How are Divorce Records Generated in Wyoming?

According to the United States Census Bureau, the divorce rate in Wyoming is 9.4. Divorce is the dissolution of a marriage when two people who were previously married legally reverse their decision.

There are specific grounds or acceptable reasons to file for a divorce in Wyoming. Although Wyoming is considered a "no-fault" divorce state, a judge can still grant a "fault" divorce. One way of filing for a no-fault divorce is to cite incompatibility or irreconcilable differences as a reason why the marriage may and should not continue. An example could be that one spouse wants to relocate but does not. The judge will then often grant them a divorce.

There are other processes of getting a divorce in Wyoming. A mediated divorce usually happens when a couple does not agree on specific terms, so they hire a mediator who could be a counselor, retired judge, or attorney, as a neutral third-party. This method is used when both spouses feel comfortable and safe around each other.

If children are involved in the divorce, a judge or attorney may ask that a lawyer be appointed to the case specifically to focus on the children's needs. There is also the option of legal separation in Wyoming. This is not a divorce but a legal agreement to separate without legally ending the marriage. Decisions such as child custody, financial support, and insurance agreements are made in a separation.

There are certain grounds needed to file for a fault divorce in Wyoming. According to Wyoming statutes WY ST § 20–2–104 and WY ST § 20–2–105, common grounds for divorce are:

• Infidelity, or cheating, by the other spouse
• Physical or emotional abuse
• Alcohol or drug addiction
• Lack of financial security or support
• Incurable insanity, defined by the other spouse being in a psychiatric hospital for at least two years

Are Divorce Records Public in Wyoming?

Generally, divorce records are considered confidential in Wyoming. Most details held within them are sealed by default and not available to the public. However, other vital information within them, such as testimonies, summons, and motions, may be viewed by any member of the public. Wyoming statutes state that certain information held in records be automatically sealed, such as financial details, child support agreements, and information regarding minors or victims of abuse.

What are the types of Divorce Records Available in Wyoming?

In Wyoming, there are three ways that a divorce is recorded: divorce certificates, divorce decrees, and complete divorce records. While all three are referred to as "divorce records", there are differences in cost, who may access them, and how to utilize them. A certificate is the simplest divorce record that states a divorce has happened. It names the two parties, the date and time of the divorce, and the location of the divorce. These are the most frequently requested when one of the parties wants to apply for a new marriage certificate or legally change their name. Divorce decrees have more information, along with information held within divorce certificates. Divorce decrees list the judge's final decision on the case and the agreements made during the process. These agreements include financial support such as alimony or child support, division of property and debts, visitation schedules, and any other decisions made by the end of a divorce case. These are available at the Office of the Wyoming District Court Clerk in the county where their divorce was finalized, but only by those involved or those with a legal court order. A divorce record is the most complete document of a divorce, containing all testimonies, filings, motions, summons, arguments, and evidence produced during the divorce process. A divorce record technically serves as the case file for a divorce case, and may be requested at the courthouse where the case was heard and finalized.

How Do I Get Divorce Records in Wyoming?

In Wyoming, District or County Court Clerks hold and maintain all family court records, including divorce records. To find a divorce record, requesting parties must determine which courthouse the divorce was finalized. It is also important to note that the different types of divorce records serve other purposes, and it may be necessary to request that parties contact the courthouse before deciding which kind of document is needed. If the records are available, eligible parties may submit requests in person or by mail as long as all necessary information and fees are included. Typical information used to access divorce records is:

• The names of the divorced parties as they appear on the record
• The case file number
• The year or date range during which the divorce was finalized. Note: an extensive date range may require extra fees to be paid
• Government-issued identification such as a driver's license, state ID, or passport

Some Wyoming district courts may accept divorce record requests by phone or email. In these cases, copy fees and payment options may differ. The standard fee for a Wyoming divorce record is $10 per copy. If the requesting party needs more than one copy, the fee changes to $1 per every additional first page and 50 cents for the rest of the pages. Fees may also vary depending on the district or county.

How to Obtain a Wyoming Divorce Certificate

To obtain a Wyoming divorce certificate as one of the divorced parties, the Vital Statistics Services of the Wyoming Department of Health can provide copies for all counties and accept in-person and mail requests. However, if the divorce was finalized 50 years ago or more, the records will be held and maintained by the Wyoming State Archives.

In-person

For in-person requests of divorce certificates, visit the Vital Statistics Services Division with all necessary information and documentation, including:

• The names of the divorced parties
• The date or general date range of the finalization of the divorce
• The city or county where the divorce took place

Requesting parties should find and print out the Application for a Certified Copy of a Vital Record with the above information and all other information, including copies of government-issued I. D. and then submit the form to the main office at:

Wyoming Department of Health
Vital Statistics Services
2300 Capitol Avenue
Hathaway Building
Cheyenne, WY 82002

With this method, the fee is $20 for each copy of a record if it is a certified copy. Additionally, there are fees for every extra copy. The office accepts checks or money orders for in-person requests, made payable to the Wyoming Vital Statistics Services.

By mail

Requests for divorce certificates by mail are similar to in-person requests. First, download the Vital Records Application Form, print and fill it out as completely as possible, and place it in a self-addressed envelope with a stamp that includes all necessary fees as stated above, a photocopy of a government-issued ID, and mail it to:

Vital Statistics Services
2300 Capitol Avenue
Hathaway Building
Cheyenne, WY 82002

As with in-person requests, requests made by mail are only payable by checks or money orders made out to the Wyoming Vital Statistics Services.

Who Can Obtain Divorce Records in Wyoming?

Wyoming divorce decrees and certificates are confidential documents to members of the public. Still, both are available for the parties involved in the divorce, including their immediate family, lawyers, and the presiding judge. Members of the public may access partial, uncertified records, but cannot access divorce decrees or divorce certificates.

Are Wyoming Divorce Records Available Online?

Divorce records in Wyoming may be available online through third-party websites. However, the cost and accuracy of the information cannot be guaranteed, as these sites are not government-sponsored. Depending on the district court where the divorce was finalized, requesting these records through email may also be possible.

How Do I Seal My Divorce Records in Wyoming?

Most details in Wyoming divorce records are sealed, but some are left public. To seal the information that may be made public, the divorced parties must file separate petitions to seal these records. These petitions must include justification for removing the record from public viewing. Ultimately, it is left up to the judge to decide whether or not to seal a divorce record.