A divorce decree is a court document signed by a magistrate/judge and filed that signifies the legal end of your marriage. It is issued by Ohio courts when your divorce is officially finalized.
But why is a divorce decree necessary in Ohio? What’s included in a divorce decree? And how do you get a copy of yours? Let’s dive into the details.
What’s included in a divorce decree?
A divorce decree contains important details of your divorce agreement including terms surrounding:
- Child custody and visitation (including referencing a shared parenting plan)
- Child support
- Spousal Support
- Division of marital property or debt
- Attorney’s Fees
Since a divorce decree is issued by court order, it is highly enforceable, and both ex-spouses must adhere to its terms.
If you have chosen to revert to a former name after your divorce is finalized, a decree will include the court’s order regarding your name change and serves as proof that you have legally changed your name.
While there are no set standards for a decree, most commonly, they include the following information pertaining to your divorce:
- Each party’s name, address, birth dates and other identification information
- Identification information of any children impacted by the divorce
- Court’s address and telephone number
- Case number and judge’s name
- Attorney information for both parties
- A declaration that the divorce is finalized
- Any relevant name change information
For a divorce decree to be enforceable by law, both spouses, attorneys, and the judge must sign it. Once it’s stamped with an official court seal, the document becomes legal and binding.
How do I get a copy of my divorce decree?
Once your divorce is finalized, you may want a certified copy of your divorce decree to keep for your records. In most instances, you will be provided the documentation at the end of your divorce. If you didn’t receive it or need additional copies, you can obtain them from the court clerk’s office in the Ohio county where your divorce occurred. You will likely have to pay a fee to get a certified copy of your divorce decree.
Is a divorce decree the same as a divorce certificate?
The details of your divorce may be something you want to keep private. A divorce certificate is a separate document that can be used to show proof of your divorce. Since it contains minimal information, it protects your privacy in instances where it serves as acceptable proof that you are legally divorced.
Divorce certificates include the following information:
- Names of ex-spouses
- Name of the presiding judge
- Name and location of the court
- Date the divorce was finalized
By working with a qualified divorce attorney in Ohio, you can ensure you get copies of all necessary paperwork at the time of your divorce, so you can move forward with your life with proof of your divorce.
Consult With a Columbus, Ohio, Divorce Attorney
If you are going through a divorce in Ohio, you need a qualified divorce lawyer in your corner. At the Law Offices of Kenneth R. Kline LLC, we can provide the guidance you need to expedite the divorce process and walk away with everything you need to start the next chapter of your life. Contact our office for a risk-free consultation from a high-caliber, certified divorce attorney who understands Ohio laws.