Legal Question in Family Law in Pennsylvania

How can I access a 1920 Philadelphia divorce file involving a deceased grandparent? I want to look at the file for genealogy purposes. In Philadelphia, divorce files are sealed. I filed a petition with Philadelphia Family Court. What do I do if it is denied?


Asked on 4/13/14, 12:56 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Rachel Hunter

Adoption records are sealed but why would a divorce file be sealed? All court records are public records and are open to the public. There would be no reason to seal the record if these were average people. I have heard of records being sealed for celebrities or well known people but that is done for different reasons.

If a record is truly sealed, why? You would have to file a petition in order to be able to access it..

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Answered on 4/13/14, 8:56 pm


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