Legal Question in Family Law in New York

1912 Divorce Decree

Hello,

I am interested in obtaining a copy of a Divorce Decree that was issued in New York City in 1912. As I understand it, since this record is not yet 100 years old, it does not qualify as a ''public record'', and a court order is required to obtain it. I would be using the Decree strictly for genealogical purposes, and both parties in the action have long since passed on. Could you tell me: IS THERE ANY WAY AROUND THE 100 YEAR REQUIREMENT WITHOUT A COURT ORDER? IF NOT, HOW DIFFICULT IS IT TO OBTAIN A COURT ORDER--name removed--I do not live in New York). Many thanks! I sincerely appreciate your help!


Asked on 7/21/08, 2:32 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Markowitz Michael A. Markowitz, PC

Re: 1912 Divorce Decree

If the parties to the divorce have died, and there is a legitimate purpose to obtain the Court documents (assuming the documents exist), I would think that it is not hard to release the records.

Mike.

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Answered on 7/21/08, 8:07 am


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