Wicomico Public Records /Wicomico County Divorce Records

Wicomico County Divorce Records

What Are Wicomico County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Wicomico County are official legal documents that provide evidence of the dissolution of a marriage within the county's jurisdiction. These records are maintained pursuant to Maryland Family Law Code § 7-103, which governs the grounds for absolute divorce in the state. Divorce records consist of various court documents filed during divorce proceedings and are maintained by the Circuit Court for Wicomico County.

Divorce records typically serve multiple purposes:

Legal proof of marital status change
Documentation required for remarriage
Evidence for name change processes
Verification for Social Security benefits
Supporting documentation for loan applications
Required evidence for immigration matters
Historical and genealogical research

The Maryland Judiciary maintains these records as part of its responsibility to document judicial proceedings related to the dissolution of marriages. Under Maryland law, divorce proceedings are categorized as equity cases and are filed within the county where either party resides.

Are Wicomico County Divorce Records Public?

Wicomico County divorce records have a dual status regarding public accessibility. Court divorce case files are generally considered public records under the Maryland Public Information Act § 4-101, which establishes the public's right to access government records. However, this access is subject to important limitations and exceptions.

The public accessibility of divorce records is structured as follows:

Court Case Files: Basic case information including party names, case numbers, and filing dates are publicly accessible through the Maryland Judiciary Case Search system.
Divorce Decrees: Final judgments of divorce are generally public records available through the Circuit Court.
Financial Statements: Documents containing sensitive financial information may be sealed or redacted.
Records with Minors: Information pertaining to minor children is often protected from public disclosure.
Certified Divorce Certificates: These official verifications of divorce are restricted to parties to the divorce and their authorized representatives through the Maryland Department of Health's Division of Vital Records.

The court may seal certain divorce records upon motion by either party if disclosure would cause undue harm or if the records contain sensitive information such as domestic violence details, financial account numbers, or Social Security numbers. This sealing process is governed by Maryland Rules of Procedure 16-934, which requires the court to balance privacy interests against the public's right to access.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Wicomico County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in Wicomico County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The process varies depending on when the divorce was granted and what specific information is needed.

For divorces filed with the Circuit Court:

Visit the Clerk of the Circuit Court for Wicomico County in person:

Circuit Court for Wicomico County
101 North Division Street, 3rd Floor
Salisbury, MD 21801
410-543-6551
Circuit Court for Wicomico County

Complete a records request form specifying the names of the parties and approximate date of divorce.
Present valid government-issued photo identification.
Pay the applicable search and copy fees ($12 for a record search plus $5 per page for copies).
For certified copies, an additional fee of $5 per document applies.

For divorces granted after January 1, 1992, verification can also be obtained through:

Maryland Department of Health - Division of Vital Records
6550 Reisterstown Road
Baltimore, MD 21215
410-764-3038
Maryland Department of Health

Requestors must provide:

Full names of both parties
Date of divorce (month and year at minimum)
County where divorce was granted
Relationship to the persons named in the record
Valid government-issued photo identification

The current fee for a divorce verification letter is $12, payable by check or money order to the Division of Vital Records.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Wicomico County Online?

Wicomico County residents and interested parties may access certain divorce record information through online platforms, though complete divorce files are not available digitally. The primary online resources include:

Maryland Judiciary Case Search: This database provides basic case information for divorces filed after 1989.
- Visit Maryland Judiciary Case Search
- Select "Wicomico County Circuit Court" from the jurisdiction menu
- Search by party name (last name, first name)
- Filter results by case type "Family" or "Divorce"
- Note that only basic information is displayed (names, case numbers, filing dates, and case status)
Maryland Electronic Courts (MDEC): For cases filed after MDEC implementation in Wicomico County:
- Registered attorneys and parties to cases can access more detailed filings
- Registration requires verification of identity and relationship to the case
- Visit Maryland Electronic Courts
Maryland State Archives: For historical divorce records:
- The Maryland State Archives maintains an online index to equity records
- Search capabilities include divorce cases dating back to the county's formation
- Complete records must be requested in person or by mail

Online searches provide limited information and typically do not include access to the complete divorce file or decree. Sensitive information, financial disclosures, and matters involving minor children are generally not available through online platforms pursuant to Maryland Rules 16-934 regarding access to court records.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Wicomico County?

Members of the public seeking to access divorce records in Wicomico County without incurring fees have limited but viable options. Free access methods focus primarily on basic case information rather than obtaining copies of documents.

Free access options include:

In-Person Inspection at the Courthouse:
- Visit the Clerk of the Circuit Court during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM)
- Request to view specific divorce case files (requires case number or names and approximate date)
- Public terminals are available for searching case information
- While viewing is free, any copies requested will incur standard fees
Maryland Judiciary Case Search:
- This free online database provides basic case information
- Access is available at Maryland Judiciary Case Search
- Information includes party names, case numbers, filing dates, and case status
- No registration is required for basic searches
Public Library Resources:
- The Wicomico Public Library provides free internet access
- Library computers can be used to access the Maryland Judiciary Case Search
- Reference librarians may assist with navigating public records resources
Law Library Access:
- The Wicomico County Law Library located in the courthouse provides reference materials
- Legal research databases may be available for public use
- Staff can provide guidance on locating case information

It is important to note that while basic case information may be accessed without charge, obtaining certified copies or document reproductions will always incur the standard fees established by the Maryland Judiciary. Additionally, divorce verifications through the Division of Vital Records require payment of the statutory fee.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Wicomico County

Divorce records in Wicomico County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the legal dissolution of a marriage. These records are maintained as chancery records by the Circuit Court and typically contain several key components.

The standard divorce file includes:

Complaint for Absolute Divorce: The initial filing that states the grounds for divorce under Maryland Family Law Code § 7-103 and requests specific relief
Summons: Official notice to the respondent about the divorce action
Answer: The respondent's formal reply to the complaint
Counter-Complaint: If filed, the respondent's own grounds for divorce
Financial Statements: Sworn statements detailing assets, liabilities, income, and expenses
Property Settlement Agreement: If reached, the document outlining division of marital property
Child Custody and Support Provisions: When applicable, details regarding:
- Legal and physical custody arrangements
- Visitation schedules
- Child support calculations and payment terms
Marital Settlement Agreement: If negotiated, the comprehensive agreement addressing all divorce terms
Testimony Transcripts: Records of hearings and testimony provided
Final Decree of Absolute Divorce: The court's final judgment that:
- Legally terminates the marriage
- Allocates marital property
- Establishes alimony if awarded
- Formalizes child custody and support arrangements
- Restores maiden name if requested

The divorce decree serves as the official legal document confirming the dissolution of marriage and outlining all court-ordered terms. This document is particularly important as it provides legal proof that the marriage has been terminated and establishes the rights and responsibilities of both parties going forward.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Wicomico County?

Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Wicomico County have multiple options for obtaining this documentation, depending on their specific needs and the date of the divorce.

For divorces granted in Wicomico County Circuit Court:

Certified Copy of Divorce Decree:
- Visit or contact the Clerk of the Circuit Court:
Circuit Court for Wicomico County
101 North Division Street, 3rd Floor
Salisbury, MD 21801
410-543-6551
Circuit Court for Wicomico County
- Complete a records request form with names of both parties and date of divorce
- Provide valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay the applicable fees ($12 search fee plus $5 per page and $5 for certification)
- Mail requests must include a self-addressed stamped envelope and payment
Divorce Verification Letter (for divorces after January 1, 1992):
- Contact the Maryland Department of Health's Division of Vital Records:
Maryland Department of Health - Division of Vital Records
6550 Reisterstown Road
Baltimore, MD 21215
410-764-3038
Maryland Department of Health
- Complete the application for a divorce verification
- Provide required identification and proof of relationship to parties
- Submit the $12 fee per verification letter
- Allow 4-6 weeks for processing by mail or same-day service for in-person requests
Historical Divorce Records (pre-1992):
- For older divorces, contact the Maryland State Archives:
Maryland State Archives
350 Rowe Boulevard
Annapolis, MD 21401
410-260-6400
Maryland State Archives
- Provide names, approximate date, and county of divorce
- Research fees may apply for extensive searches

Acceptable forms of identification include a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. For third-party requests, additional documentation demonstrating legal interest may be required pursuant to Maryland's vital records access regulations.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Wicomico County?

While divorce proceedings in Wicomico County are generally matters of public record, Maryland law provides several mechanisms through which certain aspects of divorce cases may be shielded from public view. The confidentiality of divorce records is governed by Maryland Rule 16-934, which establishes procedures for sealing or limiting access to court records.

Circumstances under which divorce records may be confidential include:

Sealed Records by Court Order:
- Either party may file a motion to seal specific documents or the entire case file
- The court must find that a compelling privacy interest outweighs the public interest in access
- The judge must use the least restrictive means to protect sensitive information
- Orders to seal must specify the precise documents affected and duration of the sealing
Automatically Shielded Information:
- Certain information is routinely protected from public disclosure:
  - Social Security numbers
  - Financial account numbers
  - Home addresses in certain cases
  - Names of minor children
  - Medical and psychological reports
  - Income tax returns
Domestic Violence Considerations:
- Cases involving allegations of domestic violence may receive additional confidentiality protections
- Address Confidentiality Program participants have enhanced privacy safeguards
- Protective orders may include provisions restricting information disclosure
Adoption-Related Divorces:
- When divorce proceedings include adoption matters, those portions are confidential by statute
- Adoption records within divorce cases are sealed pursuant to Maryland Family Law Code § 5-3A-08
Limited Access to Financial Information:
- Detailed financial statements and disclosures may be restricted to parties and their attorneys
- Business valuation documents containing proprietary information may receive special protection

It is important to note that confidentiality in divorce proceedings is the exception rather than the rule. The burden rests with the party seeking confidentiality to demonstrate why specific information should not be publicly accessible. Even when records are sealed, basic case information typically remains available through the Maryland Judiciary Case Search system.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Wicomico County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Wicomico County varies significantly based on several key factors, including the type of divorce, level of agreement between parties, and court caseload. Understanding these timeframes helps residents set realistic expectations when initiating divorce proceedings.

Mutual Consent Divorce:

Fastest option: approximately 2-3 months from filing to final decree
Requirements include:
- Written settlement agreement resolving all issues
- Both parties appearing at the uncontested divorce hearing
- No minor children, or complete agreement on custody and support
According to Maryland Judiciary statistics, these cases typically conclude within 60-90 days

Uncontested Divorce with Separation Ground:

Requires 12-month separation period before filing under Maryland Family Law Code § 7-103(a)(4)
Once filed, processing takes approximately 3-4 months
Total time: 15-16 months (including mandatory separation period)

Contested Divorce:

Most time-intensive: 10-18 months after filing
Contributing factors include:
- Discovery process (typically 2-3 months)
- Mandatory settlement conferences
- Mediation sessions (often required by the court)
- Scheduling of pendente lite hearings for temporary orders
- Trial preparation and court scheduling
- Judicial caseload in Wicomico County Circuit Court

Fault-Based Divorce:

No waiting period for filing when using grounds such as adultery or cruelty
However, proving these grounds typically extends the process
Average timeframe: 8-14 months depending on complexity and evidence requirements

According to the Maryland Judiciary Statistical Abstract, the median time from filing to disposition for family law cases in Wicomico County is approximately 9 months, though individual cases may vary significantly from this average.

Factors that commonly extend divorce timeframes include:

Disputes over marital property valuation and division
Business ownership requiring complex financial analysis
Contested child custody matters requiring evaluations
Discovery disputes requiring judicial intervention
Requests for continuances by either party
Court congestion and scheduling limitations

How Long Does Wicomico County Keep Divorce Records?

Wicomico County maintains divorce records according to Maryland's comprehensive records retention schedule, which ensures the preservation of these important legal documents. The retention periods vary based on the type of record and its historical significance.

The retention schedule for divorce records in Wicomico County follows these guidelines:

Active Court Records:
- Complete case files are maintained by the Circuit Court Clerk's Office
- Records remain in the courthouse for approximately 12 years after case disposition
- During this period, records are readily accessible for public inspection and copying
- This retention period is established under Maryland Code, Courts and Judicial Proceedings § 16-308
Archival Transfer:
- After the active retention period, records are transferred to the Maryland State Archives
- This transfer typically occurs 12-15 years after case disposition
- The Maryland State Archives becomes the permanent custodian of these records
- Records remain permanently accessible through the Archives' reference services
Electronic Records:
- Since the implementation of the Maryland Electronic Courts (MDEC) system in Wicomico County:
  - Digital copies of divorce filings are maintained indefinitely
  - Electronic docket entries are preserved permanently
  - Paper originals may be destroyed after scanning and quality control verification
- This electronic preservation ensures long-term access to records
Divorce Verification Records:
- The Maryland Department of Health's Division of Vital Records maintains divorce verifications
- Records from January 1, 1992, to present are permanently maintained
- These records serve as official verification of divorce status
Indices and Dockets:
- Indices to divorce proceedings are maintained permanently
- Docket books and case indices from the county's formation to present are preserved
- These finding aids facilitate location of specific cases regardless of age

It is important to note that while the physical location of divorce records may change over time, the records themselves are never destroyed. The Maryland State Archives serves as the permanent repository for all court records of historical and legal significance, ensuring their availability for future generations.

How To Get a Divorce In Wicomico County

Residents seeking to dissolve a marriage in Wicomico County must follow Maryland's established legal procedures. The divorce process involves several key steps and varies depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested.

To initiate a divorce in Wicomico County:

Determine Eligibility:
- Verify residency requirements are met (at least one spouse must be a Maryland resident)
- Identify appropriate grounds for divorce under Maryland Family Law Code § 7-103
- Common grounds include:
  - Mutual consent (with written settlement agreement)
  - 12-month separation
  - Adultery
  - Desertion
  - Cruelty or excessively vicious conduct
File Initial Paperwork:
- Submit a Complaint for Absolute Divorce to:
Circuit Court for Wicomico County
101 North Division Street, 3rd Floor
Salisbury, MD 21801
410-543-6551
Circuit Court for Wicomico County
- Include required forms:
  - Civil Domestic Case Information Report (CC-DCM-001)
  - Financial Statement (if alimony or property division is requested)
  - Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (if children are involved)
- Pay the filing fee (currently $165, with fee waivers available for qualifying individuals)
Serve the Other Party:
- Arrange for proper service of the complaint and summons
- Service methods include:
  - Private process server
  - Certified mail, restricted delivery
  - Sheriff's service (additional fee applies)
- File proof of service with the court
Await Response or Request Default:
- The responding spouse has 30 days to file an Answer (60 days if out-of-state)
- If no response is filed, request a default judgment
Discovery and Negotiation:
- Exchange financial information and other relevant documents
- Participate in court-ordered mediation if applicable
- Negotiate settlement terms when possible
Attend Hearings:
- Scheduling conference to establish case timeline
- Settlement conference to resolve outstanding issues
- Merits hearing/trial if issues remain contested
Final Hearing:
- Provide testimony supporting grounds for divorce
- Present settlement agreement or argue contested issues
- Receive judgment of absolute divorce

For uncontested divorces, the court offers simplified procedures that may reduce both time and expense. Self-represented litigants can access forms and assistance through the Maryland Courts Self-Help Center or the Family Services Division located in the courthouse.

How To Get Divorce Papers In Wicomico County

Individuals seeking to initiate divorce proceedings in Wicomico County have several options for obtaining the necessary legal forms. These documents constitute the foundation of the divorce process and must be completed accurately to avoid procedural delays.

The following methods are available for obtaining divorce papers:

In-Person at the Courthouse:
- Visit the Circuit Court Clerk's Office:
Circuit Court for Wicomico County
101 North Division Street, 3rd Floor
Salisbury, MD 21801
410-543-6551
Circuit Court for Wicomico County
- Request divorce packet appropriate to your situation
- Court staff can provide forms but cannot offer legal advice
- Available during regular business hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Online Resources:
- Download forms from the Maryland Courts website
- Forms are organized by category and include detailed instructions
- Available forms include:
  - CC-DR-020: Complaint for Absolute Divorce
  - CC-DR-050: Financial Statement (Long Form)
  - CC-DR-030: Joint Statement of Parties Concerning Marital Property
  - CC-DR-033: Joint Statement of Parties Concerning Marital and Non-Marital Property
Family Law Self-Help Center:
- Located in the Circuit Court building
- Provides assistance with form selection and completion
- Offers information about court procedures
- No appointment necessary; services available on a walk-in basis
Maryland Legal Aid:
- Provides assistance to income-qualifying individuals
- Contact the Lower Eastern Shore office:
Maryland Legal Aid - Lower Eastern Shore Office
111 High Street
Salisbury, MD 21801
410-546-5511
Maryland Legal Aid
Law Library Resources:
- The Wicomico County Law Library provides access to legal reference materials
- Located in the Circuit Court building
- Staff can direct patrons to appropriate form books and resources

Essential forms for most divorce cases include:

Complaint for Absolute Divorce
Civil Domestic Case Information Report
Financial Statement (if property, alimony, or support issues exist)
Service documents (Writ of Summons, Return of Service)
Settlement Agreement (for mutual consent divorces)
Child custody and support forms (if applicable)

All forms must be completed accurately, notarized when required, and submitted with the appropriate filing fee or fee waiver application. The current filing fee for a divorce complaint in Wicomico County is $165, though this amount is subject to change.

Lookup Divorce Records in Wicomico County

Circuit Court for Wicomico County, MD - Clerk's Office

Records at Maryland Courts

Maryland Divorce Records Guide

Maryland Department of Health Divorce Verification

Other Categories in Maryland

Criminal Records Court Records Inmate Records Arrest records Warrant Search Property Records Divorce Records