Clark County Dissolution Of Marriage Records

Clark County dissolution of marriage records are kept at the Courthouse in Winchester. Circuit Clerk Tony Kirk manages all divorce filings. His office maintains complete case files. Winchester is the county seat. Records are available for public access.

Clark County Circuit Court Clerk for Dissolution Of Marriage

Circuit Clerk Tony Kirk serves Clark County. His office is at the Clark County Courthouse in Winchester. This is the only location for dissolution of marriage records in Clark County. The staff handles all divorce filings and maintains case files.

Many people confuse the County Clerk with the Circuit Court Clerk. These offices serve different functions. The County Clerk handles marriage licenses. The Circuit Court Clerk handles court records including dissolutions. For divorce records, you must visit the Circuit Court Clerk.

The Clark County Courthouse is a historic building in downtown Winchester. Visitors can find the Circuit Clerk office on the main floor. Staff can assist with record searches. They can provide copies of decrees and other documents.

Note: The courthouse is near downtown Winchester. Parking is available on surrounding streets.

How to Get Clark County Dissolution Of Marriage Records

You can request Clark County dissolution records in several ways. The Circuit Clerk accepts in-person visits at the Courthouse. You can also submit written requests by mail. All fees must be paid in advance for mail orders.

Visit the Clark County Courthouse in Winchester. Go to the Circuit Court Clerk office. The staff can search for your case and provide copies during your visit. Bring identification and any case information you have. This helps speed up the search process.

For mail requests, send a letter to the address above. Include the names of both parties and the year of the dissolution. Provide your contact information. Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope. Include payment for estimated copy fees. Allow 7 to 10 business days for processing.

Clark County Dissolution Of Marriage Copy Fees

The Clark County Circuit Court Clerk charges standard fees for record copies. Non-commercial copies cost $0.50 per page. Certified copies cost more. These fees follow Kentucky Open Records Act standards.

All fees must be paid in advance for mail requests. The office accepts checks and money orders. Call 859-737-7264 to confirm acceptable payment methods. Ask about current fees before sending your request.

The Kentucky Open Records Act requires a response within 5 working days. The Circuit Clerk follows this timeline for all record requests.

Kentucky State Certificates for Clark County Dissolutions

The Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics holds dissolution certificates from June 1958 forward. These certificates cost $6 each. They confirm that a divorce took place. They show the parties' names and the divorce date. They do not include full court orders.

Send mail requests to 275 East Main Street, Frankfort, KY 40621. Include both spouses' names, the divorce date, and Clark County. You can also order online through VitalChek for an additional fee.

For divorces before 1958, contact the Clark County Circuit Clerk. The state office does not hold older records.

Kentucky Laws for Dissolution Of Marriage in Clark County

Dissolution cases in Clark County follow KRS Chapter 403. These statutes set the rules for filing and completing divorce cases.

KRS 403.140 requires 180 days of Kentucky residency. One spouse must meet this before filing. File in Clark County if you or your spouse lives there.

KRS 403.170 makes Kentucky a no-fault state. The only ground for dissolution is an "irretrievably broken" marriage. Neither spouse must prove fault.

KRS 403.170(2) sets a 60-day waiting period. Spouses must live apart for 60 days after service before the court can finalize the case.

Access to Clark County Dissolution Of Marriage Records

Clark County dissolution records are public under Kentucky law. The Open Records Act grants access to court documents. Anyone can request copies. You do not need to be a party to the case.

Some information may be redacted. This includes Social Security numbers and financial account details. The clerk removes this information before providing copies. A court order can seal records in special cases.

Cities in Clark County

Clark County includes several communities. All dissolution cases are filed at the Winchester courthouse.

Nearby Counties

These counties neighbor Clark County. File your dissolution case in the county where you or your spouse resides.