How to obtain a copy of divorce papers

If you need legal proof of a divorce in any court, from 1858 to the present day, contact the Principle Registry of the Family Division, Decree Absolute Section, First Avenue House, 42-49 High Holborn, London WC1V 6NP (+44 (0) 20 947 7017 / 7016 / 6051).

For a fee, they will access a union index to the registered court copies of decrees absolute for you, and either provide a certified copy of the information themselves (if the divorce was granted by the Supreme Court) or arrange for a certified copy to be sent to you from the relevant county court.

If the divorce took place within the last 5 years, you can also contact the county court where it took place for a cheaper service. If you want information on the cause of the divorce, ask for the decree nisi as well.