Rockingham Public Records /Rockingham County Divorce Records

Rockingham County Divorce Records

What Are Rockingham County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Rockingham County are official legal documents maintained by the New Hampshire Judicial Branch that document the dissolution of marriage between two individuals. These records are created and maintained pursuant to New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated § 458, which governs divorce proceedings in the state. Divorce records typically originate in the Rockingham County Family Division of the Circuit Court, where divorce petitions are filed and proceedings are conducted.

Divorce records serve multiple important functions:

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

The New Hampshire Judicial Branch maintains these records as part of its official court documentation. Divorce records in Rockingham County consist of various documents that collectively provide a comprehensive record of the divorce proceeding and its outcome.

Are Rockingham County Divorce Records Public?

Rockingham County divorce records have a nuanced public access status governed by both New Hampshire's Right-to-Know Law (RSA 91-A) and specific provisions within family law statutes. The accessibility of these records varies depending on the specific document type and the information contained therein:

Court divorce case files: Generally accessible to the public with significant exceptions. Under New Hampshire Court Rules, certain sensitive information within divorce proceedings may be sealed or redacted, including:
- Financial affidavits and information
- Records pertaining to minor children
- Allegations of domestic violence or abuse
- Social Security numbers and other personal identifiers
- Medical and mental health information
Certified divorce certificates: Access is more restricted. These official documents verifying the divorce are available only to:
- Parties to the divorce
- Legal representatives with proper authorization
- Individuals with a demonstrable legitimate interest
- Government agencies for official purposes

The New Hampshire Division of Vital Records Administration maintains certified records of divorce and issues certificates in accordance with RSA 5-C:9, which establishes the legal framework for vital records access in the state.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Rockingham County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in Rockingham County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The appropriate approach depends on the specific record needed and the requester's relationship to the case:

For court case files:
- Visit the Rockingham County Family Division of the Circuit Court in person
- Submit a written request to the court clerk specifying the case information
- Provide proper identification and any required fees
- For cases less than 20 years old, requesters must know the case number or names of parties
Rockingham County Family Division - Brentwood
10 Route 125
Brentwood, NH 03833
(855) 212-1234
New Hampshire Circuit Court Family Division
For certified divorce certificates:
- Submit an application to the Division of Vital Records Administration
- Provide proper identification and proof of relationship or legitimate interest
- Pay the required fee ($15 for the first copy, $10 for each additional copy)
- Applications can be submitted in person, by mail, or online
NH Division of Vital Records Administration
29 Hazen Drive
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 271-4651
NH Division of Vital Records Administration
For historical divorce records (over 50 years old):
- Contact the New Hampshire State Archives
- Research may be conducted in person by appointment
- Some historical indexes may be available online
New Hampshire State Archives
71 South Fruit Street
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 271-2236
New Hampshire State Archives

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Rockingham County Online?

Rockingham County residents and other authorized individuals may access certain divorce records online through several digital platforms maintained by state agencies. The availability of records online is subject to privacy restrictions and record age limitations:

New Hampshire Judicial Branch Electronic Services:
- Access the New Hampshire e-Court Case Access Portal
- Create a user account if required
- Search by party name, case number, or attorney
- Note that only basic case information may be available; full documents often require in-person requests
- Cases filed before electronic filing implementation may not be available online
New Hampshire Division of Vital Records Administration Online Services:
- Visit the NH DVRA Online Portal
- Create an account and verify identity
- Submit a request for a certified divorce certificate
- Pay applicable fees electronically
- Access is restricted to eligible parties as defined by state law
Third-Party Subscription Services:
- Commercial services may provide index information
- These services do not provide official certified records
- Information may be incomplete or outdated
- Always verify information through official channels

Online access to divorce records is governed by the same privacy protections that apply to physical records, pursuant to New Hampshire RSA 5-C:9 and court administrative rules.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Rockingham County?

Members of the public seeking no-cost access to divorce records in Rockingham County have limited but viable options:

In-person court record inspection:
- Visit the Rockingham County Family Division during public counter hours
- Request to view publicly available case files
- While viewing is free, copying fees apply ($0.25-$1.00 per page)
- Photo identification is required
Rockingham County Family Division - Brentwood
10 Route 125
Brentwood, NH 03833
(855) 212-1234
New Hampshire Circuit Court Family Division
Public law libraries:
- The New Hampshire Law Library in Concord provides free access to legal research tools
- Some historical divorce indexes may be available for research
- Staff cannot provide legal advice but can assist with locating resources
New Hampshire Law Library
Supreme Court Building
One Charles Doe Drive
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 271-3777
New Hampshire Law Library
Historical research resources:
- The New Hampshire State Archives offers free access to historical records
- Records over 50 years old may have fewer access restrictions
- Research visits are by appointment only

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Rockingham County

Divorce records in Rockingham County comprise multiple documents that collectively document the dissolution process. The content of these records varies based on the complexity of the case and whether the divorce was contested or uncontested. Typical components include:

Petition for Divorce/Dissolution:
- Names and addresses of both parties
- Date and location of marriage
- Grounds for divorce under New Hampshire law
- Statement regarding residency requirements
- Information about minor children (if applicable)
Financial Affidavits:
- Detailed statements of income, assets, and liabilities
- Documentation of property ownership
- Retirement account information
- These documents may be sealed from public view
Parenting Plans (if children are involved):
- Custody arrangements
- Visitation schedules
- Decision-making authority
- Child support calculations
Property Settlement Agreements:
- Division of marital assets and debts
- Alimony/spousal support provisions
- Pension and retirement account allocations
Final Decree/Judgment of Divorce:
- Court's final ruling dissolving the marriage
- Approval of negotiated agreements
- Court-ordered terms for property division, support, and custody
- Name change authorizations (if applicable)
Certificate of Divorce:
- Official document certifying the divorce
- Names of parties
- Date and location of divorce finalization
- Case number for reference

These documents are maintained in accordance with New Hampshire Court Rules governing family division proceedings.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Rockingham County?

Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Rockingham County have two primary options for obtaining this documentation:

Certified Copy of Divorce Certificate:
- Submit an application to the NH Division of Vital Records Administration
- Provide proper identification (government-issued photo ID)
- Demonstrate eligibility to receive the record (party to divorce, legal representative, etc.)
- Pay the required fee ($15 for first copy, $10 for additional copies)
- Applications can be submitted in person, by mail, or online
NH Division of Vital Records Administration
29 Hazen Drive
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 271-4651
NH Division of Vital Records Administration
Certified Copy of Divorce Decree:
- Visit or contact the Rockingham County Family Division where the divorce was granted
- Provide the case number or names and approximate date of divorce
- Pay the certification fee (typically $10-$25)
- Certified copies include the court seal and are legally acceptable proof
Rockingham County Family Division - Brentwood
10 Route 125
Brentwood, NH 03833
(855) 212-1234
New Hampshire Circuit Court Family Division

For international use, divorce certificates or decrees may require additional authentication through apostille or certification processes available through the New Hampshire Secretary of State's Office.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Rockingham County?

While divorce proceedings in Rockingham County are generally matters of public record, New Hampshire law provides several mechanisms for maintaining confidentiality of sensitive information within divorce cases:

Sealed Records: Pursuant to New Hampshire Supreme Court Rule 12, certain records may be sealed from public view upon motion and judicial determination. Grounds for sealing include:
- Protection of minor children's privacy
- Prevention of harm from disclosure of sensitive information
- Protection of business trade secrets or proprietary information
- Prevention of harassment or harm to parties
Confidential Information: Certain documents are automatically treated as confidential:
- Financial affidavits
- Guardian ad litem reports
- Mental health evaluations
- Substance abuse assessments
- Domestic violence or abuse allegations
Redaction Requirements: Personal identifying information must be redacted from publicly accessible documents, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Birth dates
- Financial account numbers
- Minor children's names (initials may be used instead)
Alternative Dispute Resolution: Mediation and collaborative divorce processes offer greater privacy as negotiations occur outside the courtroom, with only the final agreement becoming part of the public record.
Domestic Violence Protections: Cases involving domestic violence may receive additional confidentiality protections under RSA 173-B, including the option for a confidential address program.

Parties seeking confidentiality must typically file specific motions with the court, and judges make determinations based on balancing privacy interests against the presumption of public access to court records.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Rockingham County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Rockingham County varies significantly based on several factors. According to the New Hampshire Judicial Branch, divorce timelines typically follow these patterns:

Uncontested Divorces:
- Minimum waiting period: 30-60 days after filing
- Typical completion time: 2-4 months
- Requirements: Complete agreement on all issues, proper documentation, and compliance with statutory waiting periods
Contested Divorces:
- Typical range: 6-12 months
- Complex cases: May extend to 18+ months
- Factors affecting duration:
  - Court calendar congestion
  - Complexity of asset division
  - Child custody disputes
  - Discovery complications
  - Expert witness requirements
Simplified Divorce Procedure:
- Available for marriages of less than 5 years with:
  - No children
  - Limited assets and debts
  - Agreement on all terms
- Typical completion: 60-90 days
Mandatory Waiting Periods:
- New Hampshire imposes no statutory waiting period before filing
- Residency requirement: One party must have been domiciled in New Hampshire for at least one year
Mediation Impact:
- Court-ordered mediation is common in Rockingham County
- Successful mediation typically reduces overall timeframe by 2-4 months
- Failed mediation may add 1-2 months to the process

According to court statistics, approximately 70% of divorces in Rockingham County are resolved within 9 months of filing, though complex cases involving substantial assets or contentious custody disputes may take significantly longer.

How Long Does Rockingham County Keep Divorce Records?

Rockingham County divorce records are subject to retention schedules established by the New Hampshire Judicial Branch and state archival requirements. The retention periods vary based on record type and historical significance:

Active Court Records:
- Case files: Maintained by the Rockingham County Family Division for a minimum of 25 years after case closure
- Judgments and decrees: Permanently retained in court databases
- Financial records: Typically retained for 7-10 years after case closure
- Guardian ad litem reports: Retained for the duration of the case plus 3 years
Archived Court Records:
- After the active retention period, records of historical or legal significance are transferred to the New Hampshire State Archives for permanent preservation
- Records deemed to have minimal historical value may be destroyed after the retention period
- Index information is maintained permanently even if physical records are destroyed
Vital Records Division:
- Divorce certificates: Permanently maintained by the NH Division of Vital Records Administration
- These records become publicly accessible after 50 years, pursuant to RSA 5-C:9
Electronic Records:
- Modern divorce filings (post-2015) are increasingly maintained in electronic format
- Electronic records are subject to the same retention schedules as paper records
- Backup systems ensure preservation of electronic court records

The New Hampshire Court System has implemented a comprehensive Records Retention Schedule that governs the maintenance and eventual disposition of all court records, including divorce proceedings.

How To Get a Divorce In Rockingham County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Rockingham County must follow specific procedures established by New Hampshire law and court rules:

Determine Eligibility:
- Residency requirement: At least one spouse must have been domiciled in New Hampshire for one year
- For military personnel, being stationed in New Hampshire for one year satisfies this requirement
- No waiting period is required before filing
Select Appropriate Grounds:
- No-fault option: Irreconcilable differences leading to irremediable breakdown
- Fault-based grounds include:
  - Impotence
  - Adultery
  - Extreme cruelty
  - Conviction of crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year
  - Habitual drunkenness
  - Abandonment
  - Joining religious sect that professes marriage relationship invalid
Prepare and File Documents:
- Petition for Divorce/Dissolution
- Personal Data Sheet
- Financial Affidavit
- Child support guidelines worksheet (if applicable)
- Proposed parenting plan (if children involved)
- Filing fee (approximately $250-$400) or fee waiver application
File at Appropriate Court:

Rockingham County Family Division - Brentwood
10 Route 125
Brentwood, NH 03833
(855) 212-1234
New Hampshire Circuit Court Family Division
Serve Documents on Spouse:
- Service must be completed by sheriff or certified mail
- Proof of service must be filed with the court
- Alternative service may be approved if spouse cannot be located
Attend Required Proceedings:
- First appearance/case manager conference
- Mediation (if children involved)
- Temporary hearings (if requested)
- Final hearing
Finalize Divorce:
- Submit proposed final decree
- Attend final hearing (if required)
- Receive certified copy of divorce decree

Additional resources and forms are available through the New Hampshire Judicial Branch Self-Help Center.

How To Get Divorce Papers In Rockingham County

Individuals initiating divorce proceedings in Rockingham County have several options for obtaining the necessary divorce forms and documentation:

New Hampshire Judicial Branch Website:
- Visit the Circuit Court Forms page
- Navigate to the Family Division section
- Download PDF forms for divorce/dissolution
- Forms available include:
  - Petition for Divorce/Legal Separation/Civil Union Dissolution
  - Financial Affidavit
  - Personal Data Sheet
  - Parenting Plan forms
  - Child Support Guidelines Worksheet
In-Person at Rockingham County Family Division:
- Visit the court clerk's office during business hours (8:30 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday-Friday)
- Request divorce packet materials
- Staff cannot provide legal advice but can answer procedural questions
Rockingham County Family Division - Brentwood
10 Route 125
Brentwood, NH 03833
(855) 212-1234
New Hampshire Circuit Court Family Division
New Hampshire Law Library:
- Access divorce form packets and legal reference materials
- Use public computers for form completion
- Receive assistance locating relevant resources
New Hampshire Law Library
Supreme Court Building
One Charles Doe Drive
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 271-3777
New Hampshire Law Library
Legal Assistance Programs:
- 603 Legal Aid provides forms and guidance for qualifying low-income individuals
- The New Hampshire Bar Association's Modest Means Program offers reduced-fee legal assistance
- Court Service Centers provide form assistance at some locations
By Mail:
- Contact the Rockingham County Family Division clerk's office
- Request specific divorce forms be mailed
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope

All official New Hampshire divorce forms are standardized statewide and accepted in any county family division court.

Lookup Divorce Records in Rockingham County

Rockingham County, NH – The Official Rockingham County, NH Website

Other Categories in New Hampshire

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