I got divorced 20 years ago but I cannot find my Decree Absolute. What can I do?

The Courts have evolved greatly over the last 20 years, and it is now possible to receive all documents in relation to your divorce electronically. This was not, however, always the case and often results in important documents such as a Decree Absolute getting lost or mislaid. There is, however, a Central Index which contains all records of Decree Absolute granted in England and Wales since 1858. 

Here are some helpful tips to obtain a copy of your Decree Absolute:

• Identify the Court. If you can remember which Court dealt with your divorce, you can apply directly to them and request a copy. Try to include as much detail as possible such as the case number, the names of the parties. There are currently costs associated with this application. 
• Apply to the Central Family Court. You must provide as much detail as possible including the names of the parties, date of the marriage, when the divorce was applied for and the year within which you think the Decree Absolute was granted. A search will then be carried out 5 years either side of that date. There is currently a fee for each 10 year period searched. 
• Online application. You can also make an application online using the government’s official website. 

The speed within which you get your Decree Absolute will depend on the Court’s processing time and workload, the ease of locating the documents and the service you have applied for (e.g. expedited options, if applicable). 

If you would like advice on any of the issues raised in this article, please contact Irrum Shah, Solicitor in our Family Law Department on 01295 204154, or by email at ishah@se-solicitors.co.uk