Divorce records in Contra Costa County, California, can be accessed through several channels. ContraCostaCourt.us can help you find publicly available divorce record information. You can also obtain records directly from the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa, which issued the decree. The Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder handles certain recorded documents, and the California Department of Public Health's Vital Records office maintains divorce certificates at the state level.
Contra Costa Divorce Records Search
Divorce cases in Contra Costa County are handled by the Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa. The court clerk's office maintains the official case files, including divorce decrees, judgments, settlement agreements, custody orders, and related filings. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Vital Records office also keeps a statewide index of divorce certificates, though these are not copies of the actual decree. You can search for civil case information — including family law cases — through the court's online case information portal. For copies of documents or certified records, contact the court records office directly.
Superior Court of Contra Costa County — Court Records (Civil/Family)
Where Divorce Records Are Filed in Contra Costa
In California, divorce (dissolution of marriage) cases are filed in the Superior Court. Contra Costa County has one Superior Court with multiple locations, but family law matters and the resulting divorce decrees are maintained by the court clerk at the Martinez courthouse. After a judge signs the final judgment, the decree becomes part of the permanent court file.
The CDPH Vital Records office independently maintains a statewide record of divorces, but only issues a divorce certificate — a summary document confirming the divorce occurred. It does not include the terms of the settlement, property division, or custody arrangements. Copies of the actual divorce decree can only be obtained from the Superior Court in the county where the divorce took place.
Which office to contact depends on what you need:
- Full divorce decree, settlement agreement, or custody orders — Contact the Superior Court of Contra Costa County clerk's office.
- Divorce certificate (confirmation that a divorce occurred) — Contact the California Department of Public Health, Vital Records.
Superior Court of Contra Costa County — Court Records
California Department of Public Health — Vital Records
Divorce Record Search Fees, Copy Costs, and Processing Times in Contra Costa
| Service | Fee | Typical Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Court record copy (per page, standard) | $0.50 per page | Same day to several business days |
| Certified copy of court document (first page) | $40.00 | Several business days |
| Certified copy of court document (each additional page) | $0.50 per page | Included with request |
| CDPH divorce certificate (certified copy) | $18.00 | Several weeks by mail |
| Mail-in court record request | Applicable copy fees plus self-addressed stamped envelope | 2–4 weeks |