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Sherburne County Divorce Records

What Are Sherburne County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Sherburne County are official legal documents that provide evidence of the dissolution of a marriage within the county's jurisdiction. These records are maintained pursuant to Minnesota Statutes § 518.145, which governs dissolution of marriage proceedings throughout the state. Divorce records consist of various court documents filed during divorce proceedings and the final judgment and decree that legally terminates the marriage.

The Sherburne County District Court maintains these records as part of its family court division. Divorce records typically include:

  • Petition for dissolution of marriage
  • Summons
  • Response to petition
  • Financial affidavits
  • Marital settlement agreements
  • Child custody and support arrangements
  • Property division documents
  • Final judgment and decree of dissolution

These records serve multiple important purposes for individuals and society. Divorce records provide legal proof of marital status change necessary for:

  • Remarriage eligibility verification
  • Legal name change documentation
  • Social Security benefit claims
  • Loan applications requiring marital status verification
  • Immigration proceedings
  • Estate planning and inheritance matters
  • Insurance coverage modifications

Under Minnesota law, divorce records are considered vital records that document significant life events and changes in legal status. The maintenance and accessibility of these records are governed by both state statutes and court administrative rules.

Are Sherburne County Divorce Records Public?

Divorce records in Sherburne County have a nuanced public access status governed by Minnesota Statutes § 13.03, the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, and court rules regarding access to court records. The public accessibility of divorce records depends on the specific document type and information contained therein.

Generally, court divorce case files in Sherburne County are considered public records with important exceptions:

  • Basic case information (parties' names, case number, filing date, and general case status) is publicly accessible.
  • Financial information, including detailed affidavits, may be partially redacted or restricted.
  • Documents containing Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and certain personal identifiers are not publicly accessible.
  • Records involving minor children may have restricted access, particularly when containing sensitive information about the children.

Pursuant to Minnesota Rules of Public Access to Records of the Judicial Branch, certain information in divorce proceedings may be classified as confidential or non-public, including:

  • Records sealed by court order
  • Records containing allegations of sexual abuse
  • Records containing medical, psychological, or counseling information
  • Records containing information about domestic abuse or harassment

Certified divorce certificates and divorce decrees have more restricted access. Only the following individuals may obtain certified copies:

  • Parties to the divorce
  • Legal representatives of the parties
  • Individuals with a court order authorizing access
  • Individuals with a tangible interest as defined by statute

The Minnesota State Court Administrator's Office oversees the policies governing public access to court records, including divorce records, throughout the state.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Sherburne County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in Sherburne County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The following procedures are currently in effect for accessing divorce records:

  1. Visit the Sherburne County District Court in person:

Sherburne County District Court
13880 Business Center Drive NW
Elk River, MN 55330
(763) 765-4600
Sherburne County District Court

Court hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)

  1. Submit a written request for divorce records by mail to the above address. The request should include:

    • Full names of both parties to the divorce
    • Approximate date of divorce (month and year)
    • Case number (if known)
    • Requestor's contact information
    • Copy of requestor's valid photo identification
    • Required fee payment (currently $10 for record search, additional fees for copies)

  2. Complete the Court Records Request Form available on the Minnesota Judicial Branch website.

  3. For certified copies of divorce decrees, individuals must demonstrate legal standing to access the record as specified in Minnesota Statutes. Certified copies currently cost $16 for the first copy and $6 for each additional copy requested simultaneously.

  4. For divorce records older than 10 years, contact:

Minnesota State Archives
Minnesota Historical Society
345 W. Kellogg Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55102
(651) 259-3260
Minnesota State Archives

Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Payment methods accepted include credit cards, money orders, and checks made payable to "Sherburne County District Court." Cash payments are accepted for in-person requests only.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Sherburne County Online?

Sherburne County residents and other authorized individuals may access certain divorce record information through online platforms maintained by the Minnesota Judicial Branch. The following online resources are currently available:

  1. Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO) provides public access to case information, including divorce cases filed in Sherburne County. Users may search by:

    • Party name (first and last name required)
    • Case number
    • Attorney name or bar number
    • Date range

  2. The MCRO system allows users to view:

    • Case register of actions (chronological list of events)
    • Basic party information
    • Scheduled hearings
    • Some non-confidential filed documents

  3. To access documents online through MCRO:

    • Create a free account
    • Accept the terms and conditions
    • Search for the specific divorce case
    • Select "View Documents" for available filings
    • Pay applicable viewing fees ($8 per document currently)

  4. For historical divorce records (pre-2000), online access is limited. The Minnesota Historical Society maintains an index of historical vital records that may help locate divorce record information.

  5. The Minnesota State Law Library provides online guidance for locating divorce decrees throughout Minnesota counties, including Sherburne County.

It is important to note that pursuant to Minnesota Court Rules, certain sensitive information in divorce records may be redacted or unavailable through online access. Complete divorce files, particularly those containing confidential information, generally require in-person inspection at the courthouse or submission of specific requests to the court administrator.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Sherburne County?

Members of the public seeking no-cost access to divorce records in Sherburne County have several options available, though certain limitations apply. The following methods provide free or reduced-cost access to divorce record information:

  1. In-person inspection at the courthouse:

Sherburne County District Court
13880 Business Center Drive NW
Elk River, MN 55330
(763) 765-4600
Sherburne County District Court

Court hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)

Individuals may view non-confidential divorce case files at public access terminals without charge. However, printing copies incurs a fee of $1 per page.

  1. Public law libraries provide free access to court records research tools:

Sherburne County Law Library
13880 Business Center Drive NW
Elk River, MN 55330
(763) 765-4600

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (by appointment)

  1. The Minnesota State Law Library offers free assistance in locating court records, including divorce records, through reference services.

  2. Limited free searches through Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO) allow users to view basic case information at no cost. While document viewing requires payment, case summaries and register of actions are available without charge.

  3. For academic or genealogical research purposes, the Minnesota Historical Society provides access to historical divorce records. While some fees may apply for copies, research assistance is available at no cost.

Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes § 357.021, the court may waive fees for individuals who demonstrate financial hardship by filing an In Forma Pauperis (IFP) application. This fee waiver applies to record search and copy fees for parties to the case who meet financial eligibility requirements.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Sherburne County

Divorce records in Sherburne County comprise comprehensive documentation of the entire dissolution process. These records contain multiple document types that collectively constitute the official record of a marriage dissolution. The following components are typically included:

  1. Initial Filings:

    • Summons and Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
    • Response or Answer to Petition
    • Proof of Service documents
    • Financial Disclosure Forms (Rule 13 disclosures)
    • Preliminary declarations of disclosure

  2. Temporary Orders and Motions:

    • Motions for temporary relief
    • Temporary orders regarding:
      • Child custody and parenting time
      • Child support
      • Spousal maintenance
      • Occupancy of marital residence
      • Payment of debts and expenses

  3. Discovery Documents (may be sealed or restricted):

    • Interrogatories and responses
    • Requests for production of documents
    • Depositions
    • Expert witness reports

  4. Settlement Documents:

    • Marital Termination Agreement (if settled)
    • Parenting Plan (if children involved)
    • Property and Debt Division Agreement
    • Child Support Worksheets

  5. Trial Documents (if applicable):

    • Trial briefs
    • Exhibits
    • Witness lists
    • Court reporter transcripts

  6. Final Judgment:

    • Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law, and Order for Judgment
    • Judgment and Decree of Dissolution of Marriage
    • Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) for division of retirement accounts

  7. Post-Judgment Filings:

    • Motions to modify custody, parenting time, or support
    • Enforcement actions
    • Appeals documentation

The Sherburne County Recorder's Office maintains an abstract of the divorce decree that includes basic information about the dissolution, while the complete case file is maintained by the District Court. The Minnesota Judicial Branch maintains these records in accordance with state record retention schedules and court administrative policies.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Sherburne County?

Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Sherburne County may obtain this documentation through several authorized channels. The following procedures are currently in effect for securing proof of divorce:

  1. Certified Copy of Divorce Decree: The most authoritative proof of divorce is a certified copy of the divorce decree obtained from:

Sherburne County District Court
13880 Business Center Drive NW
Elk River, MN 55330
(763) 765-4600
Sherburne County District Court

To request a certified copy:

  • Submit a written request including both parties' names, approximate divorce date, and case number (if known)
  • Provide proof of identity and legal right to access (for parties to the divorce)
  • Include payment of $16 for the first certified copy and $6 for each additional copy
  • Requests may be submitted in person or by mail with a self-addressed stamped envelope
  1. Certificate of Dissolution: A simplified certificate confirming the divorce is available through:

Minnesota Department of Health
Office of Vital Records
P.O. Box 64499
St. Paul, MN 55164
(651) 201-5970
Minnesota Department of Health

This certificate provides basic information including:

  • Names of parties
  • Date of divorce
  • County where divorce was granted
  • Case number

  1. Court Case Verification Letter: For certain purposes (such as name changes on government documents), a verification letter may be obtained from the court administrator confirming the divorce judgment. This letter typically costs $10.

  2. Online Verification: Limited verification of divorce status is available through the Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO) system, though this does not constitute official proof for most legal purposes.

Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes § 518.146, certified copies of divorce decrees are considered presumptive evidence of the facts stated therein. For international use, certified copies may require additional authentication through apostille or certification from the Minnesota Secretary of State.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Sherburne County?

Divorce proceedings in Sherburne County are generally matters of public record; however, certain mechanisms exist to protect sensitive information and, in limited circumstances, to maintain confidentiality of specific aspects of divorce cases. The following provisions currently govern confidentiality in divorce proceedings:

  1. Sealing Records: Pursuant to Minnesota Rules of Public Access to Records of the Judicial Branch, Rule 4, the court may seal divorce records or specific documents upon motion by either party. To obtain a sealing order, the requesting party must demonstrate:

    • Exceptional circumstances exist that clearly outweigh the public interest in disclosure
    • A substantial likelihood of harm to an individual or public interest if records remain public
    • No reasonable alternative to sealing exists

  2. Automatically Confidential Information: Certain information in divorce files is automatically classified as non-public, including:

    • Social Security numbers
    • Financial account numbers
    • Certain medical and health records
    • Information regarding minor children
    • Victim and witness identity information in cases involving domestic abuse
    • Records related to child abuse allegations

  3. Confidential Name Change: Under Minnesota Statutes § 518.27, a party may request a confidential name change as part of divorce proceedings if they can demonstrate safety concerns.

  4. Alternative Dispute Resolution: Mediation and other alternative dispute resolution proceedings remain confidential pursuant to Minnesota Statutes § 518.619. While the resulting agreements become part of the court record, the discussions and negotiations remain private.

  5. In Camera Review: The court may conduct "in camera" (private) review of sensitive evidence or testimony, particularly in cases involving children or domestic abuse.

  6. Restricted Identifiers: The Minnesota Rules of Civil Procedure, Rule 11 requires parties to file confidential information forms for sensitive identifiers rather than including this information in publicly accessible documents.

It is important to note that complete confidentiality of an entire divorce proceeding is extremely rare and granted only in exceptional circumstances. Parties seeking confidentiality should consult with legal counsel regarding specific protections available under current Minnesota law.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Sherburne County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Sherburne County varies significantly based on multiple factors related to case complexity and the level of agreement between parties. The following timeframes represent current processing periods for dissolution of marriage cases:

  1. Minimum Waiting Period: Minnesota law imposes no mandatory waiting period between filing for divorce and final judgment. However, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes § 518.091, there is a residency requirement that at least one spouse must have been a Minnesota resident for 180 days (6 months) before filing.

  2. Uncontested Divorces: When parties reach full agreement on all issues (property division, custody, support), the process typically takes:

    • 30-60 days for cases without children
    • 60-90 days for cases with children (due to additional required parenting provisions)

  3. Contested Divorces: When parties disagree on significant issues, timeframes extend considerably:

    • 6-9 months for moderately contested cases
    • 12-18 months for highly contested cases involving complex assets or custody disputes
    • 18+ months for cases requiring multiple hearings, extensive discovery, or trial

  4. Early Case Management (ECM): Sherburne County participates in the Minnesota Judicial Branch's Early Case Management program, which establishes the following scheduling targets:

    • Initial Case Management Conference: Within 3-4 weeks of filing
    • Temporary Relief Hearings: Within 4-6 weeks of request
    • Pretrial Conference: Within 6-9 months of filing
    • Trial: Within 12 months of filing

  5. Factors Affecting Timeline:

    • Court calendar congestion
    • Attorney availability
    • Complexity of financial assets requiring valuation
    • Custody evaluations (typically adding 3-4 months)
    • Discovery disputes
    • Mediation or alternative dispute resolution attempts
    • Post-decree motions

According to the Minnesota Judicial Branch Annual Report, the median time to disposition for contested family law cases in the Tenth Judicial District (which includes Sherburne County) is approximately 8.5 months from filing to final judgment.

The court strongly encourages parties to utilize alternative dispute resolution methods, which can significantly reduce the time and expense associated with divorce proceedings.

How Long Does Sherburne County Keep Divorce Records?

Sherburne County maintains divorce records according to the Minnesota Judicial Branch Records Retention Schedule, which establishes specific timeframes for preserving different types of court documents. The following retention periods currently apply to divorce records:

  1. Case Files: Pursuant to Minnesota General Records Retention Schedule for District Courts, divorce case files are retained as follows:

    • Complete case files: Minimum of 10 years after entry of judgment
    • Cases involving real property: Minimum of 20 years after entry of judgment
    • Cases with minor children: Until the youngest child reaches age 28

  2. Judgment and Decree:

    • Permanent retention
    • After the active retention period, these records are transferred to the Minnesota State Archives

  3. Register of Actions:

    • Permanent retention
    • This chronological summary of case events is maintained indefinitely

  4. Financial Records:

    • Support payment records: 20 years after case closure
    • Financial affidavits: 10 years after case closure

  5. Exhibits:

    • 60 days after final disposition if no appeal is filed
    • 60 days after appellate process concludes if appeal is filed
    • Parties must retrieve exhibits within this timeframe or they may be destroyed

  6. Transcripts:

    • Court reporter notes: 10 years
    • Official transcripts filed with the court: Same retention as case file

  7. Historical Records: Divorce records deemed to have historical significance may be preserved permanently by the Minnesota Historical Society, even beyond standard retention periods.

For divorce records that have exceeded their retention period at the courthouse, researchers may need to contact:

Minnesota State Archives
Minnesota Historical Society
345 W. Kellogg Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55102
(651) 259-3260
Minnesota State Archives

The Minnesota State Court Administrator's Office oversees records management policies for all district courts, including Sherburne County, and may authorize changes to retention schedules based on administrative needs and available technology.

How To Get a Divorce In Sherburne County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Sherburne County must follow specific procedures established by Minnesota law and local court rules. The following process outlines the current steps required to obtain a divorce:

  1. Meet Residency Requirements:

    • At least one spouse must have been a Minnesota resident for a minimum of 180 days (6 months) immediately preceding the filing, as required by Minnesota Statutes § 518.07
    • The petition should be filed in the county where either spouse resides

  2. Prepare and File Initial Documents: The following forms must be filed with the court:

    • Summons and Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
    • Financial Disclosure Form
    • Confidential Information Form
    • Certificate of Representation and Parties
    • Filing fee payment ($365 currently) or Fee Waiver Application (IFP)

    These documents are filed at:

Sherburne County District Court
13880 Business Center Drive NW
Elk River, MN 55330
(763) 765-4600
Sherburne County District Court

  1. Serve Documents on Spouse:

    • The non-filing spouse must be properly served with the Summons and Petition
    • Service may be accomplished by:
      • Personal service by sheriff or process server
      • Acceptance of service (spouse signs an acknowledgment)
      • Alternative service if ordered by the court
    • Proof of service must be filed with the court

  2. Response Period:

    • The served spouse has 30 days to file a written Answer
    • If no Answer is filed, the case may proceed by default

  3. Initial Case Management Conference (ICMC):

    • Typically scheduled 3-4 weeks after filing
    • Both parties and attorneys must attend
    • The court will establish deadlines and may order:
      • Mediation or Early Neutral Evaluation
      • Parenting education classes (if children involved)
      • Temporary orders regarding custody, support, or property

  4. Discovery and Negotiation:

    • Exchange of financial information
    • Valuation of assets and debts
    • Custody evaluations (if applicable)
    • Settlement negotiations or mediation

  5. Pre-Trial Conference:

    • Scheduled if settlement is not reached
    • Court reviews outstanding issues and trial readiness

  6. Trial:

    • Presentation of evidence and testimony
    • Judge issues Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law, and Order for Judgment

  7. Final Judgment:

    • Judgment and Decree of Dissolution is entered
    • Marriage is legally terminated
    • Court orders regarding property, custody, and support become effective

Sherburne County provides Self-Help Center resources for individuals proceeding without an attorney. Additionally, the Minnesota Judicial Branch offers standardized forms for divorce proceedings.

How To Get Divorce Papers In Sherburne County

Individuals seeking to initiate divorce proceedings in Sherburne County have several options for obtaining the necessary legal forms. The following resources are currently available for accessing divorce papers:

  1. Minnesota Judicial Branch Website: The Minnesota Judicial Branch provides comprehensive divorce form packets online, including:

    • Divorce with Children
    • Divorce without Children
    • Summary Dissolution (simplified process for marriages meeting specific criteria)
    • Default Divorce
    • Joint Petition for Dissolution

    These forms include detailed instructions and are regularly updated to comply with current law.

  2. In-Person at the Courthouse:

Sherburne County District Court
13880 Business Center Drive NW
Elk River, MN 55330
(763) 765-4600
Sherburne County District Court

Court hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)

The court provides public terminals where forms can be accessed and printed for a nominal fee.

  1. Self-Help Center: The Minnesota Courts Self-Help Center offers assistance with divorce forms:

    • Phone: (651) 435-6535
    • Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM
    • Online help

  2. Law Library:

Sherburne County Law Library
13880 Business Center Drive NW
Elk River, MN 55330
(763) 765-4600

The law library maintains reference materials and form books for divorce proceedings.

  1. Legal Aid Services:

Central Minnesota Legal Services
110 6th Avenue South, Suite 200
St. Cloud, MN 56301
(320) 253-0121
Central Minnesota Legal Services

Provides assistance to income-eligible individuals.

  1. By Mail: Forms can be requested by mail from the court administrator's office by sending a written request with:
    • Specific forms needed
    • Self-addressed stamped envelope
    • Check or money order for applicable fees

When obtaining divorce papers, individuals should verify they have the most current versions, as forms are periodically updated to reflect changes in Minnesota law. The Minnesota State Law Library provides additional resources for understanding the divorce process and required documentation.

Lookup Divorce Records in Sherburne County

Case Search - Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO)

Divorce Decree / Minnesota State Law Library

Sherburne County District Court

Court Records / Minnesota State Law Library

Access Case Records

Recorder | Sherburne County, MN

Public Records | Sherburne County, MN

Case Search - Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO)

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