Are Divorce Records and Filings Public?

Yes. In California, divorce records are considered public records, and are therefore accessible to anyone who might be interested in obtaining them. Divorce records fall within the category of “administrative records” which includes documents related to birth, death, marriage, and divorce. Generally, administrative records are subject to public disclosure. However, it is possible to ask the court to seal the records when there are compelling reasons to do so. Certain other strategies can also be employed to keep portions of the records confidential.