Forsyth County divorce records are official legal documents that show the final end of a marriage. These records exist in two U.S. locations: Forsyth County, North Carolina, and Forsyth County, Georgia. Each state maintains separate systems, fees, and procedures. Knowing which county you need and how to request records saves time and avoids delays. This page gives clear, up-to-date steps to get certified copies, search online, or verify case details. All information comes directly from court clerks and government offices as of 2024.
What Are Forsyth County Divorce Records?
Divorce records prove that a marriage has legally ended. In both North Carolina and Georgia, these files include the docket or case number, names of both spouses, filing date, final decree date, and court orders about property, alimony, child support, or custody. Some records also list settlement agreements or mediation outcomes. Only certified copies carry legal weight for remarriage, name changes, or financial matters. Uncertified prints from online portals are for reference only.
Forsyth County, North Carolina: Where Records Are Held
In North Carolina, the Forsyth County Clerk of Superior Court manages all divorce cases. The office is at 840 West Fourth Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101. This location handles filings, docket entries, and certified copy requests. Records go back decades, but older files may require extra search time. The clerk’s team updates the public docket nightly, so recent cases appear within 24 hours.
Required Information to Request a Copy
To get a certified divorce decree, you must provide:
- Full legal names of both spouses at the time of divorce
- Approximate year the divorce was filed
- Docket number (if known)
- Your government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID)
- $10 per page fee (cash, check, or money order)
How to Submit a Request in North Carolina
Visit the clerk’s office Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome, but calling 336-748-3635 ahead confirms record availability. You can also mail a written request with a copy of your ID, payment, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Processing takes 3–5 business days for mailed requests. Certified copies include an official seal and clerk signature.
Forsyth County, Georgia: Court and Clerk Details
Georgia’s Forsyth County stores divorce records at the Superior Court Civil Division. The address is 101 East Courthouse Square, Cumming, GA 30040. This office manages case filings, final decrees, and related orders. Staff confirm record status by phone at 770-781-2101 during business hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Georgia Request Requirements
Georgia requires more documentation than North Carolina. You must submit:
- A written request with notarized signature
- Copy of your driver’s license or state ID
- Case number or full names of both parties
- $8 per page processing fee
- Self-addressed stamped envelope for mail returns
Processing takes 7–10 business days. Expedited service costs an extra $5 per document. The clerk’s office does not accept walk-in payments without an appointment.
Online Search Options for Both States
Both counties offer free online tools to find case numbers and view basic details. North Carolina uses the Register of Deeds portal with Business Information Services (BIS). Georgia provides a public case search through forsythclerk.com. Neither system requires registration, but download limits apply.
North Carolina Online Portal
The Forsyth County Register of Deeds hosts an online record search at co.forsyth.nc.us/ROD/online_lookup.aspx. Users can query by party name, document type, or recording date. Results show PDFs of original filings with verification barcodes. Each download costs $5 via credit card. Technical support is available at (866) 604-3680 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST.
Georgia Case Search System
Visit forsythclerk.com/HowDoI/CaseSearch.aspx to search Georgia divorce cases. Enter a party name, docket number, or case type (e.g., “Divorce”). The system updates nightly, so yesterday’s filings appear today. Users can download up to 25 documents per IP address daily. No login is needed, but terms of service must be accepted.
Marriage and Divorce Records in Municipal Offices
Some towns in Forsyth County, NC, handle marriage licenses and hold historic divorce files. Clemmons, Kernersville, and Lewisville Town Halls offer license services and limited record access. However, only the main Clerk of Superior Court provides certified divorce decrees. Municipal offices charge $15 for certificates and require two forms of ID plus a notarized affidavit.
In Georgia, the Forsyth County Clerk’s Office at 110 East Main Street and the separate Marriage License Office at 112 West Maple Street serve different needs. The Clerk’s Office maintains divorce records, while the Marriage License Office issues same-day licenses for $50 with proof of residency and photo ID.
Fees, Processing Times, and Payment Methods
| Location | Fee per Page | Processing Time | Payment Methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forsyth County, NC | $10 | Same day (in person); 3–5 days (mail) | Cash, check, money order |
| Forsyth County, GA | $8 | 7–10 business days | Check, money order (no cash by mail) |
Expedited service in Georgia costs $5 extra. North Carolina does not offer rush processing. Always include a self-addressed stamped envelope for mailed returns.
Common Reasons People Request Divorce Records
Individuals need certified divorce decrees for many legal and personal tasks. Common uses include:
- Applying for a marriage license in a new state
- Changing a last name after divorce
- Proving marital status for immigration or visa applications
- Resolving property disputes or refinancing homes
- Updating Social Security or bank account records
Employers, landlords, or government agencies often require certified copies with official seals. Printouts from online searches are not accepted.
Privacy and Public Access Rules
Divorce records are public in both North Carolina and Georgia. However, sensitive details like Social Security numbers or children’s names may be redacted. Sealed cases or those involving domestic violence might have restricted access. Requestors must still provide ID, but personal data is protected under state law.
Tips to Avoid Delays
Follow these steps to get your record quickly:
- Call the clerk’s office before visiting to confirm the record exists.
- Bring two forms of ID if possible.
- Know the exact spelling of both spouses’ names.
- Have the docket number ready—it speeds up the search.
- Pay with exact change or a check to avoid payment issues.
Contact Information and Office Hours
Forsyth County, North Carolina
Clerk of Superior Court
840 West Fourth Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Phone: 336-748-3635
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Website: co.forsyth.nc.us/ROD/
Forsyth County, Georgia
Superior Court Civil Division
101 East Courthouse Square, Cumming, GA 30040
Phone: 770-781-2101
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Website: forsythclerk.com
Related Public Record Services
Other counties and states offer similar services. Useful links include St Charles County Court Records, free people search tools, white page directories, and Ohio public record guides. These resources help when searching across jurisdictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have similar questions about Forsyth County divorce records. Below are clear, direct answers based on current court policies and state laws.
Can I get a divorce record if I don’t know the docket number?
Yes. You can request a record using the full legal names of both spouses and the approximate year of filing. The clerk will search their database. However, having the docket number makes the process faster. If you’re unsure, call the office first to confirm the record exists before submitting payment.
Are online divorce records legally valid?
No. PDFs downloaded from online portals are for reference only. Only certified copies with an official seal and clerk signature are legally valid. Use certified copies for remarriage, name changes, or legal disputes. Uncertified prints may be rejected by banks, courts, or government agencies.
How long does it take to receive a mailed request?
In North Carolina, mailed requests take 3–5 business days after the clerk receives them. In Georgia, processing takes 7–10 business days. Always include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Delays can happen if IDs are unclear or fees are incorrect. Call the office if you don’t receive your copy within two weeks.
Can someone else request my divorce record?
Yes, but they must provide a notarized letter authorizing the request, a copy of their ID, and your full name. In Georgia, the request form itself must be notarized. Third-party requests take longer due to verification steps. Some offices limit who can access records based on relationship or legal need.
What if the divorce happened decades ago?
Older records are stored offsite and may take extra time to retrieve. North Carolina keeps records indefinitely, but Georgia may transfer very old files to state archives. Call ahead to check availability. Additional search fees might apply for records over 20 years old.
Do I need a divorce record to remarry?
Yes. Most states require proof that your previous marriage ended legally. A certified divorce decree is the standard document. Some counties accept a death certificate if a spouse passed away. Always check with your local marriage license office before applying.
Are child custody details included in divorce records?
Sometimes. Final decrees may list custody arrangements, visitation schedules, or child support amounts. However, detailed parenting plans might be in separate files. Request the full case file if you need complete custody information. Be aware that children’s names may be redacted for privacy.