Davidson County Divorce Records
What Are Davidson County Divorce Records?
Davidson County divorce records are official legal documents that chronicle the dissolution of marriages within Davidson County, Tennessee. These records are maintained by the Davidson County Chancery Court Clerk and Master's Office as part of their statutory responsibility under Tennessee Code Annotated § 36-4-101 et seq. Divorce records constitute a subset of vital records that document significant life events of county residents.
The records typically include:
- Original divorce petitions filed by either party
- Court orders and judgments related to the divorce proceedings
- Final divorce decrees that legally terminate the marriage
- Property settlement agreements between the divorcing parties
- Child custody and support arrangements, where applicable
- Name change authorizations resulting from the divorce
These documents serve multiple purposes for governmental, legal, and personal uses. They provide official verification of marital status changes, which may be required for subsequent marriages, name changes on official identification, and various legal proceedings. The Davidson County Chancery Court Clerk maintains these records in both physical and electronic formats, with records dating back to May 1846.
Davidson County Chancery Court Clerk and Master's Office
1 Public Square, Suite 308
Nashville, TN 37201
Phone: (615) 862-5710
Davidson County Chancery Court
Are Davidson County Divorce Records Public?
Davidson County divorce records are generally considered public records pursuant to the Tennessee Public Records Act (T.C.A. § 10-7-503). This legislation establishes the presumption that government records, including court records, shall be open for personal inspection by any citizen of Tennessee during regular business hours.
The public status of these records means:
- Any member of the public may request access to divorce records filed in Davidson County
- No statement of purpose is required when requesting access to these records
- Records may be viewed in person at the Chancery Court Clerk's office during regular business hours
- Copies may be obtained for a statutory fee as established by T.C.A. § 8-21-401
However, certain exceptions to public access exist. Under Tennessee law, specific information within divorce records may be redacted or sealed by court order, including:
- Social Security numbers, pursuant to T.C.A. § 10-7-504(a)(29)
- Financial account numbers and other personal identifying information
- Information related to victims of domestic violence who participate in the state's address confidentiality program
- Records involving minors, which may have additional privacy protections
The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County maintains policies regarding public records requests that comply with state law while protecting sensitive information.
How To Find a Divorce Record In Davidson County in 2025
Finding divorce records in Davidson County requires following specific procedures established by the court system. Members of the public seeking divorce records may utilize the following methods:
In-person requests remain the most direct approach for obtaining comprehensive divorce records. Requestors should:
- Visit the Davidson County Chancery Court Clerk and Master's Office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM)
- Complete a records request form available at the clerk's counter
- Provide specific information including:
- Full names of both parties to the divorce
- Approximate date of divorce filing or finalization
- Case number, if known
- Pay applicable search and copy fees as prescribed by T.C.A. § 8-21-401
For records from 2000 to present, the Circuit Court Clerk's Office also maintains divorce records and provides search services. Their electronic system allows for more efficient searches of recent records.
Davidson County Circuit Court Clerk's Office
1 Public Square, Suite 302
Nashville, TN 37201
Phone: (615) 862-5181
Circuit Court Clerk
Mail requests are also accepted for those unable to visit in person. Requestors should send a written request including:
- A completed records request form (available on the county website)
- A self-addressed stamped envelope
- Payment for applicable fees by check or money order
- Clear identification of the records being requested
Processing times for mail requests typically range from 5-10 business days depending on current volume and staff availability.
How To Look Up Divorce Records in Davidson County Online?
Davidson County offers several digital resources for accessing divorce records online, providing convenient alternatives to in-person visits. The primary online access points include:
The Davidson County Chancery Court Public Records Search portal allows users to search for divorce cases filed since 1999. This system provides:
- Case number and filing date information
- Names of parties and attorneys
- Docket entries showing case progression
- Limited document viewing capabilities
To conduct an online search, users must:
- Navigate to the official Chancery Court website
- Select the "Public Records Search" option
- Enter search criteria such as party names or case numbers
- Review the results list for relevant cases
For more comprehensive access, the Tennessee Court Information System (TnCIS) provides subscription-based services for legal professionals and frequent users. This system offers enhanced features including:
- Document image viewing for selected courts
- Case tracking and notification options
- Batch search capabilities
- Access to cases across multiple Tennessee counties
The Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts also maintains a Public Case History database that may include appellate cases related to divorces.
Users should note that online access has certain limitations:
- Not all documents within a case file may be available electronically
- Older records (pre-1999) generally require in-person research
- Certain sensitive documents may be accessible only at the courthouse
- Statutory fees may apply for document downloads or printing
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Davidson County?
Davidson County residents seeking no-cost access to divorce records have several options available, though services may be limited compared to fee-based alternatives. Free access methods include:
On-site inspection at the Davidson County Chancery Court Clerk's Office is available without charge. Visitors may:
- Review public divorce records during regular business hours
- Take notes from the records
- Use personal devices to photograph non-restricted documents (subject to court policies)
No fees are assessed for simply viewing records, though charges apply for official copies or certified documents.
The Davidson County General Sessions Court provides limited free access to case information through their public terminals located at:
Davidson County Justice A.A. Birch Building
408 2nd Avenue North
Nashville, TN 37201
Phone: (615) 862-8317
General Sessions Court
Public libraries in Davidson County offer free internet access where patrons can utilize the court's basic online search functions at no cost. The Main Library location provides:
- Computer terminals with internet access
- Reference librarians who can assist with navigating public records websites
- Access to legal research databases that may contain divorce case information
Legal aid organizations serving Davidson County may assist qualifying low-income individuals with obtaining necessary divorce records at no cost. These services typically require income verification and are limited to specific legal needs.
What's Included in a Divorce Records In Davidson County
Davidson County divorce records contain comprehensive documentation of the legal process and outcomes of marriage dissolution. The contents typically include several categories of information:
The case initiation documents form the foundation of the record:
- Complaint for Divorce (or Petition for Dissolution of Marriage)
- Summons and proof of service to the responding party
- Marital Dissolution Agreement (if submitted)
- Parenting Plan (for cases involving minor children)
- Financial declarations and asset disclosures
Court proceedings documentation chronicles the case progression:
- Motions filed by either party
- Court orders on temporary matters (support, custody, etc.)
- Transcripts of hearings (if requested and paid for)
- Mediation agreements or outcomes
- Continuance requests and scheduling notices
The final judgment components include:
- Final Decree of Divorce signed by the presiding judge
- Property division orders detailing distribution of assets and debts
- Child support worksheets and payment orders
- Custody and visitation determinations
- Name change authorizations (if applicable)
Post-judgment modifications may also appear in the record:
- Petitions to modify support or custody arrangements
- Contempt filings for non-compliance with court orders
- Agreed orders reflecting changes to the original decree
- Appeals documentation if the case was reviewed by higher courts
The Davidson County Register of Deeds may maintain records of property transfers resulting from divorce settlements.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In Davidson County?
Obtaining official proof of divorce in Davidson County requires securing a certified copy of the Final Decree of Divorce. This document serves as legal verification of marital status change and is accepted by government agencies, courts, and private entities. To obtain this documentation:
In-person requests can be processed immediately at the Davidson County Chancery Court Clerk's Office. Requestors should:
- Visit the clerk's office during regular business hours
- Complete a request form for certified copies
- Provide the case number or names of both parties and approximate divorce date
- Present valid photo identification
- Pay the certification fee of $5.00 per document plus $1.00 per page copying fee
Mail requests are processed within 7-10 business days and require:
- A written request specifying the parties' names and case information
- A copy of the requestor's photo identification
- A self-addressed stamped envelope
- Payment by check or money order for applicable fees
The Criminal Court Clerk of Metropolitan Nashville and Davidson County can verify that no related criminal matters are pending that might affect the divorce status.
Criminal Court Clerk's Office
408 2nd Avenue North, Suite 2120
Nashville, TN 37201
Phone: (615) 862-5601
Criminal Court Clerk
For expedited service, the clerk's office offers premium processing for an additional fee, typically providing certified copies within 24-48 hours of request receipt.
Certified copies bear the official seal of the court and signature of the clerk, making them acceptable for:
- Legal name changes on identification documents
- Remarriage license applications
- Immigration proceedings
- Employment verification
- Insurance and benefits administration
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Davidson County?
While divorce proceedings in Davidson County are presumptively public under Tennessee law, certain mechanisms exist to protect sensitive information and, in limited circumstances, to shield entire cases from public view. The confidentiality options include:
Sealing specific documents within a divorce file may be requested through a formal motion to the court. Pursuant to Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 34, parties must demonstrate:
- A compelling privacy interest that outweighs the public's right to access
- That no less restrictive means are available to protect the information
- Specific factual findings supporting the need for confidentiality
Information commonly protected through redaction includes:
- Social Security numbers and taxpayer identification numbers
- Birth dates of minor children
- Financial account numbers
- Personal health information protected under HIPAA
- Victim information in cases involving domestic violence
Complete file sealing is rare and granted only in exceptional circumstances, such as:
- Cases involving minors where publicity would cause demonstrable harm
- Matters involving public figures where extraordinary privacy concerns exist
- Situations where open records would compromise personal safety
The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County maintains specific procedures for handling confidential information in public records.
Parties seeking confidentiality should consult with legal counsel early in the divorce process, as retroactive sealing of already-public records is significantly more difficult to obtain. The court retains discretion in all confidentiality determinations, balancing privacy interests against the presumption of open records.
How Long Does a Divorce Take In Davidson County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in Davidson County varies significantly based on several factors, including case complexity and the level of agreement between parties. The timeline generally follows these parameters:
Uncontested divorces, where parties have reached full agreement on all issues, typically proceed most efficiently:
- Minimum waiting period: 60 days from filing if no minor children are involved (T.C.A. § 36-4-101)
- Minimum waiting period: 90 days from filing if minor children are involved
- Total processing time: Approximately 2-4 months from initial filing to final decree
Contested divorces involving disputes over property, support, or custody follow a more extended timeline:
- Initial case management conference: Usually scheduled 30-45 days after filing
- Discovery period: Typically 3-6 months depending on complexity
- Mediation: Required in most cases before trial scheduling
- Trial scheduling: May occur 6-12 months after initial filing depending on court docket
- Post-trial proceedings: Final decree typically issued within 30 days of trial conclusion
Factors that commonly extend the divorce timeline include:
- High-value or complex asset division requiring forensic accounting
- Child custody evaluations or guardian ad litem appointments
- Business valuation proceedings
- Requests for continuances by either party
- Court congestion and scheduling limitations
The Davidson County Circuit Court Clerk can provide general information about current processing times, though specific case timelines may vary.
How Long Does Davidson County Keep Divorce Records?
Davidson County maintains divorce records permanently as part of its official court archives. This retention policy exceeds the minimum requirements established by the Tennessee Public Records Commission and ensures the perpetual availability of these important legal documents. The records management system includes:
Physical records storage protocols that vary by age:
- Current records (approximately 0-5 years old): Maintained in active files at the Chancery Court Clerk's Office
- Intermediate records (approximately 5-20 years old): Stored in secure county archives with retrieval available upon request
- Historical records (older than 20 years): Preserved in climate-controlled archival facilities with specialized handling procedures
Digital records retention has evolved over time:
- Records from 1999-present: Maintained in electronic case management systems with regular backup protocols
- Records from 1980-1998: Partially digitized with ongoing conversion efforts
- Records pre-1980: Primarily available in original paper format or microfilm
The Davidson County Chancery Court Clerk has maintained divorce records dating back to May 1846, making it one of the most comprehensive court record collections in Tennessee. These historical records provide valuable genealogical and legal information spanning more than 175 years.
Access procedures for older records may require:
- Advanced notice for retrieval from archival storage
- Special handling requirements for fragile documents
- Additional search fees for records without specific case numbers
- Appointment scheduling for viewing historical materials
How To Get a Divorce In Davidson County
Initiating divorce proceedings in Davidson County requires adherence to specific legal procedures established by Tennessee law and local court rules. The process includes several key steps:
Residency requirements must be satisfied before filing:
- Either spouse must have been a Tennessee resident for at least six months prior to filing
- The divorce should be filed in the county where the defendant resides or where the parties separated
The filing process involves:
- Preparing the Complaint for Divorce (or Petition for Dissolution)
- Completing mandatory forms including:
- Civil Case Cover Sheet
- Certificate of Divorce (statistical form)
- Notice of Alternative Dispute Resolution requirements
- Parenting Plan (if minor children are involved)
- Filing documents with the Davidson County Chancery Court Clerk
- Paying the filing fee (approximately $300-400, subject to change)
- Serving the non-filing spouse according to Tennessee Rules of Civil Procedure
For uncontested divorces, additional requirements include:
- Marital Dissolution Agreement signed by both parties
- Waiting period compliance (60 days without children, 90 days with children)
- Scheduling a final hearing for decree issuance
The Davidson County General Sessions Court handles certain domestic matters that may precede or accompany divorce proceedings, such as orders of protection.
Legal representation is not required but strongly recommended, particularly for cases involving:
- Significant assets or debts
- Child custody disputes
- Spousal support considerations
- Complex property division
- Retirement accounts or business interests
How To Get Divorce Papers In Davidson County
Obtaining divorce forms and documentation in Davidson County can be accomplished through several channels, depending on individual circumstances and needs. The available options include:
The Davidson County Chancery Court Clerk's Office provides standard divorce forms for public use:
- Basic divorce packets for both contested and uncontested proceedings
- Simplified forms for divorces without minor children
- Fee waiver applications for qualifying low-income individuals
- Procedural instructions for form completion and filing
These materials can be obtained in person at:
Davidson County Chancery Court Clerk and Master's Office
1 Public Square, Suite 308
Nashville, TN 37201
Phone: (615) 862-5710
Davidson County Chancery Court
Online resources offer convenient access to standardized forms:
- The Tennessee Supreme Court provides approved divorce forms on its website
- The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County website includes links to commonly requested court documents
- Legal aid organizations offer form downloads with completion guidance
Legal assistance options for obtaining and properly completing divorce papers include:
- The Nashville Bar Association's lawyer referral service
- Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee, which provides services to qualifying low-income residents
- Law school legal clinics offering supervised student assistance
- Limited-scope representation from attorneys who handle only document preparation
Self-help resources available at the Nashville Public Library include:
- Legal reference materials specific to Tennessee divorce law
- Computer access for downloading and printing forms
- Notary services at select branches (fees may apply)
Lookup Divorce Records in Davidson County
Davidson County Chancery Court public records search
Circuit Court Clerk online records portal
Davidson County General Sessions Court case information
Metropolitan Government public records request system
Criminal Court Clerk case lookup
Davidson County Register of Deeds property records
Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts public case history