Marriage and divorce records are official documents that record two of life’s most significant legal events—the beginning and end of a marriage. In Vanderburgh County, Indiana, marriage records confirm the legal union of two people, while divorce records document the dissolution of that union through the court system. These records are often requested for personal reasons, such as proving a marital relationship, applying for government benefits, resolving legal matters, or exploring family history. For researchers and genealogists, access to these records provides valuable insights into family connections and community history, making them a trusted resource beyond their legal use.
This website is an independent informational guide created to help the public understand how to find and access Vanderburgh County marriage records and divorce records in Indiana. We are not affiliated with the Vanderburgh County Court or any government office. Instead, our goal is to make the process clearer by explaining where these records are maintained, how to make a request, and what may be required to request certified copies. While we strive to provide accurate and current details, all users should verify information directly with the official county or state offices before taking action. This approach ensures that residents, researchers, and anyone with a personal need for records can navigate the system with confidence and efficiency.
Overview of Marriage & Divorce Records
Marriage and divorce records are official documents maintained by courts and clerks, such as the Vanderburgh County Court, that provide verified details of a couple’s marital history. These records are part of public documentation, meaning they can generally be requested for lawful personal reasons, but they are not intended for employment screening, tenant checks, or other restricted purposes.
Marriage Records:
A marriage record usually consists of two key parts:
- Marriage License: Issued before the wedding, showing legal approval for the marriage to take place.
- Marriage Certificate: Completed after the ceremony, serving as proof of the marriage. For example, a marriage certificate in Indiana may be needed when applying for spousal benefits, changing a last name, or tracing family lineage.
Divorce Records:
Divorce documentation often includes several filings, but the most important is the decree:
- Divorce Decree: Granted by the court after the divorce is finalized. It sets out the terms of separation, including custody arrangements, financial obligations, and division of property. A divorce decree in Vanderburgh County is the legal confirmation that a marriage has officially ended.
Why These Records Are Important
- Legal Needs: Proof of marriage or divorce may be required when updating identification, settling estates, or handling custody matters.
- Family Research: These records provide valuable insight for genealogy projects or family history verification.
- Community & Historical Value: Collectively, marriage and divorce records help document cultural and demographic trends across Indiana.
In summary, marriage and divorce records preserved by the Vanderburgh County Court play a key role in confirming life events, supporting family-related processes, and preserving historical data.
Historical Context of Marriage Records in Vanderburgh County
Marriage records are among the most valuable resources for understanding family history and local heritage in Vanderburgh County Court archives. These records not only document legal unions but also serve as essential references for genealogists, historians, and community members seeking to trace ancestry or confirm vital details. However, the availability and completeness of historical marriage records vary due to changes in recordkeeping practices over time.
Early Marriage Certifications (1818–1835)
The earliest references to marriages in Vanderburgh County appear in what are often called “loose marriage certifications.” These documents, recorded between 1818 and 1835, were often handwritten notes or ministers’ returns filed with local clerks. Unlike today’s standardized marriage licenses, these early certifications lacked uniform formatting and were sometimes inconsistently preserved. As a result, researchers studying historical marriage records in Vanderburgh County may encounter fragmented information during this period.
Gaps Before 1882
Official, systematic marriage records for Vanderburgh County do not exist before 1882. This gap occurred for several reasons:
- Limited preservation methods: Paper records from the early 19th century were vulnerable to damage from fire, flooding, or poor storage.
- Evolving legal requirements: Standardized statewide recordkeeping laws did not exist in Indiana until later in the century, leaving many early records incomplete.
- Clerical inconsistencies: Local courts and clerks may not have retained all submitted marriage certifications, further contributing to missing records.
Because of these gaps, family historians must often supplement local searches with church archives, newspaper announcements, or other regional Indiana archives.
Value for Genealogical Research
Despite these challenges, existing marriage records from Vanderburgh County remain an important resource. They provide insight into family lineages, community migration patterns, and the cultural history of southern Indiana. Genealogists frequently turn to these records as a foundation for building family trees, while local historians use them to better understand marriage customs and settlement growth in the region.
How to Request Marriage & Divorce Records
Residents often need certified copies of marriage or divorce records for legal, financial, or personal reasons. These records are maintained through the Vanderburgh County Court and can be requested in different ways depending on your preference. Below are the common methods available, along with important details about each process.
Online Request via Official Records Online
Requesting marriage or divorce records online is the most convenient option. The Vanderburgh County Court offers access through its official records portal.
Steps to Request Online:
- Visit the official records portal for Vanderburgh County Court.
- Select “Marriage Records” or “Divorce Records” from the search menu.
- Enter required details such as:
- Full names of the spouses
- Approximate marriage or divorce date
- Case number (if available)
- Submit the request and follow on-screen payment instructions.
Required Details:
- Names of both parties
- Date of marriage/divorce
- Case number (if applicable)
Processing Timeline:
- Online requests are typically processed within 3–5 business days.
- Certified copies may take longer if mailed.
Request In-Person at the Clerk’s Office
For those who prefer direct assistance, you can request records at the Vanderburgh County Court Clerk’s Office.
Clerk’s Office Information:
- Address: [Insert official Vanderburgh County Clerk’s Office address]
- Phone: [Insert phone number]
- Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)
What You Need to Bring:
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- Payment for fees (cash, card, or money order depending on office policy)
- Any case details (names, dates, case number if known)
Notes:
- Walk-in requests may be fulfilled the same day, depending on record availability.
- Certified copies usually carry a small fee.
Request by Mail
If you cannot appear in person, you may request copies of marriage or divorce records by mail through the Vanderburgh County Court Clerk’s Office.
Mailing Process:
- Write a request letter including:
- Full names of both parties
- Date of marriage/divorce
- Case number (if available)
- Return mailing address and phone number
- Include a photocopy of your government-issued photo ID.
- Enclose the required fee in check or money order payable to the Vanderburgh County Clerk of Court.
- Mail to:
[Insert official mailing address of Vanderburgh County Court Clerk’s Office]
Downloadable Form:
- Some counties provide a request form on their official website. Check the Vanderburgh County Court website for availability.
Processing Times:
- Mail requests typically take 7–14 business days to process, depending on mail delivery and request volume.
Fees and Payment Options
When requesting records through the Vanderburgh County Court, it is important to understand the different fees and payment methods available. Costs vary depending on whether you need a regular copy for personal reference or a certified copy for official use, and there are several ways to submit payment depending on your preferred method.
Cost of Regular Copies vs. Certified Copies
The marriage record fees and other record fees in Vanderburgh County depend on the type of copy requested:
- Regular Copies (Non-Certified): These are standard photocopies of court or vital records. They are typically used for personal reference, research, or general information purposes. Non-certified copies are less expensive because they do not carry legal certification.
- Certified Copies: A certified copy from Vanderburgh County Court includes an official seal or stamp verifying its authenticity. Certified copies are often required for legal, governmental, or administrative purposes such as marriage verification, name changes, or other proceedings. These usually carry a higher fee than non-certified copies due to the additional verification process.
Payment Methods Accepted
The Vanderburgh County Court Clerk’s Office accepts multiple payment options to make the process convenient for residents:
- Cash (in person only)
- Check (payable to the appropriate Clerk’s Office)
- Money Order (commonly accepted for mailed requests)
- Online Payments (where available, through the official court or county portal)
Before submitting payment, always confirm current accepted methods, as policies may change depending on the type of record requested.
Processing Times & Delivery Options
The time it takes to receive your copies from the Vanderburgh County Court may vary:
- Standard Processing: Most requests are handled within a few business days, though mailed requests may take longer depending on postal delivery.
- Expedited Processing (if available): Some records can be requested on a faster timeline, though this may include an additional fee.
- Delivery Options: Copies can usually be picked up in person at the Clerk’s Office or mailed to the requester. Online orders, if available, may also provide digital access or mail delivery depending on county systems.
By understanding the marriage record fees and certified copy costs, along with the accepted payment methods, residents can ensure they are prepared before requesting the Vanderburgh County Court.
Types of Records Available
Residents, researchers, and families often turn to the Vanderburgh County Court for access to official public records. These documents can provide valuable insights into family history, legal matters, and proof of vital events. Below are the main types of records available, along with guidance on how they are typically used.
Marriage Licenses & Certificates
A marriage license and a marriage certificate are two different but related documents:
- Marriage License: This is the legal authorization issued by the Vanderburgh County Court before a marriage takes place. It gives the couple permission to marry.
- Marriage Certificate: After the ceremony, the officiant submits the completed license, and a marriage certificate is then issued as official proof that the marriage is legally recognized.
Who can request them:
In Indiana, including Vanderburgh County, certified copies of marriage certificates are typically available to the individuals named on the record, their immediate family members, or authorized representatives. Researchers and genealogists may request informational copies of older marriage records through the court or county clerk’s office.
Divorce Decrees
A divorce decree is the final court order that legally ends a marriage. It is issued by the Vanderburgh County Court once the divorce proceedings are complete.
What details are included:
- Names of both spouses
- Case number and date of final judgment
- Custody or child support arrangements (if applicable)
- Division of property and debts
- Any ongoing obligations set by the court
If you need a copy of your decree, you can request it from the clerk’s office. For those outside the area, you may need to contact the Indiana state archives or request an Indiana divorce decree copy through official state channels. These records are important for proving marital status, updating identification documents, or handling financial and property matters after divorce.
Historical Records & Archives
For individuals conducting genealogy research or exploring local history, older marriage and divorce records may be housed outside the main courthouse. Common sources include:
- Vanderburgh County Public Library: Many libraries maintain archives of historical newspapers and marriage announcements.
- Indiana State Archives: Offers older marriage and divorce records, often dating back more than a century.
- University or Historical Societies: Local institutions sometimes preserve records, church documents, or community archives.
These resources are especially helpful for tracing family history, locating early settlers’ records, or confirming ancestral marriages. While certified copies are generally issued by the Vanderburgh County Court or clerk’s office, archived documents provide an additional layer of historical insight.
Legal Access & Privacy Rules
When it comes to Vanderburgh County Court records, Indiana law balances public access with privacy protections. Many court documents are available to the public, while certain sensitive records remain restricted. Knowing these rules ensures you can request the right information without confusion.
Indiana Public Records Law (APRA)
Indiana’s Access to Public Records Act (APRA) is the foundation for accessing government documents, including those maintained by the Vanderburgh County Court. Under this law:
- Most marriage licenses, divorce decrees, and other court filings are considered public.
- Public access helps maintain accountability and transparency within the court system.
- Records can generally be reviewed or copied unless they fall under a statutory exemption.
This means that Indiana public marriage records can often be obtained through the proper court channels, including requests filed with the clerk’s office.
Exceptions – Sealed or Confidential Records
Not all documents are available for public inspection. Some categories remain closed by law, including:
- Juvenile records: Typically sealed to protect the privacy of minors.
- Sealed divorces involving domestic violence: Portions or entire files may be restricted to protect the parties involved.
- Adoptions, expunged cases, and certain mental health records: These records are confidential and cannot be accessed by the general public.
When submitting a request through the Vanderburgh County Court, it is important to know whether the record type you need is publicly available.
Who Can Access These Records?
Access varies depending on the record type:
- General Public: Many records, including marriage and divorce filings, are open and can be requested by anyone.
- Restricted Access: Records that are sealed or confidential are only accessible to the parties named in the case, their attorneys, or by court authorization.
For example, if you are asking who can access divorce records in Indiana, most divorce records are public, but sealed files are limited to those directly involved and their legal representatives.
Step-by-Step Example: Requesting a Certified Record
Requesting a certified record—such as a marriage license or divorce decree—can feel complicated at first. To help, here’s a simple walkthrough that demonstrates how someone might request a certified record from the Vanderburgh County Court. Please note that this is a general educational example only, and users should always confirm details with the official county clerk or court office before submitting their request.
1: Identify the Type of Record You Need
Start by deciding what record you need. For example:
- Certified Copy of a Marriage License in Indiana: often required for legal name changes, benefits, or official identification updates.
- Divorce Record Search in Vanderburgh County: commonly requested for legal proceedings, financial matters, or personal record-keeping.
2: Locate the Correct Office
Different records may be handled by different offices within Vanderburgh County Court:
- Marriage licenses are usually maintained by the County Clerk’s Office.
- Divorce decrees are typically filed in the Circuit or Superior Court, depending on the case.
3: Complete the Request Form
Most offices provide a paper or online form. A sample request form might ask for:
- Full names of both parties
- Date of the marriage or divorce
- Case number (if known)
- Contact information
- Your signature
4: Provide Identification and Payment
When requesting a certified record, be prepared to:
- Show a valid government-issued ID.
- Pay a small certification fee, which varies by record type. Fees are typically accepted by check, money order, or credit card.
5: Submit the Request
- In Person: Visit the clerk’s office at the courthouse during business hours.
- By Mail: Send your completed form, payment, and a self-addressed stamped envelope.
- Online (if available): Some counties offer secure online portals for certified record requests.
6: Wait for Processing
Processing times can vary. Some requests may be filled the same day in person, while mailed or online requests may take several business days to a few weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you’re searching for information through the Vanderburgh County Court, you may have common questions about how to access records, what information is available, and what procedures to follow. Below are detailed answers to frequently asked questions to help guide residents, researchers, and families through the process of obtaining court and vital records.
How do I find marriage records before 1882 in Vanderburgh County?
Marriage records in Vanderburgh County prior to 1882 may not be available through the Vanderburgh County Court’s regular online case search tools. Instead, these older records are often preserved in local archives, historical societies, or with the County Clerk’s office. Many counties in Indiana transferred older documents to state archives or libraries for safekeeping. If you are searching for genealogy purposes, you may need to visit the Vanderburgh County Clerk’s office in person or submit a written request. Some Indiana historical websites and state library databases also provide indexed marriage information. Always verify details through official county or state resources to ensure accuracy.
Are divorce records public in Indiana?
Yes, divorce records are considered public records in Indiana, including those filed in Vanderburgh County Court. This means most finalized divorce cases can be accessed by the public unless the court has ordered certain details sealed, such as sensitive financial or child custody information. These records are typically held by the Vanderburgh County Clerk’s office, and in some cases, basic case details may also be found online through the Indiana court system’s case search portal. Keep in mind, while divorce records are public, certified copies or documents containing private information may require a formal request and proof of identity.
How much does a certified copy cost?
The cost of obtaining a certified copy of a record from Vanderburgh County Court depends on the type of document requested. Generally, Indiana counties charge between $1 to $2 per page, with an additional certification fee of around $1 to $5 per document. For marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or other vital records, fees may vary slightly. Payment is usually accepted in the form of cash, money order, or credit card at the Clerk’s office. If requesting by mail, you may need to include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Always check directly with the Vanderburgh County Clerk’s office for the most current fee schedule.
Can I request records if I don’t know the case number?
Yes, you can request records from Vanderburgh County Court even if you do not know the case number. When submitting your request, you will need to provide as much identifying information as possible, such as the full names of the parties involved, the approximate year of filing, and the type of case (e.g., marriage, divorce, civil, or criminal). Court staff can then search their database to locate the record. For older cases, additional time may be required, especially if the records are archived. Providing accurate details helps speed up the process and ensures you receive the correct documents.
How long does it take to receive a record?
The time it takes to receive records from Vanderburgh County Court depends on the type of record and the method of request. In-person requests at the Clerk’s office are usually processed the same day. Mailed requests may take 1–2 weeks, depending on mail service and staff workload. Online requests, if available, are often processed faster but may still require verification before release. Older records that are stored in archives may take additional time to retrieve. To avoid delays, be sure to include complete information with your request and verify current processing times with the Clerk’s office.