Bexar County Divorce Records
What Are Bexar County Divorce Records?
Bexar County divorce records are official legal documents maintained by the Bexar County District Clerk's Office that document the dissolution of marriage within the county's jurisdiction. These records constitute the complete legal history of divorce proceedings as governed by the Texas Family Code § 6.001, which establishes grounds for dissolution of marriage in the state of Texas. Divorce records typically include petitions, responses, court orders, property settlements, child custody arrangements, and the final divorce decree.
The maintenance of these records serves multiple public and private interests. Pursuant to Texas state law, divorce records function as:
- Legal proof of marital status change
- Documentation required for remarriage
- Evidence for legal name changes following divorce
- Supporting documentation for Social Security benefit adjustments
- Verification for loan applications and financial matters
- Required documentation for immigration proceedings
- Historical records for genealogical research
The Bexar County District Clerk serves as the official custodian of all divorce records filed within the county. These records form part of the permanent judicial record and are maintained according to state retention schedules established by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission.
Are Bexar County Divorce Records Public?
Bexar County divorce records maintain a dual status regarding public accessibility. The general rule, pursuant to the Texas Public Information Act § 552.022, establishes that court records, including divorce proceedings, are presumptively open to public inspection. However, this access is subject to important limitations and exceptions.
Court divorce case files are generally available for public inspection with the following exceptions:
- Records containing sensitive personal information as defined by Texas Government Code § 552.140
- Documents containing Social Security numbers, bank account information, or medical records
- Cases involving minors where the court has ordered records sealed
- Proceedings where a protective order has been issued
- Cases sealed by judicial order for compelling privacy interests
Certified divorce certificates and verification letters have more restricted access. Under current Texas law, these documents are available only to:
- The parties named in the divorce
- Legal representatives with proper authorization
- Individuals with a demonstrable legal interest in the case
- Government agencies acting in their official capacity
The Bexar County District Clerk's Office maintains these records and processes public requests in accordance with applicable state laws governing both public access and privacy protections.
How To Find a Divorce Record In Bexar County in 2026
Members of the public seeking divorce records in Bexar County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The Bexar County District Clerk's Office maintains all divorce records and provides multiple access options:
In-Person Requests:
- Visit the Bexar County District Clerk's Office during regular business hours
- Complete the Records Request Form available at the public counter
- Provide case number, names of parties, and approximate date of divorce
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay applicable search and copy fees
By Mail:
- Download and complete the Records Request Form from the District Clerk's website
- Include a copy of valid government-issued photo identification
- Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope
- Include payment by check or money order for applicable fees
- Mail the complete package to:
Bexar County District Clerk
Paul Elizondo Tower
101 W. Nueva, Suite 217
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 335-2113
Bexar County District Clerk
Online Requests:
- Access the Bexar County Public Record Searches portal
- Select "District Clerk" from the department dropdown menu
- Enter available search criteria (names, case numbers, date ranges)
- Review search results to locate the specific divorce case
- Note that while basic case information is viewable online, complete documents may require in-person or written requests
For certified copies of divorce decrees, requestors must provide proper identification and pay the statutory fee of $1.00 per page plus a $5.00 certification fee per document. Expedited service may be available for an additional fee.
How To Look Up Divorce Records in Bexar County Online?
Bexar County provides a comprehensive online system for searching divorce records through its public access portal. The following step-by-step procedure enables members of the public to conduct preliminary divorce record searches:
- Navigate to the Bexar County Public Record Searches website
- Select "District Clerk" from the department dropdown menu
- Choose "Civil" as the case type
- Select "Divorce" from the available case categories
- Enter search parameters in at least one of the following fields:
- Case number (if known)
- Party name (last name, first name)
- Date range of filing
- Attorney name (if applicable)
- Click "Search" to generate results
- Review the list of matching cases
- Select a specific case to view basic information including:
- Case number and filing date
- Names of parties
- Attorney information
- Judge assignment
- Docket entries and hearing dates
- Case status (pending or disposed)
It is important to note that while the online system provides case information and docket entries, actual document images may not be available for viewing online due to privacy considerations. Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.263, certain documents may require in-person inspection or formal written requests.
For cases filed prior to the implementation of electronic records (generally before 2000), online search capabilities may be limited, and requestors may need to contact the District Clerk's Office directly for assistance with historical records.
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Bexar County?
Bexar County residents and interested parties may access certain divorce record information without payment of fees through several available channels:
Public Access Terminals: The Bexar County District Clerk's Office provides public access computer terminals at no charge during regular business hours at:
Bexar County District Clerk
Paul Elizondo Tower
101 W. Nueva, Suite 217
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 335-2113
Bexar County District Clerk
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (excluding county holidays)
These terminals allow users to:
- Search case indexes by name or case number
- View basic case information and docket entries
- Identify document numbers for subsequent retrieval
Online Case Information: Basic case information is available at no charge through the Bexar County Public Record Searches portal. While this service does not provide document images, it offers:
- Case numbers and filing dates
- Party names and attorney information
- Judge assignments
- Hearing schedules
- Case status updates
Law Library Resources: The Bexar County Law Library provides public access to legal research tools that may assist in locating divorce case information:
Bexar County Law Library
Bexar County Justice Center
300 Dolorosa, Suite 1.04
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 335-3971
Bexar County Law Library
It should be noted that while searching for records may be conducted without charge, fees apply for obtaining copies of documents, certified copies, or extensive research assistance. These fees are established pursuant to Texas Local Government Code § 118.011, which authorizes counties to collect reasonable fees for document reproduction.
What's Included in a Divorce Records In Bexar County
Divorce records in Bexar County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the entire legal process of marriage dissolution. These records typically contain the following components:
Initial Filings:
- Original Petition for Divorce
- Citation and Return of Service
- Respondent's Original Answer
- Counter-Petitions (if applicable)
- Temporary Restraining Orders (if requested)
Financial Documentation:
- Inventory and Appraisement of Property
- Financial Information Statements
- Wage and Income Information
- Retirement and Pension Documentation
- Business Valuation Reports (if applicable)
Child-Related Documents (when applicable):
- Parenting Plans
- Child Support Calculations
- Conservatorship (Custody) Arrangements
- Visitation Schedules
- Child Support Orders
Court Proceedings:
- Temporary Orders
- Mediation Agreements
- Deposition Transcripts
- Hearing Notices
- Court Reporter Records
- Judge's Notes and Orders
Final Documents:
- Final Decree of Divorce
- Property Division Orders
- Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs)
- Name Change Orders (if applicable)
- Certificate of Divorce
The content and extent of divorce records vary significantly based on whether the divorce was contested or uncontested, the presence of minor children, the complexity of property division, and whether the case proceeded to trial or was resolved through settlement. All documents filed become part of the official court record maintained by the Bexar County District Clerk in accordance with Texas Government Code § 51.303, which establishes the duties of district clerks regarding court records.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In Bexar County?
Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Bexar County may obtain this documentation through established procedures administered by the District Clerk's Office. The following methods are available for securing proof of divorce:
Certified Copy of Divorce Decree: The most comprehensive proof of divorce is a certified copy of the Final Decree of Divorce, which may be obtained by:
- Submitting a written request to the Bexar County District Clerk
- Providing the case number, names of parties, and approximate date of divorce
- Including a copy of valid government-issued photo identification
- Paying the required fee ($1.00 per page plus $5.00 certification fee)
- Specifying delivery method (in-person pickup or mail delivery)
Verification Letter: For situations requiring only confirmation of divorce without the full decree, a verification letter may be requested:
- Complete the Records Request Form specifying "Verification Letter" as the document type
- Provide case information and identification as noted above
- Pay the applicable fee ($5.00 per verification letter)
- Submit request in person or by mail to:
Bexar County District Clerk
Paul Elizondo Tower
101 W. Nueva, Suite 217
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 335-2113
Bexar County District Clerk
Expedited Service: For urgent needs, the District Clerk offers expedited service for an additional fee. Requestors should:
- Clearly mark the request as "EXPEDITED"
- Pay the standard fees plus the expedited service charge
- Provide contact information for notification when documents are ready
All requests for proof of divorce must be accompanied by proper identification to ensure confidentiality and compliance with Texas Family Code § 6.407, which governs the maintenance and disclosure of divorce records.
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Bexar County?
While divorce proceedings in Bexar County are generally matters of public record, Texas law provides several mechanisms through which certain aspects of divorce cases may be maintained as confidential. The following provisions exist for protecting sensitive information:
Sealing of Records: Pursuant to Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 76a, a court may order divorce records sealed upon showing:
- A specific, serious, and substantial interest that clearly outweighs the presumption of openness
- No less restrictive means would adequately protect the interest
- The sealing order is narrowly tailored to serve the interest
The process requires:
- Filing a written motion to seal records
- Posting public notice of the request
- Participating in a hearing where interested parties may contest the sealing
- Obtaining a court order specifically identifying the sealed documents
Protective Orders: In cases involving domestic violence, the court may issue protective orders that restrict access to certain information pursuant to Texas Family Code § 85.001.
Redaction of Sensitive Information: Certain information must be redacted from publicly accessible documents, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Bank account numbers
- Minor children's identifying information
- Medical records
- Financial account information
Confidential Information Form: Parties may file sensitive information on a Confidential Information Form that is not accessible to the general public but remains available to the parties and the court.
Agreement Incident to Divorce: Parties may incorporate settlement terms into an "Agreement Incident to Divorce" that is referenced in the decree but not filed as a public document, thereby keeping certain financial arrangements private.
It should be noted that complete confidentiality of divorce proceedings is rare and generally limited to exceptional circumstances. Most divorce records remain accessible to the public with the protections for sensitive information noted above.
How Long Does a Divorce Take In Bexar County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in Bexar County varies significantly based on multiple factors. Under Texas law, specifically Texas Family Code § 6.702, a divorce cannot be finalized until at least 60 days have elapsed since the date of filing the petition (commonly referred to as the "cooling-off period"). Beyond this statutory minimum, several factors influence the timeline:
Uncontested Divorces: When parties agree on all issues, including property division and child-related matters, divorces typically require:
- Minimum 60-day waiting period
- 1-2 weeks for document preparation
- 2-4 weeks for court scheduling
- Total timeframe: Approximately 3-4 months
Contested Divorces: When disagreements exist regarding property, support, or child custody, the process extends considerably:
- Discovery period: 3-6 months
- Temporary orders hearings: 1-2 months
- Mediation attempts: 1-3 months
- Trial preparation: 2-4 months
- Trial and final orders: 1-2 months
- Total timeframe: Approximately 8-18 months
Complex Property Division: Cases involving business valuations, extensive real estate, retirement accounts, or hidden assets may require:
- Expert witness involvement
- Extended discovery
- Multiple hearings
- Total timeframe: Potentially 12-24 months
Court Congestion Factors: The Bexar County District Courts currently maintain dockets that affect scheduling:
- Average time to first hearing: 4-6 weeks
- Average time to final trial setting: 6-9 months
According to statistics from the Office of Court Administration, the average disposition time for contested divorce cases in Bexar County is approximately 10.2 months from filing to final decree, while uncontested cases average 4.3 months. These timeframes represent averages and individual cases may proceed more quickly or require additional time based on specific circumstances.
How Long Does Bexar County Keep Divorce Records?
Bexar County maintains divorce records according to retention schedules established by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission under the authority of Texas Local Government Code § 203.041. These schedules mandate permanent retention for most divorce case records:
Permanent Retention:
- Final Judgments and Decrees of Divorce
- Orders affecting child custody, support, or visitation
- Property division orders
- Name change orders
- Index and docket information
Long-Term Retention (25+ years):
- Exhibits and evidence admitted in court
- Transcripts and statements of fact
- Court reporter notes
Medium-Term Retention (10-15 years):
- Discovery documents not admitted as evidence
- Correspondence related to case management
- Administrative documents
Digital Conversion: The Bexar County District Clerk has implemented a digital records management system for divorce records that:
- Converts paper records to digital format
- Maintains searchable indexes
- Preserves original signatures and certifications
- Ensures compliance with Texas Government Code § 51.303 regarding records preservation
Historical Records: For divorce records predating electronic systems (generally pre-1990):
- Original paper documents are maintained in secure storage
- Many have been microfilmed for preservation
- Access requires specialized assistance from the District Clerk's staff
The permanent retention of divorce decrees ensures that individuals can obtain proof of divorce regardless of when the divorce was granted. However, supporting documentation and exhibits may be subject to destruction after the applicable retention period has expired. Individuals seeking historical divorce records should contact the District Clerk's Office directly for assistance with locating these documents.
How To Get a Divorce In Bexar County
Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Bexar County must follow specific procedures established under Texas law. The process involves several distinct steps:
Eligibility Requirements:
- Either spouse must have been a Texas resident for the preceding six months
- Either spouse must have been a Bexar County resident for the preceding 90 days
- These residency requirements are established by Texas Family Code § 6.301
Initial Filing:
- Prepare an Original Petition for Divorce using forms available from the Bexar County District Clerk
- File the petition with the District Clerk's Office at:
Bexar County District Clerk
Paul Elizondo Tower
101 W. Nueva, Suite 217
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 335-2113
Bexar County District Clerk
- Pay the filing fee (approximately $300) or submit an Affidavit of Inability to Pay if financially qualified
- Request issuance of citation for service on the other spouse
Service of Process:
- Arrange for formal service through:
- Bexar County Sheriff's Office
- Licensed process server
- Certified mail, return receipt requested
- If the spouse agrees, they may sign a Waiver of Service
- File proof of service or waiver with the court
Temporary Orders (if needed):
- Request hearings for temporary child support, custody, or property use
- Attend scheduled hearings
- Comply with court's temporary orders
Negotiation and Settlement:
- Exchange financial information through formal discovery or voluntary disclosure
- Participate in mediation if ordered by the court or voluntarily
- Develop agreements on property division and child-related matters
Finalization:
- Prepare Final Decree of Divorce documenting all agreements
- Schedule final hearing (after 60-day waiting period)
- Attend hearing with completed paperwork
- Obtain judge's signature on Final Decree
- File signed decree with District Clerk
Post-Divorce Matters:
- Implement property transfers as ordered
- Update estate planning documents
- Change names on accounts, titles, and identification
- Establish child support payment mechanisms if applicable
Self-represented individuals may obtain assistance through the Bexar County Law Library or Texas RioGrande Legal Aid, though complex cases typically benefit from professional legal representation.
How To Get Divorce Papers In Bexar County
Individuals initiating or responding to divorce proceedings in Bexar County can obtain the necessary legal forms through several authorized channels:
District Clerk's Office: The Bexar County District Clerk provides standardized divorce forms that can be:
- Downloaded directly from the official website
- Requested in person at:
Bexar County District Clerk
Paul Elizondo Tower
101 W. Nueva, Suite 217
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 335-2113
Bexar County District Clerk
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (excluding county holidays)
- Obtained by mail by sending a written request with a self-addressed stamped envelope
Available Forms Include:
- Original Petition for Divorce (with and without children)
- Waiver of Service
- Answer to Divorce Petition
- Final Decree of Divorce templates
- Child Support Worksheets
- Standard Possession Order templates
- Financial Information Statements
Law Library Resources: The Bexar County Law Library maintains reference copies of divorce forms and self-help materials:
Bexar County Law Library
Bexar County Justice Center
300 Dolorosa, Suite 1.04
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 335-3971
Bexar County Law Library
Texas Supreme Court Approved Forms: The Texas Supreme Court has approved standardized divorce forms for uncontested cases without children or significant property, available through the Texas Law Help website.
Legal Aid Organizations: Texas RioGrande Legal Aid provides form assistance to qualifying low-income individuals:
Texas RioGrande Legal Aid
1111 N. Main Avenue
San Antonio, TX 78212
(210) 212-3700
Texas RioGrande Legal Aid
It is important to note that while standardized forms are available, they may not address complex legal situations. The Texas Family Code establishes specific requirements for divorce pleadings and orders that must be met for the court to accept and process the documents. Individuals with complex property issues, contested custody matters, or unique circumstances may benefit from professional legal assistance.