Calcasieu County Divorce Records
What Are Calcasieu County Divorce Records?
Divorce records in Calcasieu Parish are official legal documents maintained by the Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court that document the dissolution of marriage within the jurisdiction. These records constitute part of the parish's vital records system and serve as the authoritative documentation of marital status changes for residents. Pursuant to Louisiana Civil Code § 103, divorce proceedings in Louisiana are governed by specific statutory requirements that determine both the content and accessibility of these records.
Divorce records typically include:
- Petition for divorce
- Summons and service documentation
- Responses from the respondent spouse
- Interim orders and judgments
- Final judgment of divorce
- Property settlement agreements
- Child custody and support arrangements
- Spousal support determinations
These records serve multiple essential functions for individuals and society, including:
- Providing legal proof of marital status change
- Establishing eligibility for remarriage
- Documenting legal name changes resulting from divorce
- Supporting applications for Social Security benefits
- Verifying status for loan applications
- Establishing eligibility for certain immigration benefits
- Facilitating genealogical research
The 14th Judicial District Court of Louisiana, which serves Calcasieu Parish, processes divorce cases and generates the official records that are subsequently maintained by the Clerk of Court's office. Under Louisiana law, divorce records are created and maintained according to standardized procedures to ensure their accuracy, completeness, and legal validity.
Are Calcasieu County Divorce Records Public?
Divorce records in Calcasieu Parish maintain a dual status regarding public accessibility. The Louisiana Public Records Law § 44:1 establishes the general presumption of openness for government records, including court records. However, this access is subject to important limitations and exceptions, particularly regarding sensitive family court matters.
Court divorce case files in Calcasieu Parish are generally considered public records with the following distinctions:
- Basic case information (parties' names, case numbers, filing dates, and general procedural history) is typically available to the public through the Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court's online search services.
- Detailed filings and exhibits may contain sensitive personal and financial information that could be subject to redaction or restricted access.
- Cases involving domestic violence allegations, child abuse, or other sensitive matters may be partially or completely sealed by judicial order.
- Records containing Social Security numbers, financial account information, and certain medical information are typically redacted from public versions of documents.
Certified divorce certificates, which provide official verification of a divorce decree, have more restricted access:
- Parties to the divorce and their legal representatives
- Individuals with a tangible legal interest (such as subsequent spouses in certain circumstances)
- Authorized government agencies for official purposes
- Persons with a court order authorizing access
The Louisiana Children's Code § 412 provides additional protections for records involving minor children, which may further restrict public access to certain divorce proceedings and related documents when child custody matters are involved.
How To Find a Divorce Record In Calcasieu County in 2026
Members of the public seeking divorce records in Calcasieu Parish may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court maintains these records and provides multiple channels for retrieval:
In-Person Requests:
- Visit the Civil Records Department at the Calcasieu Parish Courthouse.
- Complete a records request form, providing the names of both parties and approximate date of divorce.
- Present valid government-issued photo identification.
- Pay the applicable search and copy fees (fees vary based on certification requirements and number of pages).
- Records may be provided immediately if readily accessible, or within several business days for older records.
Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court - Civil Records Department
1000 Ryan Street, Room 8
Lake Charles, LA 70601
(337) 437-3550
Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court
Mail Requests:
- Download and complete the records request form from the Clerk of Court website.
- Include a copy of valid government-issued photo identification.
- Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope and appropriate payment (check or money order).
- Mail the complete package to the Civil Records Department address.
- Processing typically requires 5-10 business days plus mailing time.
Online Requests:
- Access the Calcasieu Parish Clerk's eSearch portal.
- Register for an account or log in to an existing account.
- Select the appropriate search parameters (names, date ranges, case types).
- Review search results to identify the relevant case.
- Access available documents according to system permissions.
- Pay applicable fees for document access and downloads.
For certified copies of divorce decrees, requestors must provide additional verification of their relationship to the case or legal interest in obtaining the record.
How To Look Up Divorce Records in Calcasieu County Online?
Calcasieu Parish provides comprehensive online access to divorce records through its electronic records system. The digital platform allows authorized users to search, view, and in some cases, download divorce record information. To access these records online, individuals should follow these procedures:
- Navigate to the Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court's eSearch portal.
- New users must create an account by providing:
- Full legal name
- Valid email address
- Contact information
- Creation of secure login credentials
- Existing users may log in using their established credentials.
- After accessing the system, select "Civil Records" from the search options.
- Enter search criteria, which may include:
- Party names (plaintiff and/or defendant)
- Case number (if known)
- Filing date range
- Case type (select "Divorce" or "Dissolution of Marriage")
- Review the search results list, which typically displays:
- Case numbers
- Party names
- Filing dates
- Case types
- Current status
- Select the relevant case to view available details.
- Pay any applicable access or document fees using the secure online payment system.
The online search services provided by the Clerk's office offer different subscription levels:
- Basic searches (case existence and status) may be available at no cost
- Detailed document access typically requires payment of statutory fees
- Subscription options for frequent users such as attorneys and title companies
Users should note that while many documents are available online, certain sensitive filings may be accessible only in person at the Clerk's office, and certified copies must be requested through official channels rather than printed from the online system.
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Calcasieu County?
Calcasieu Parish residents and interested parties have several options for accessing basic divorce record information without incurring fees, though comprehensive access typically involves some costs. The following methods provide free or low-cost access to divorce record information:
Public Access Terminals: The Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court provides public access computer terminals at the courthouse where visitors may conduct basic searches of the court's electronic records system at no charge. These terminals are available during regular business hours:
Calcasieu Parish Courthouse
1000 Ryan Street
Lake Charles, LA 70601
Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
(337) 437-3550
Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court
Limited Online Access: The Calcasieu Parish Clerk's online portal offers limited free access that typically includes:
- Verification of case existence
- Basic case information (filing date, parties' names, case type)
- General case status information
- Listing of documents filed (though viewing documents usually requires payment)
Law Library Resources: The 14th Judicial District Court Law Library maintains public records that may be accessed for research purposes:
14th Judicial District Court Law Library
1001 Ryan Street, Room 207
Lake Charles, LA 70601
Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
(337) 437-3880
Louisiana State Archives: For historical divorce records (generally older than 50 years), researchers may access:
Louisiana State Archives
3851 Essen Lane
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
(225) 922-1000
Louisiana State Archives
While basic information may be available without charge, fees typically apply for:
- Printed copies of documents
- Certified copies of divorce decrees
- Extensive searches requiring staff assistance
- Access to complete case files
- Document downloads from online systems
Pursuant to Louisiana Revised Statutes § 13:841, the Clerk of Court is authorized to collect fees for services rendered, including document reproduction and certification.
What's Included in a Divorce Records In Calcasieu County
Divorce records in Calcasieu Parish comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the legal dissolution of marriage from initiation through final judgment. These records typically contain several distinct components that collectively document the proceedings and outcomes:
Petition for Divorce:
- Legal names of both spouses
- Date and location of marriage
- Grounds for divorce (Louisiana recognizes both fault and no-fault grounds)
- Residency information establishing jurisdiction
- Statement of community property status
- Preliminary requests regarding property, support, and custody
Procedural Documents:
- Summons and proof of service
- Preliminary motions and court orders
- Discovery requests and responses
- Transcripts of hearings and depositions
- Scheduling orders and continuances
- Financial disclosure forms
Judgment Documents:
- Temporary orders regarding interim arrangements
- Property settlement agreements
- Child custody determinations
- Child support calculations and orders
- Spousal support (alimony) determinations
- Final judgment of divorce
- Name change orders (if applicable)
Supporting Documentation:
- Financial records relevant to property division
- Parenting plans and custody evaluations
- Expert witness reports and testimonies
- Mediation agreements
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements
- Domestic abuse protective orders (if applicable)
The Civil Records Department of the Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court maintains these records in accordance with Louisiana law. The level of detail contained in divorce records varies significantly based on whether the divorce was contested or uncontested, whether minor children were involved, and the complexity of property division matters.
Certified copies of divorce decrees typically include only the final judgment document rather than the entire case file, though the complete record remains available through proper channels and with appropriate authorization.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In Calcasieu County?
Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Calcasieu Parish may obtain certified copies of divorce decrees through established procedures. These certified documents serve as legal verification of marital dissolution and are commonly required for remarriage, name changes, and various administrative purposes.
In-Person Requests:
- Visit the Civil Records Department of the Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court.
- Complete the Certificate Request Form, providing:
- Full names of both parties as they appear on the divorce decree
- Date of divorce (approximate if exact date unknown)
- Case number (if known)
- Present valid government-issued photo identification.
- Pay the certification fee (currently $10.00 for the first certified copy and $5.00 for each additional copy requested simultaneously).
- Certified copies are typically provided while you wait if the divorce occurred within the past 10 years; older records may require additional processing time.
Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court
1000 Ryan Street
Lake Charles, LA 70601
Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
(337) 437-3550
Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court
Mail Requests:
- Download the Certificate Request Form from the Clerk's website.
- Complete the form with all required information.
- Include a photocopy of valid government-issued photo identification.
- Enclose a check or money order for the appropriate fee.
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
- Mail the complete package to the Clerk of Court's office.
Authorized Requestors: Pursuant to Louisiana law, certified copies of divorce decrees may be issued to:
- Parties named in the decree
- Legal representatives with proper authorization
- Immediate family members with documented relationship
- Government agencies for official purposes
- Individuals with court orders authorizing access
For divorces finalized in Calcasieu Parish prior to 1956, requestors may need to contact:
Louisiana State Archives
3851 Essen Lane
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
(225) 922-1000
Louisiana State Archives
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Calcasieu County?
While divorce proceedings in Calcasieu Parish are generally matters of public record, Louisiana law provides several mechanisms through which certain aspects of divorce cases may be kept confidential. The confidentiality of divorce records is governed by both statutory provisions and judicial discretion.
Sealing of Records: Pursuant to Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure § 1426, the court may issue protective orders to seal specific documents or entire case files when appropriate grounds exist. Grounds for sealing may include:
- Protection of minor children's privacy interests
- Prevention of disclosure of sensitive financial information
- Safeguarding information related to domestic abuse
- Protection of medical or mental health information
- Prevention of identity theft or fraud
Confidential Information: Certain categories of information are automatically protected from public disclosure in court filings:
- Social Security numbers
- Financial account numbers
- Names of minor children (in certain contexts)
- Victims of sexual or domestic abuse
- Medical and mental health records
Covenant Marriage Divorce Proceedings: Divorces involving covenant marriages, as established under Louisiana Revised Statutes § 9:272, may involve mandatory counseling sessions, the records of which remain confidential.
Procedure for Requesting Confidentiality:
- File a motion to seal specific documents or the entire record
- Demonstrate compelling reasons that outweigh the public interest in access
- Request the least restrictive means of protecting sensitive information
- Obtain a court order specifically identifying which documents are to be sealed
The 14th Judicial District Court evaluates requests for confidentiality on a case-by-case basis, balancing privacy interests against the presumption of public access to court records. Even when records are sealed, they remain accessible to:
- The parties to the divorce
- Their legal representatives
- Court personnel with legitimate need for access
- Other individuals specifically authorized by court order
How Long Does a Divorce Take In Calcasieu County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in Calcasieu Parish varies significantly based on several factors, including the type of divorce, complexity of issues, and level of agreement between parties. Louisiana law establishes minimum waiting periods that affect the timeline for all divorces processed through the 14th Judicial District Court.
Statutory Waiting Periods:
- For no-fault divorces based on living separate and apart: 180 days if no minor children; 365 days if minor children are involved, pursuant to Louisiana Civil Code § 103.1
- For fault-based divorces: No mandatory waiting period, but procedural requirements typically extend the timeline
Uncontested Divorces: When parties agree on all issues, including property division, support, and custody:
- Minimum processing time: 2-3 months after filing (including mandatory waiting periods)
- Average completion time: 3-4 months
- Factors affecting timeline: Court docket congestion, completeness of paperwork, attorney scheduling
Contested Divorces: When parties disagree on one or more substantive issues:
- Minimum processing time: 6 months
- Average completion time: 9-18 months
- Complex cases involving significant assets or custody disputes: 18-36 months
Covenant Marriage Divorces: For couples who elected covenant marriage status:
- Minimum processing time: 18-24 months
- Additional requirements include mandatory counseling and limited grounds for divorce
According to statistics from the Louisiana Supreme Court, the average time from filing to disposition for divorce cases in Calcasieu Parish is approximately:
- 120 days for uncontested divorces without minor children
- 180 days for uncontested divorces with minor children
- 365 days for contested divorces with property disputes
- 450+ days for contested divorces with custody disputes
Factors that commonly extend the timeline include:
- Discovery disputes requiring judicial intervention
- Multiple pre-trial conferences and hearings
- Court-ordered custody evaluations
- Property valuation complexities
- Expert witness involvement
- Trial scheduling constraints
- Post-judgment modification requests
How Long Does Calcasieu County Keep Divorce Records?
Calcasieu Parish maintains divorce records according to a structured retention schedule that balances historical preservation with practical storage considerations. The retention of these records is governed by state archival requirements and local administrative policies.
Permanent Records: The following divorce record components are maintained permanently by the Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court:
- Final Judgments of Divorce
- Property Settlement Agreements incorporated into judgments
- Child Custody and Support Orders
- Minute entries documenting court proceedings
- Indices of cases (plaintiff/defendant name indices)
These permanent records are maintained in accordance with Louisiana Revised Statutes § 44:36, which establishes retention requirements for public records.
Limited Retention Records: Certain supporting documents may be subject to limited retention periods:
- Discovery materials: 10 years after final judgment
- Procedural motions and orders: 10 years after final judgment
- Financial disclosure forms: 10 years after final judgment
- Witness lists and exhibits: 10 years after final judgment
Record Format Transitions: The Calcasieu Parish Clerk's office has implemented a phased digitization program:
- Records from 1990-present: Maintained in digital format with backup systems
- Records from 1950-1989: Progressively being digitized
- Records prior to 1950: Maintained in original format with microfilm backup
Historical Records Transfer: Divorce records older than 50 years may be transferred to:
Louisiana State Archives
3851 Essen Lane
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
(225) 922-1000
Louisiana State Archives
Even after transfer to the State Archives, indices and finding aids remain with the Clerk of Court to facilitate record location. The Clerk's office maintains a comprehensive cross-reference system to direct researchers to the appropriate repository for historical records.
How To Get a Divorce In Calcasieu County
Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Calcasieu Parish must follow specific legal procedures established by Louisiana law and local court rules. The process varies depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, and whether minor children are involved.
Residency Requirements: Before filing for divorce, at least one spouse must:
- Be a Louisiana resident
- Have maintained domicile in the state for at least 12 months preceding the filing
- File in the parish where either spouse resides or where the couple last lived together
Uncontested Divorce Procedure:
- Prepare the Petition for Divorce, which must include:
- Names and addresses of both spouses
- Date and place of marriage
- Statement regarding children of the marriage
- Grounds for divorce (typically living separate and apart)
- Proposed arrangements for property, support, and custody if applicable
- File the petition with the Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court and pay the filing fee (approximately $250-350).
- Serve the petition on the other spouse through:
- Sheriff's service
- Private process server
- Waiver of service (if spouse agrees)
- Wait the mandatory separation period:
- 180 days if no minor children
- 365 days if minor children are involved
- File a Motion for Final Divorce after the waiting period expires.
- Attend the court hearing if required.
- Receive the signed Judgment of Divorce.
Contested Divorce Procedure:
- File the initial petition as described above.
- Respond to or file any temporary motions regarding interim support, custody, or use of property.
- Engage in the discovery process to exchange financial and other relevant information.
- Participate in mandatory mediation for cases involving custody disputes.
- Attend pre-trial conferences and hearings as scheduled.
- Prepare for and participate in trial if settlement is not reached.
- Receive the court's judgment after trial.
Legal Assistance Resources:
- Southwest Louisiana Law Center 1011 Lakeshore Drive, Suite 402 Lake Charles, LA 70601 (337) 436-3308
- Louisiana State Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service (800) 421-5722
Self-Help Resources: The 14th Judicial District Court provides forms and instructions for self-represented litigants at the courthouse law library.
How To Get Divorce Papers In Calcasieu County
Individuals initiating or responding to divorce proceedings in Calcasieu Parish have several options for obtaining the necessary legal forms and documents. These resources ensure proper compliance with Louisiana's procedural requirements for divorce filings.
Court-Provided Forms: The 14th Judicial District Court provides standardized forms for uncontested divorces at:
14th Judicial District Court Law Library
1001 Ryan Street, Room 207
Lake Charles, LA 70601
Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
(337) 437-3880
Available forms typically include:
- Petition for Divorce
- Waiver of Service and Citation
- Affidavit of Facts
- Motion for Preliminary Default
- Judgment of Divorce
- Child Support Worksheets (if applicable)
- Income and Expense Affidavits
Clerk of Court's Office: Basic procedural forms may be obtained from:
Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court - Civil Records Department
1000 Ryan Street, Room 8
Lake Charles, LA 70601
(337) 437-3550
Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court
Online Resources: Some standard forms are available through:
Legal Aid Services: Low-income individuals may qualify for assistance through:
Southwest Louisiana Law Center
1011 Lakeshore Drive, Suite 402
Lake Charles, LA 70601
(337) 436-3308
Southwest Louisiana Law Center
Private Attorney Services: For complex cases, contested matters, or personalized legal documents, individuals may consult:
- Private attorneys specializing in family law
- Document preparation services (limited to form completion, not legal advice)
- Louisiana State Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service (800) 421-5722
Filing Completed Forms: Once prepared, divorce papers must be filed with:
Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court
1000 Ryan Street
Lake Charles, LA 70601
Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
(337) 437-3550
Calcasieu Parish Clerk of Court
Current filing fees (subject to change):
- Basic divorce petition: $250-350
- Additional fees for service, certified copies, and supplemental filings
- Fee waivers available for qualifying low-income individuals through in forma pauperis applications
Lookup Divorce Records in Calcasieu County
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