Cameron County Divorce Records

What Are Cameron County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Cameron County are official legal documents that provide evidence of the dissolution of a marriage within the jurisdiction. These records are maintained pursuant to the Texas Family Code § 6.001, which establishes the grounds for divorce in the state. The District Clerk's Office of Cameron County serves as the primary custodian of divorce case files and related court documents.

Divorce records typically consist of two main components:

1. Court case files - The complete documentation of divorce proceedings filed with the Cameron County District Clerk, including petitions, responses, financial disclosures, custody arrangements, and the final divorce decree.

2. Divorce certificates - Official vital records documenting the fact of divorce, maintained by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Vital Statistics Section.

These records serve multiple important purposes, including:

• Providing legal proof of marital status change
• Enabling remarriage
• Supporting name change processes
• Verifying eligibility for Social Security benefits
• Documenting status for loan applications
• Establishing status for immigration matters
• Facilitating property transfers and estate planning

Under Texas law, divorce records are created and maintained to protect the legal rights of the parties involved while also serving the public interest in maintaining accurate vital statistics and family law documentation.

Are Cameron County Divorce Records Public?

Cameron County divorce records have varying levels of public accessibility depending on the specific document type and content. The Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code § 552) generally establishes the right of public access to government records, but this access is subject to important limitations regarding divorce proceedings.

Court divorce case files maintained by the Cameron County District Clerk are generally considered public records with the following exceptions:

• Records containing sensitive personal information such as Social Security numbers, bank account details, and certain medical information may be redacted or restricted
• Cases involving minors often have heightened privacy protections
• Records sealed by court order due to safety concerns, privacy interests, or other compelling reasons
• Documents containing information protected by attorney-client privilege

Certified divorce certificates, which are maintained by the Texas Department of State Health Services Vital Statistics Section, have more restricted access. Pursuant to Texas Health and Safety Code § 192.006, these certificates are available only to:

• The individuals named in the record (former spouses)
• Immediate family members
• Legal representatives of eligible individuals
• Individuals who can demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record

The public may access divorce indexes, which contain limited information such as names and dates, but not the complete divorce certificates or potentially sensitive court documents.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Cameron County in 2026

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

For divorce case files and court records:

1. Contact the Cameron County District Clerk's Office directly:

Cameron County District Clerk's Office
974 E. Harrison Street
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 544-0838
Cameron County District Clerk

2. Provide the following information when requesting records:

   • Full names of both parties to the divorce
   • Approximate date of divorce filing or finalization
   • Case number (if known)
   • Your relationship to the case

3. Complete the required request forms available through the Cameron County Clerk Forms portal.

4. Pay applicable fees for record searches and copies (fees vary based on document type and number of pages).

For certified divorce certificates:

1. Submit a request to the Texas Department of State Health Services Vital Statistics Section:

Texas DSHS Vital Statistics Section
P.O. Box 12040
Austin, TX 78711-2040
(888) 963-7111
Texas DSHS Vital Records

2. Provide required identification and documentation proving eligibility to access the record.

3. Pay the statutory fee for certificate issuance (currently $20 for the first copy and $3 for each additional copy).

Requesters should note that processing times vary depending on the method of request and current departmental workloads.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Cameron County Online?

Cameron County provides several digital resources for accessing divorce records online, though the level of detail available varies based on the system used and the requester's authorization status.

The primary online resources include:

1. Cameron County Public Records Portal - This system allows users to search for basic case information through the Cameron County Web Portals page. To conduct a search:

   • Select the appropriate portal for court records
   • Enter search criteria (names, case numbers, or date ranges)
   • Review the index results showing case numbers, filing dates, and party names
   • Note that full document access may require in-person follow-up

2. Texas DSHS Vital Statistics Online Ordering System - For certified divorce certificates, eligible individuals may use the Texas.gov Order Vital Records portal. This system requires:

   • Creation of a user account
   • Verification of identity
   • Submission of required information about the divorce record
   • Payment of applicable fees
   • Note that only authorized individuals may access complete certificates

3. Texas DSHS Divorce Indexes - The public may access Marriage/Divorce Indexes which provide limited information including names and dates, but not the complete divorce certificates.

When using online systems, users should be prepared to provide accurate information about the divorce case, including full legal names of both parties and approximate dates. Online access to court documents may be limited to basic case information, with full document access requiring additional steps or in-person requests.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Cameron County?

While obtaining certified copies of divorce records typically involves fees, Cameron County residents and interested parties may access certain divorce record information at no cost through several methods:

1. In-person index searches at the Cameron County District Clerk's Office:

Cameron County District Clerk's Office
974 E. Harrison Street
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 544-0838
Cameron County District Clerk

Visitors may use public access terminals to search divorce case indexes without charge. While viewing complete case files may involve fees, basic information such as case numbers, filing dates, and party names can be accessed at no cost.

2. Public access computers at Cameron County law libraries:

Cameron County Law Library
974 E. Harrison Street, 1st Floor
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 544-0871

The law library provides public access computers where visitors may search court records databases without charge during regular business hours.

3. Online divorce indexes through the Texas Department of State Health Services:

The DSHS maintains Marriage/Divorce Indexes that can be accessed online without charge. These indexes provide basic information including names and dates, though they do not contain the complete divorce records.

4. Newspaper archives at public libraries:

Brownsville Public Library
2600 Central Boulevard
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 548-1055

Local newspapers often publish legal notices related to divorce proceedings. Library archives of these publications may be searched at no cost.

It should be noted that while basic information may be accessed without charge, obtaining certified copies or complete case files will typically involve statutory fees that cannot be waived except in specific circumstances of demonstrated financial hardship.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Cameron County

Divorce records in Cameron County consist of multiple documents that collectively provide a comprehensive record of the marriage dissolution process. The content of these records is governed by the Texas Family Code § 6.406, which establishes requirements for divorce petitions and related documentation.

Court case files typically include:

1. Original Petition for Divorce - The initial filing that states:

   • Names and addresses of both parties
   • Date of marriage
   • Date of separation
   • Grounds for divorce
   • Residency information
   • Information regarding children of the marriage
   • Requested relief

2. Citation and Return of Service - Documentation showing the non-filing spouse was properly notified of the divorce action

3. Answer and/or Counter-Petition - The response from the non-filing spouse

4. Financial Information:

   • Sworn Inventory and Appraisement forms
   • Financial disclosure statements
   • Property division agreements
   • Child support calculations

5. Temporary Orders - Court directives regarding custody, support, and property during the pendency of the case

6. Final Divorce Decree - The court's final judgment containing:

   • Legal termination of the marriage
   • Division of property and debts
   • Child custody and visitation arrangements
   • Child support obligations
   • Spousal maintenance (if applicable)
   • Name change authorizations (if applicable)

7. Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) - Special orders for dividing retirement accounts

The certified divorce certificate maintained by the Texas Department of State Health Services contains more limited information:

• Full names of both parties
• Date and place of divorce
• Case number
• County of divorce
• Date of marriage

These records collectively document the legal process and outcome of the divorce proceeding, establishing the rights and obligations of the former spouses following the dissolution of their marriage.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Cameron County?

Individuals requiring legal proof of divorce in Cameron County have several options for obtaining official documentation, depending on the level of detail and certification needed.

For a certified copy of the divorce decree (the most comprehensive proof):

1. Submit a request to the Cameron County District Clerk:

Cameron County District Clerk's Office
974 E. Harrison Street
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 544-0838
Cameron County District Clerk

2. Provide the following information:

   • Full names of both parties to the divorce
   • Approximate date of divorce finalization
   • Case number (if known)
   • Valid government-issued photo identification

3. Pay the required fee (currently $1.00 per page plus a $5.00 certification fee)

For a certified divorce verification certificate:

1. Submit a request to the Texas Department of State Health Services:

Texas DSHS Vital Statistics Section
P.O. Box 12040
Austin, TX 78711-2040
(888) 963-7111
Texas DSHS Vital Records

2. Complete the application form available through the Order Vital Records portal

3. Provide proof of identity and eligibility to access the record

4. Pay the statutory fee (currently $20 for the first copy)

Expedited options include:

1. In-person requests at the District Clerk's Office, which can often be fulfilled the same day

2. In-person requests at the DSHS Vital Statistics Regional Office in Harlingen:

DSHS Vital Statistics Regional Office
601 W. Sesame Drive
Harlingen, TX 78550
(956) 423-0130

3. Third-party expedited services through approved vendors (additional fees apply)

All certified copies obtained through these official channels are legally valid for purposes including remarriage, name changes, immigration proceedings, and other legal matters requiring proof of divorce.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Cameron County?

While divorce proceedings in Cameron County are generally matters of public record, Texas law provides several mechanisms through which certain aspects of divorce cases may be kept confidential under specific circumstances.

Sealing of Records:

Pursuant to Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 76a, a court may order divorce records sealed if:

1. A specific, serious, and substantial interest clearly outweighs:

   • The presumption of openness
   • Any probable adverse effect that sealing will have upon public health or safety

2. No less restrictive means than sealing records will adequately protect the identified interest

The process requires:

• Filing a written motion with the court
• Posting public notice of the request
• Participating in a hearing where the court considers the request

Automatic Confidentiality Protections:

Certain information within divorce files receives automatic confidentiality protection without requiring a special order:

1. Social Security numbers, pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.147
2. Bank account numbers and financial identifiers
3. Medical records and health information
4. Information regarding victims of family violence
5. Certain information regarding minor children

Protective Orders:

In cases involving family violence, the court may issue protective orders that include confidentiality provisions under Texas Family Code § 85.007.

Confidential Settlement Agreements:

While the final divorce decree must be filed with the court as a public record, the parties may:

1. Enter into confidential settlement agreements regarding property division
2. Reference these agreements in the decree without incorporating their full terms
3. Maintain the detailed terms as private contracts between the parties

Individuals seeking confidentiality should consult with legal counsel early in the divorce process to implement appropriate protective measures before sensitive information enters the public record.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Cameron County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Cameron County varies significantly based on several factors, including case complexity, level of agreement between parties, and court docket congestion. Under Texas law, specifically Texas Family Code § 6.702, a divorce cannot be finalized until at least 60 days have passed since the date of filing the petition (the "cooling-off period").

Typical timeframes for different types of divorces in Cameron County include:

1. Uncontested divorces with complete agreement:

   • Minimum: 60 days (statutory waiting period)
   • Typical: 2-4 months
   • Key factors: Completeness of paperwork, court scheduling availability

2. Contested divorces resolved through negotiation/mediation:

   • Typical: 4-8 months
   • Key factors: Complexity of assets, custody issues, willingness to compromise

3. Highly contested divorces requiring trial:

   • Typical: 9-18 months
   • Key factors: Court docket congestion, discovery disputes, expert witness involvement

According to the Texas Office of Court Administration, the average disposition time for family law cases in Cameron County is approximately 7.2 months, though individual cases may vary significantly from this average.

Factors that commonly extend the timeline include:

• Complex property division requiring business valuations or forensic accounting
• Child custody evaluations and home studies
• Discovery disputes requiring court intervention
• Temporary orders hearings
• Multiple pre-trial conferences
• Continuances requested by either party
• Court calendar congestion

Conversely, factors that may expedite the process include:

• Complete agreement on all issues
• Use of collaborative divorce processes
• Effective mediation
• Minimal property and no minor children
• Efficient attorney management of the case

Parties seeking the most efficient resolution should consider alternative dispute resolution methods and thorough preparation of all required documentation.

How Long Does Cameron County Keep Divorce Records?

Cameron County maintains divorce records according to retention schedules established by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission under the authority of Texas Local Government Code § 203.041. These schedules establish minimum retention periods, though many records are maintained permanently due to their legal significance.

The retention periods for different types of divorce records are as follows:

1. Final Divorce Decrees and Judgments:

   • Retention period: Permanent
   • Storage location: Cameron County District Clerk's Office
   • Format: Original paper records and microfilm/digital backups

2. Case Files and Supporting Documentation:

   • Retention period: 25 years from date of final judgment
   • After 25 years: Records may be transferred to microfilm/digital format
   • Note: Cases involving minor children may be retained longer

3. Divorce Certificates (Vital Records):

   • Retention period: Permanent
   • Maintained by: Texas Department of State Health Services Vital Statistics Section
   • Format: Original records and electronic database

4. Indexes and Docket Books:

   • Retention period: Permanent
   • Purpose: To facilitate location of case files
   • Format: Both physical and electronic formats

5. Exhibits and Evidence:

   • Retention period: 30 days after case disposition becomes final
   • Exception: May be returned to parties or retained longer by court order

6. Audio/Video Recordings of Proceedings:

   • Retention period: 3 years from date of final judgment
   • Exception: Cases appealed to higher courts retained until appeal resolved

It should be noted that while minimum retention periods exist, Cameron County has historically maintained most divorce records indefinitely due to their potential long-term legal significance for property rights, inheritance matters, and family history. Even after physical records may be purged according to retention schedules, basic information typically remains available through permanent indexes and databases.

How To Get a Divorce In Cameron County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Cameron County must follow specific procedures established under the Texas Family Code § 6.301. The process involves several key steps:

1. Establish Residency Requirements:

   • Either spouse must have been a Texas resident for at least six months
   • Either spouse must have been a Cameron County resident for at least 90 days

2. Prepare and File the Original Petition for Divorce:

   • Complete the appropriate petition form (available through the Cameron County Clerk Forms portal)
   • File the petition with the District Clerk's Office:

Cameron County District Clerk's Office
974 E. Harrison Street
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 544-0838
Cameron County District Clerk

• Pay the filing fee (currently approximately $300, with fee waivers available for indigent parties)

3. Serve the Non-Filing Spouse:

   • Formal service through a process server or sheriff
   • Waiver of service signed by the respondent
   • Alternative service methods if ordered by the court

4. Wait for the Response Period:

   • The non-filing spouse has approximately 20 days to file an answer
   • If no response is filed, the case may proceed as uncontested

5. Exchange Financial Information:

   • Complete inventory and appraisement forms
   • Provide documentation of assets, debts, income, and expenses
   • File child support worksheets if applicable

6. Negotiate Settlement or Prepare for Trial:

   • Mediation (often court-ordered in contested cases)
   • Informal settlement conferences
   • Formal discovery if necessary

7. Attend Final Hearing:

   • Present the divorce decree for the judge's approval
   • Testify briefly regarding statutory requirements
   • Address any contested issues if not previously resolved

8. File the Final Decree:

   • Submit the signed decree to the District Clerk
   • Obtain certified copies for personal records

Throughout this process, parties may represent themselves (pro se) or retain legal counsel. The Cameron County Law Library provides self-help resources for those proceeding without attorneys:

Cameron County Law Library
974 E. Harrison Street, 1st Floor
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 544-0871

The minimum time from filing to finalization is 60 days due to the statutory waiting period, though contested cases typically require significantly more time.

How To Get Divorce Papers In Cameron County

Individuals seeking divorce papers in Cameron County have several options for obtaining the necessary forms to initiate or respond to divorce proceedings. The availability of forms depends on the complexity of the case and whether the individual has legal representation.

For self-represented litigants:

1. Cameron County District Clerk's Office:

Cameron County District Clerk's Office
974 E. Harrison Street
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 544-0838
Cameron County District Clerk

The District Clerk provides basic divorce petition forms and instructions for uncontested cases. These forms are available in both English and Spanish.

2. Cameron County Law Library:

Cameron County Law Library
974 E. Harrison Street, 1st Floor
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 544-0871

The law library maintains reference copies of form books and provides access to legal research materials. Staff cannot provide legal advice but can direct visitors to appropriate resources.

3. Online Resources:

• Cameron County Clerk Forms - Official county forms portal
• Texas Law Help - Free forms and instructions for uncontested divorces
• Texas Access to Justice Foundation - Resources for low-income litigants

4. Self-Help Centers:

Cameron County Self-Help Legal Center
974 E. Harrison Street, 1st Floor
Brownsville, TX 78520
(956) 544-0871

This center provides assistance with form completion during designated hours, though staff cannot provide legal advice.

For cases requiring specialized forms:

1. Legal Aid Organizations:

Texas RioGrande Legal Aid
308 East Harrison Street
Harlingen, TX 78550
(956) 364-3800

Provides free legal assistance, including divorce form preparation, for qualifying low-income individuals.

2. Private Attorneys:

The Cameron County Bar Association maintains a referral service for individuals seeking legal representation.

Required forms typically include:

• Original Petition for Divorce
• Citation or Waiver of Service
• Answer and/or Counter-Petition
• Financial Information Statement
• Final Decree of Divorce
• Child support and custody documents (if applicable)

Individuals should select forms appropriate to their specific circumstances, particularly regarding children, property, and any family violence issues. Incorrect or incomplete paperwork may result in delays or dismissal of the case.

Lookup Divorce Records in Cameron County

Sylvia Garza-Perez, County Clerk - Cameron County

Laura Perez-Reyes, District Clerk - Cameron County

Cameron County Web Portals

Cameron County Clerk Forms

Marriage and Divorce Records | Texas DSHS

Order Vital Records | DSHS Official Application | Texas.gov

Marriage/Divorce Indexes | Texas DSHS