you’ll find detailed steps on how to search, verify, and request Hennepin County marriage records, divorce decrees, or other Minnesota vital records directly from official sources.
What Are Marriage and Divorce Records?
Marriage and divorce records are official public documents that help confirm a person’s marital history. These records are commonly used for legal, genealogical, and personal purposes. They verify whether a marriage took place or ended through a court-approved divorce decree.
Marriage Records
Marriage records serve as legal proof that two individuals were officially married. They are maintained by the county’s Vital Records Division or the Clerk of Court, depending on the location.
A typical marriage record or marriage certificate includes:
- The full names of both applicants
- The date the marriage license was applied for
- The official date of marriage
- The location where the marriage ceremony occurred
- The officiant’s name and witness details (if available)
These records can be requested for personal reference, name changes, or legal verification. According to the Hennepin County Records Center:
“Marriage records can be requested from the Vital Records Division. Information with marriage records includes the parties that applied, date applied, and the date of marriage.”
When requesting a certified copy of a marriage certificate, users typically need to provide valid identification and the full names of both parties as they appeared on the license.
Divorce Records
Divorce records provide official details about the legal dissolution of a marriage. They are stored by the District Court Records Center, which handles all family law cases, including divorce filings.
A standard divorce record or divorce decree copy may include:
- Names of both parties involved
- Case number and filing date
- The final divorce decree issued by the court
- Terms of property and asset division
- Child custody and visitation arrangements
- Financial support or alimony details
As mentioned by Hennepin County’s official source:
“Divorce records can be requested from the 4th District Court Records Center.”
These documents are often required for legal name restoration, remarriage, or verifying the end of a previous marriage. Certified copies are available upon request, and access may depend on the privacy level of the case.
How to Obtain Marriage Records in Hennepin County
If you need proof of marriage for legal, personal, or research purposes, you can request a marriage record directly through the Hennepin County Vital Records Division. The process is straightforward, with options to apply online, by mail, or in person depending on your preference.
Requesting Marriage Certificates
The Hennepin County Vital Records Office maintains official copies of marriage certificates for ceremonies that took place within the county. You can submit your request through one of the following methods:
1. Online Request
Residents can order a certified copy of a marriage certificate through the county’s official online portal. You’ll be asked to provide:
- The full names of both parties as listed on the marriage license
- The date and location of the marriage
- A valid ID or a notarized statement for verification
Online orders typically process within a few business days, with delivery options via mail.
2. Mail Request
You can also request a marriage certificate by mailing a completed application form along with a photocopy of your valid government-issued ID and the required fee.
Mailing Address:
Hennepin County Vital Records
300 South Sixth Street, MC-026
Minneapolis, MN 55487-0026
Phone: 612-348-8919
Make checks or money orders payable to “Hennepin County Treasurer.” Include a self-addressed stamped envelope to speed up the return.
3. In-Person Request
For faster service, you can visit the office directly at the address above during regular business hours. Bring a valid ID and complete the marriage record request form on-site. Most in-person requests are processed the same day.
Fees:
- Certified copy: around $9–$10 per record
- Additional copies: discounted rate per request
(Payment options include cash, check, or card.)
Reasons for Requesting Marriage Records
People request marriage certificates for many purposes beyond simple recordkeeping. Common reasons include:
- Insurance and Legal Documentation
Proof of marriage is often required for updating health insurance, tax filings, or legal name changes. - Genealogy or Historical Research
Family historians often use official marriage records to trace lineage or verify ancestral details. - Name Change After Marriage
Newlyweds typically need a certified marriage certificate to update identification, bank accounts, and other official documents.
How to Obtain Divorce Records in Hennepin County
If you need proof of a divorce for legal, financial, or personal reasons, you can request official divorce records through the Hennepin County 4th District Court Records Center. These documents provide confirmation that a marriage was legally dissolved and may be used for a variety of purposes, including name restoration, remarriage, or court verification.
Divorce Decrees and Certificates
When requesting divorce documentation, it’s helpful to understand the difference between a divorce decree and a divorce certificate.
- Divorce Decree:
A divorce decree is the full, detailed judgment issued by the court. It includes the official terms of the divorce, such as child custody arrangements, property division, alimony, and other orders made by the judge. As noted by Hennepin County’s records information: “A divorce decree shows the specific terms of a divorce…” - Divorce Certificate:
A divorce certificate is a shorter summary document that confirms a divorce was finalized. It lists the names of both parties, the date, and the location of the final judgment. This version is often needed for name changes or remarriage.
Both records serve different purposes, so it’s important to request the correct one based on your needs.
Where to Request Divorce Records
Official divorce records are maintained by the 4th District Court Records Center. This office provides both certified and uncertified copies upon request.
Office Information:
4th District Court Records Center
300 South 6th Street, #SK-0260
Minneapolis, MN 55487-0332
1. Online Request
You can request divorce decrees or certificates through the Minnesota Judicial Branch’s online records portal. To search, you’ll need:
- The full names of both parties involved
- The approximate year the divorce was filed or finalized
- A case number, if available
After locating the record, follow the online steps to request a certified or uncertified copy. Processing times may vary depending on the record’s age and availability.
2. Mail Request
If you prefer, you can submit a written request by mail. Include the following:
- A completed records request form
- The case number or party names
- A photocopy of your government-issued ID
- Payment for the copy fee
Mail your request to the 4th District Court Records Center at the address above.
Fees:
- Certified copies: around $14–$16 per record
- Uncertified copies: typically lower cost per page
(Fees may vary based on the number of pages or certification requirements.)
Payments can usually be made by check or money order payable to “District Court Administrator.”
Certified vs. Uncertified Copies
- Certified Copies are stamped and sealed by the court, making them valid for legal or official use—such as court filings, government requests, or remarriage documentation.
- Uncertified Copies are for personal reference, background research, or recordkeeping.
Accessing Records Online and Through the Portal
Hennepin County provides a convenient way for residents to access marriage and divorce records online through its secure digital portals. This option saves time and allows users to search from anywhere, whether they’re looking for a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or a general case record.
How to Search for Records Online
To find your record, visit the Hennepin County Public Records Search Portal or the Minnesota Judicial Branch’s online access system. Once there, you can search by:
- Full name of either party involved
- Case number (if known)
- Record type (marriage or divorce)
- Date range of the event
After the search, you can view basic case details and request a certified copy directly through the portal.
Use our secure online portal to search public records by name or case number.
This option works well for quick lookups and formal document requests without needing to visit the courthouse in person.
Availability and Time Frame
- Marriage Records: Online records typically cover marriages filed in Hennepin County from the early 1970s to the present. Older records may be archived and require an in-person or mail request.
- Divorce Records: Electronic divorce case files are usually available from 1990 onward. Cases before that period may only exist in paper form within the court’s archives.
Because of privacy laws, certain information—such as sealed or confidential family cases—will not appear in online searches.
Processing and Delivery
Once your online request is submitted, most certified copies are processed within 5–10 business days, depending on record type and delivery preference. You can choose to receive the document by mail or pick it up in person at the respective office once notified.
Fees and Processing Time
Understanding the costs and processing times for obtaining marriage and divorce records in Hennepin County helps you plan your request efficiently. Fees vary depending on whether you need a certified copy or an uncertified copy, and processing times differ based on the method of request.
Marriage Records Fees
- Certified Marriage Certificate: $9–$10 per copy
- Uncertified/Informational Copy: $5–$6 per copy
Processing Time:
- In-person: Usually processed the same day
- Online: 5–10 business days for delivery
- Mail: 7–14 business days, depending on postal service
Divorce Records Fees
- Certified Divorce Decree or Certificate: $14–$16 per copy
- Uncertified Copy: Lower cost, typically $5–$10 per page
Processing Time:
- In-person: Same-day processing available
- Online: 5–10 business days for certified copies
- Mail: 7–14 business days depending on record type and postal delivery
Certified vs. Uncertified Copies
- Certified Copies: Officially stamped and sealed by the records office, suitable for legal purposes, name changes, remarriage, or court submissions.
- Uncertified Copies: For personal reference, genealogy research, or general verification; not valid for official legal use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below you’ll find detailed answers to common questions about accessing, viewing, and requesting Hennepin County court records. These responses are designed to help residents, attorneys, and researchers quickly find reliable information without confusion.
How do I find marriage records in Hennepin County, MN?
You can find marriage records through the Hennepin County Vital Records Division. Requests can be made online, by mail, or in person at their office. Providing full names, the date of marriage, and location helps ensure your request is processed quickly. Certified copies are available for legal purposes, while informational copies can be used for personal research.
Are Minnesota marriage records public?
Yes, most marriage records in Minnesota are public and accessible to anyone. Some older or restricted records may require proof of relationship or legal interest before release. Public records include basic details such as names, marriage date, and location. This ensures transparency while protecting sensitive information when necessary.
How long does it take to get a copy of a divorce decree?
Processing time depends on the request method. In-person requests are often processed the same day, while online requests take about 5–10 business days. Mail requests may take 7–14 business days depending on delivery and the age of the record. Planning ahead helps avoid delays if the record is needed for legal purposes.
Can I search for Hennepin County divorce records online?
Yes, divorce records can be searched through the Minnesota Judicial Branch online portal. You can search using names, case numbers, or filing dates. Once located, you can request either a certified or uncertified copy depending on your needs. Some older cases may only be available in paper format at the court.
What’s the cost for certified marriage certificates?
Certified marriage certificates typically cost between $9 and $10 per copy. Uncertified or informational copies are usually less expensive. Fees may vary depending on the number of copies requested or additional services like expedited processing. Payment methods include credit card, check, or money order.
Where are divorce decrees stored in Minnesota?
Divorce decrees in Hennepin County are maintained by the 4th District Court Records Center. The office keeps detailed case files, including custody, asset division, and financial support orders. Certified copies can be obtained directly from the center for legal or official purposes. Access may vary depending on case confidentiality.
Can I request someone else’s marriage record?
Yes, marriage records are public, so you can request copies for another person. Certified copies may require proper identification or a stated reason for the request. Some records may have privacy restrictions if they are older or involve sensitive family matters. Always check requirements before submitting your request.