Coweta County Divorce Records
What Are Coweta County Divorce Records?
Divorce records in Coweta County are official legal documents maintained by the Superior Court that document the dissolution of marriage between two individuals. These records are created and maintained pursuant to Georgia Code § 19-5-1, which governs divorce proceedings in the state. Divorce records typically consist of multiple documents filed throughout the divorce process, from the initial petition to the final decree.
The Coweta County Superior Court Clerk's Office serves as the official custodian of these records. As legal documents, divorce records serve several important functions:
- Legal proof of marital status change
- Documentation required for remarriage
- Evidence for name change processes
- Verification for Social Security benefits
- Supporting documentation for loan applications
- Required evidence for immigration matters
- Proof for insurance and pension benefit changes
Divorce records contain sensitive personal information about the parties involved, including financial data, child custody arrangements, and the grounds for divorce. Due to the personal nature of this information, access to certain components of divorce records may be restricted in accordance with Georgia law.
Coweta County Superior Court Clerk
72 Greenville Street
Newnan, GA 30263
770-254-2615
Coweta County Superior Court Clerk
Are Coweta County Divorce Records Public?
Divorce records in Coweta County have a complex public access status. Generally, court divorce case files are considered public records under the Georgia Open Records Act § 50-18-70, which establishes the public's right to access government records. However, this access is subject to important limitations and exceptions.
The public accessibility of divorce records can be categorized as follows:
-
Court Divorce Case Files: Basic information such as parties' names, case numbers, and filing dates are typically available to the public. Members of the public may access these records through the Coweta County Superior Court Clerk's Office.
-
Sensitive Information: Certain information within divorce records may be redacted or sealed, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Financial account numbers
- Children's identifying information
- Allegations of domestic violence
- Medical and psychological evaluations
-
Certified Divorce Certificates: These official documents verifying the dissolution of marriage have restricted access. Only the following individuals may obtain certified copies:
- Parties to the divorce
- Legal representatives of the parties
- Individuals with a legitimate legal interest
- Individuals with a court order authorizing access
In some cases, divorce proceedings may be conducted under seal by court order, particularly when the case involves:
- Minor children
- Domestic violence concerns
- High-profile individuals
- Sensitive financial information
The Georgia Supreme Court has established that while court records are presumptively open to the public, this presumption may be overcome when the public's right to access is outweighed by privacy concerns or other compelling interests, as noted in Georgia Uniform Superior Court Rule 21.
How To Find a Divorce Record In Coweta County in 2026
Finding divorce records in Coweta County requires following specific procedures depending on the type of record needed and the purpose of the request. Currently, individuals seeking divorce records may utilize the following methods:
In-Person Requests at the Superior Court Clerk's Office:
- Visit the Coweta County Superior Court Clerk's Office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM).
- Complete a records request form, providing the names of both parties and approximate date of divorce.
- Present valid government-issued photo identification.
- Pay the applicable search and copy fees ($10.00 for record search, $1.00 per page for copies, $2.50 for certification).
- For certified copies, provide documentation establishing legal right to access.
Mail Requests:
- Download and complete the Records Request Form from the Coweta County Superior Court website.
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
- Enclose a money order or cashier's check for applicable fees.
- Mail the request to:
Coweta County Superior Court Clerk
72 Greenville Street
Newnan, GA 30263
770-254-2615
Coweta County Superior Court Clerk
Vital Records Office Requests (for certified divorce certificates only):
- Visit the Georgia Department of Public Health Vital Records Office or the Coweta County Health Department.
- Complete the application for certified divorce certificate.
- Provide proper identification and documentation of eligibility.
- Pay the required fee ($10.00 for first copy, $5.00 for each additional copy).
Coweta County Health Department
70 Hospital Road
Newnan, GA 30263
770-254-7400
Coweta County Health Department
Under Georgia Code § 19-5-10, divorce records must be maintained by the clerk of the superior court where the divorce was granted. Requests must specify sufficient information to locate the record, including full names of both parties and approximate date of divorce.
How To Look Up Divorce Records in Coweta County Online?
Coweta County offers limited online access to divorce records through several digital platforms. The following methods are currently available for conducting online searches:
Georgia Superior Court Clerks' Cooperative Authority (GSCCCA):
- Visit the GSCCCA website.
- Create a user account and pay the subscription fee.
- Select "Coweta County" from the county dropdown menu.
- Choose "Civil Records" search option.
- Enter search criteria such as party names and date range.
- Review search results for relevant divorce cases.
Coweta County Superior Court Online Records Portal:
- Access the Coweta County Courts Online Records Portal.
- Select "Case Search" from the available options.
- Enter search parameters (names, case numbers, or date ranges).
- Review results for divorce cases (designated as "Dissolution of Marriage").
- Note that only basic case information is available; full documents require in-person requests.
E-Access to Court Records:
- Visit the Georgia Courts E-Access portal.
- Select Coweta County from the available jurisdictions.
- Follow the instructions to search for specific divorce cases.
- Note that user registration may be required, and fees may apply.
Important limitations of online divorce record searches include:
- Only basic case information is typically available (names, case numbers, filing dates)
- Complete case files and documents generally require in-person requests
- Records prior to certain dates may not be digitized
- Sealed or restricted cases will not appear in public online searches
- Online systems may have scheduled maintenance periods
For comprehensive divorce record information, including certified copies and complete case files, in-person requests at the Coweta County Superior Court Clerk's Office remain the most reliable method.
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Coweta County?
While obtaining certified copies of divorce records in Coweta County typically involves fees, several options exist for accessing basic divorce record information at no cost:
Public Access Terminals at the Courthouse:
- Visit the Coweta County Superior Court Clerk's Office during regular business hours.
- Request to use the public access computer terminals.
- Search for divorce cases using party names or case numbers.
- View basic case information at no charge.
- Note that printing or obtaining copies will incur standard fees.
Coweta County Law Library:
- Visit the Law Library located within the Coweta County Justice Center.
- Request assistance from the law librarian to access public court records.
- Use available resources to search for divorce case information.
- Review publicly available case indexes and dockets.
Coweta County Law Library
72 Greenville Street
Newnan, GA 30263
770-254-2646
Coweta County Law Library
Georgia Superior Court Clerks' Cooperative Authority (GSCCCA) Index Search:
- Visit the GSCCCA website.
- Use the free index search function to locate basic case information.
- Note that while index searches are free, accessing full documents requires a paid subscription.
Local Public Library Resources:
- Visit the Coweta County Public Library.
- Use public computers to access legal research databases.
- Request assistance from librarians for guidance on accessing public records.
Coweta County Public Library
85 Literary Lane
Newnan, GA 30265
770-683-2052
Coweta County Public Library
It is important to note that while basic information may be accessed for free, the following limitations apply:
- Certified copies always require payment of statutory fees
- Complete case files typically require copy fees
- Staff research assistance may involve service fees
- Records that have been sealed or restricted will not be accessible
- Older records may require additional search fees
Pursuant to Georgia Code § 15-6-77, which establishes fees for superior court services, certain statutory fees cannot be waived except in cases of demonstrated indigence with court approval.
What's Included in a Divorce Records In Coweta County
Divorce records in Coweta County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the entire divorce proceeding. These records typically contain the following components:
Petition for Divorce:
- Names and addresses of both parties
- Date and location of marriage
- Grounds for divorce (no-fault or fault-based)
- Statement regarding residency requirements
- Information about minor children, if applicable
- Requested relief (property division, alimony, child support)
Financial Affidavits:
- Detailed income information for both parties
- Asset and liability disclosures
- Monthly expense statements
- Tax returns and supporting financial documentation
Child-Related Documents (if applicable):
- Parenting plans
- Child support worksheets
- Custody and visitation arrangements
- Child support orders
Property Settlement Agreements:
- Division of real property
- Allocation of personal property
- Distribution of financial accounts
- Assignment of debts and liabilities
- Pension and retirement account divisions
Court Orders and Judgments:
- Temporary orders during pendency of divorce
- Final judgment and decree of divorce
- Name change orders
- Qualified domestic relations orders (QDROs)
Procedural Documents:
- Proof of service
- Court hearing notices
- Motions and responses
- Transcripts of proceedings
- Mediation agreements
Final Decree of Divorce:
- Official court order terminating the marriage
- Final determinations on all contested issues
- Judge's signature and date of dissolution
- Terms and conditions of the divorce settlement
The content and extent of divorce records vary based on whether the divorce was contested or uncontested, the presence of minor children, and the complexity of property division. Under Georgia law, certain sensitive information may be redacted from public versions of these documents, including Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and children's identifying information.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In Coweta County?
Obtaining official proof of divorce in Coweta County requires following specific procedures depending on the type of documentation needed. The following methods are currently available:
Certified Copy of Final Divorce Decree from Superior Court Clerk:
- Visit the Coweta County Superior Court Clerk's Office in person.
- Complete the records request form with the following information:
- Full names of both parties as they appear on the divorce decree
- Approximate date of divorce
- Case number (if known)
- Present valid government-issued photo identification.
- Pay the certification fee ($2.50 per certification plus $1.00 per page).
- For mail requests, send a completed request form, copy of ID, self-addressed stamped envelope, and payment to:
Coweta County Superior Court Clerk
72 Greenville Street
Newnan, GA 30263
770-254-2615
Coweta County Superior Court Clerk
Certificate of Divorce from Vital Records:
- Visit the Georgia Department of Public Health Vital Records Office or the Coweta County Health Department.
- Complete the Application for Certified Divorce Certificate.
- Provide proper identification and documentation of eligibility.
- Pay the required fee ($10.00 for first copy, $5.00 for each additional copy).
- For mail requests, send the application, copy of ID, and payment to:
Georgia Department of Public Health - Vital Records
1680 Phoenix Boulevard, Suite 100
Atlanta, GA 30349
404-679-4702
Georgia Department of Public Health Vital Records
Apostille or Authentication for International Use:
- First obtain a certified copy of the divorce decree from the Coweta County Superior Court Clerk.
- Submit the certified copy to the Georgia Secretary of State's office for apostille or authentication.
- Include the required application and fee ($3.00 per document).
- For international use, specify the country where the document will be used.
Georgia Secretary of State - Apostille Division
2 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive SE
Suite 313 West Tower
Atlanta, GA 30334
844-753-7825
Georgia Secretary of State Apostille Services
Pursuant to Georgia Code § 19-5-14, certified copies of divorce decrees serve as prima facie evidence of divorce in all courts and administrative proceedings in Georgia.
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Coweta County?
While divorce proceedings in Coweta County are generally matters of public record, certain mechanisms exist to maintain confidentiality for sensitive information or entire cases under specific circumstances. The following provisions for confidentiality are currently available:
Sealing of Records by Court Order:
- Parties may petition the court to seal divorce records pursuant to Georgia Uniform Superior Court Rule 21.
- The court must find that the public interest in access is outweighed by privacy concerns or other compelling factors.
- Grounds for sealing may include:
- Protection of minor children
- Prevention of identity theft
- Safeguarding victims of domestic violence
- Protection of sensitive financial or proprietary information
- Prevention of stalking or harassment
Redaction of Sensitive Information:
- Certain personal identifiers are automatically redacted from public versions of court filings, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Financial account numbers
- Dates of birth
- Names of minor children
- Medical and psychological records
Domestic Violence Protections:
- In cases involving domestic violence, Georgia Code § 19-13-3 provides for confidentiality protections.
- Victims' addresses and contact information may be sealed.
- Protective orders may be issued to prevent disclosure of sensitive information.
Alternative Dispute Resolution:
- Mediation and arbitration proceedings remain confidential.
- Settlement agreements reached through mediation may be filed under seal with court approval.
- Only the final decree becomes part of the public record, potentially omitting sensitive details.
Filing Under Pseudonyms:
- In exceptional circumstances, the court may permit parties to file using initials or pseudonyms.
- This option is typically reserved for cases involving:
- Minors
- Sexual abuse victims
- Individuals at risk of harm if their identity is disclosed
It is important to note that complete confidentiality of divorce proceedings is rare and granted only in exceptional circumstances. The Georgia Supreme Court has consistently held that court records are presumptively open to public inspection, and the burden of proving the need for confidentiality rests with the party seeking to restrict access.
Parties seeking confidentiality should consult with legal counsel to determine the appropriate mechanisms available for their specific circumstances.
How Long Does a Divorce Take In Coweta County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in Coweta County varies significantly based on several factors. Currently, the following timeframes and influencing factors apply:
Minimum Statutory Waiting Period:
- Georgia law imposes a mandatory 30-day waiting period from the date of filing before a divorce can be finalized.
- This period begins after the non-filing spouse has been properly served with divorce papers.
Uncontested Divorces:
- When both parties agree on all issues (property division, child custody, support, etc.)
- Typically finalized within 31-60 days after filing
- May be expedited if both parties sign a settlement agreement at the time of filing
- According to Coweta County Superior Court statistics, approximately 40% of divorces are resolved as uncontested
Contested Divorces:
- When parties disagree on one or more substantive issues
- Average timeframe: 6-12 months
- Complex cases involving significant assets or custody disputes: 12-24 months
- Factors that extend timeline:
- Discovery disputes
- Expert witness evaluations
- Court calendar congestion
- Temporary hearings
- Mediation sessions
Specific Procedural Timeframes:
- Service of process: 5-30 days
- Answer period: 30 days from service
- Discovery phase: 3-6 months
- Mediation: 1-3 months
- Final hearing scheduling: 30-90 days after readiness
Factors Affecting Duration:
- Judicial caseload in Coweta County Superior Court
- Complexity of assets requiring valuation
- Child custody evaluations
- Availability of required financial documentation
- Willingness of parties to negotiate
- Attorney scheduling conflicts
- Court-ordered parenting seminars or evaluations
According to the Administrative Office of the Georgia Courts, the average time to disposition for domestic relations cases in Georgia's Coweta Judicial Circuit is approximately 180 days, though individual cases may vary significantly from this average.
Parties seeking the most expeditious resolution should consider:
- Filing all required documentation completely and accurately
- Participating in early mediation
- Promptly responding to discovery requests
- Considering collaborative divorce processes
- Maintaining realistic expectations regarding outcomes
How Long Does Coweta County Keep Divorce Records?
Coweta County maintains divorce records according to Georgia's records retention schedules, which establish specific timeframes for preserving different types of court documents. The following retention periods currently apply:
Permanent Retention:
- Final Judgments and Decrees of Divorce
- Orders modifying original decrees
- Case indexes and dockets
- Property settlement agreements incorporated into final decrees
These records are maintained permanently in accordance with Georgia Code § 15-6-62, which requires superior court clerks to preserve certain records indefinitely.
Long-Term Retention (75+ Years):
- Complete case files for divorces involving:
- Real property divisions
- Pension or retirement account divisions
- Child custody determinations
- Alimony or child support obligations
Medium-Term Retention (15-25 Years):
- Supporting documentation in uncontested divorces without children
- Financial affidavits and discovery materials
- Temporary orders that were superseded by final judgments
- Guardian ad litem reports
Conversion to Digital Format:
- The Coweta County Superior Court Clerk's Office has implemented a digitization program for court records.
- Records from approximately 1985 to present have been digitized.
- Older records are being progressively converted to digital format.
- Once digitized, records are maintained in electronic format indefinitely.
Archival Transfer:
- Records of historical significance may be transferred to the Georgia Archives.
- Records over 75 years old may be microfilmed and/or digitized for preservation.
- Original paper records may be destroyed after proper conversion to archival media.
The Georgia Records Act and the Georgia Superior Court Clerks' Cooperative Authority establish standards for records management that Coweta County follows. While certain supporting documents may be destroyed after prescribed periods, the fundamental record of the divorce—the final decree—is maintained permanently.
Individuals seeking older divorce records should note that the format and accessibility may vary based on the age of the record, with older records potentially requiring additional search time and possibly incurring higher retrieval fees.
How To Get a Divorce In Coweta County
Obtaining a divorce in Coweta County requires following specific legal procedures established by Georgia law. The current process includes these essential steps:
Residency Requirements:
- Either spouse must have been a Georgia resident for at least six months before filing.
- The petition should be filed in the defendant's county of residence or, if the defendant is a non-resident, in the plaintiff's county of residence.
Initiating the Divorce Process:
- Prepare and file a Petition for Divorce with the Coweta County Superior Court Clerk's Office.
- Include the following required forms:
- Domestic Relations Case Filing Information Form
- Standing Order
- Verification Form
- Financial Affidavit (if children or financial issues are involved)
- Child Support Worksheet (if children are involved)
- Pay the filing fee (currently $214.00, subject to change).
- Fee waivers may be available for indigent parties through an Affidavit of Indigence.
Coweta County Superior Court Clerk
72 Greenville Street
Newnan, GA 30263
770-254-2615
Coweta County Superior Court Clerk
Service of Process:
- The non-filing spouse must be formally served with the divorce papers.
- Service options include:
- Sheriff's service ($50.00 fee)
- Private process server (fees vary)
- Acknowledgment of Service (if spouse agrees to accept papers)
- Publication (if spouse cannot be located)
Response Period:
- The served spouse has 30 days to file an Answer (45 days if served by publication).
- Failure to respond may result in a default judgment.
Mandatory Waiting Period:
- Georgia law requires a minimum 30-day waiting period from filing before a divorce can be finalized.
Uncontested Divorce Process:
- If both parties agree on all issues, prepare a Settlement Agreement.
- File the agreement with the court.
- Schedule a final hearing (may be waived in some uncontested cases).
- Obtain the Final Judgment and Decree of Divorce.
Contested Divorce Process:
- Complete the discovery phase (exchange of information).
- Attend temporary hearings for interim issues if necessary.
- Participate in mandatory mediation through the Coweta Judicial Circuit Alternative Dispute Resolution Program.
- Prepare for and attend trial if settlement is not reached.
- Receive the Final Judgment and Decree of Divorce.
Additional Requirements for Cases Involving Children:
- Complete a parenting seminar (currently $30.00 per parent).
- Submit a detailed Parenting Plan.
- Complete Child Support Worksheets.
Divorce proceedings in Coweta County are governed by Georgia Code Title 19, Chapter 5, which establishes the legal framework for dissolution of marriage in the state.
How To Get Divorce Papers In Coweta County
Obtaining divorce papers in Coweta County can be accomplished through several methods, depending on individual circumstances and needs. The following options are currently available:
Coweta County Superior Court Clerk's Office:
- Visit the Clerk's Office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM).
- Request divorce packet forms from the clerk.
- Basic divorce packets are available for a nominal fee (approximately $5.00).
- Forms provided typically include:
- Petition for Divorce
- Verification
- Domestic Relations Case Filing Information Form
- Standing Order
- Financial Affidavit
- Final Judgment and Decree
Coweta County Superior Court Clerk
72 Greenville Street
Newnan, GA 30263
770-254-2615
Coweta County Superior Court Clerk
Coweta County Law Library:
- Visit the Law Library located within the Coweta County Justice Center.
- Access divorce form packets available for public use.
- Utilize reference materials and resources for completing forms.
- Photocopying services available for a per-page fee.
Coweta County Law Library
72 Greenville Street
Newnan, GA 30263
770-254-2646
Coweta County Law Library
Online Resources:
- Access standardized Georgia divorce forms through the Georgia Judicial Council's website.
- Download forms specific to the Coweta Judicial Circuit from the Coweta County Superior Court website.
- Print completed forms for filing with the court.
Legal Aid Organizations:
- Contact Georgia Legal Aid for assistance with divorce paperwork.
- Eligibility for services is typically based on income guidelines.
- Services may include form completion assistance and legal advice.
Georgia Legal Aid
104 Marietta Street NW, Suite 250
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-524-5811
Georgia Legal Aid
Private Attorneys:
- Consult with a family law attorney practicing in Coweta County.
- Attorneys can prepare customized divorce papers tailored to specific circumstances.
- Legal fees vary based on complexity and attorney experience.
Important considerations when obtaining divorce papers:
- Different forms are required for contested versus uncontested divorces
- Additional forms are necessary for cases involving children
- Financial disclosure forms are required for property division and support issues
- Forms must comply with Georgia Code § 19-5-5, which establishes requirements for divorce petitions
While forms are readily available, individuals are advised to seek legal counsel regarding the completion and filing of divorce papers, as errors may result in delays or dismissal of the case.