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Kankakee County Divorce Records

What Are Kankakee County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Kankakee County are official legal documents that provide documentation of the dissolution of marriage between two individuals. These records are maintained pursuant to 750 ILCS 5/, the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act, which governs divorce proceedings throughout the state. Divorce records typically consist of various court documents filed during divorce proceedings in the Kankakee County Circuit Court.

Divorce records serve multiple important purposes:

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

The Kankakee County Circuit Clerk maintains the official court records related to divorce proceedings, while the Illinois Department of Public Health maintains statistical data on divorces granted within the county. These records form part of the vital records system that documents major life events of county residents.

Are Kankakee County Divorce Records Public?

Kankakee County divorce records have a complex public access status that varies depending on the specific document type and information contained therein. Generally, court divorce case files are considered public records under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, but with significant exceptions and limitations.

The public accessibility of divorce records is governed by several factors:

  • Court files: Basic divorce decree information is generally available to the public through the Kankakee County Circuit Clerk's office. However, pursuant to 705 ILCS 105/16(6), certain sensitive information may be redacted or restricted.

  • Confidential information: Documents containing Social Security numbers, financial account information, and children's identifying information are protected from public disclosure.

  • Sealed records: In cases involving domestic violence, child abuse, or other sensitive matters, a judge may order records sealed from public view.

  • Certified divorce certificates: These documents have restricted access and are typically only available to the parties involved in the divorce, their legal representatives, or individuals with a direct interest who can demonstrate a need for the record.

Individuals seeking access to divorce records must comply with the Kankakee County FOIA request procedures when applicable, or follow the specific protocols established by the Circuit Clerk for court record access.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Kankakee County in 2026

Individuals seeking divorce records in Kankakee County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The process varies depending on the type of record needed and its intended use.

For court case records related to divorce proceedings:

  1. Visit the Kankakee County Circuit Clerk's office in person:

Kankakee County Circuit Clerk
450 E. Court Street, 3rd Floor
Kankakee, IL 60901
(815) 936-5700
Kankakee County Circuit Clerk

  1. Provide the following information:

    • Full names of both parties involved in the divorce
    • Approximate date of divorce filing or finalization
    • Case number (if known)
    • Valid photo identification

  2. Complete any required request forms provided by the clerk's office.

  3. Pay applicable fees for record searches and copies. Fees typically range from $5-15 for searches and $1-2 per page for copies, with certified copies costing approximately $15 each.

For dissolution of marriage certificates:

  1. Contact the Illinois Department of Public Health Division of Vital Records.

  2. Submit a written request including:

    • Names of both parties
    • Date of divorce
    • County where divorce was granted
    • Reason for requesting the record
    • Copy of valid photo identification

  3. Pay the required fee (approximately $5 for a verification letter).

Researchers may also utilize third-party services that provide access to public records databases, though these services typically charge additional fees and may not provide certified copies acceptable for legal purposes.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Kankakee County Online?

Kankakee County offers limited online access to divorce records through several digital platforms. These online resources provide convenience but may not offer complete record access compared to in-person requests.

The primary online resources for divorce record searches include:

  1. Kankakee County Circuit Clerk's Case Access System:

    • Navigate to the Kankakee County Circuit Clerk website
    • Select the "Court Records Search" option
    • Create a user account if required
    • Search using party names, case numbers, or filing dates
    • Note that only basic case information may be viewable; full documents often require in-person requests

  2. Illinois Department of Public Health Vital Records:

    • Visit the IDPH Dissolution of Marriage Records page
    • Follow the instructions for requesting verification letters
    • Complete the required forms and submit payment electronically
    • Note that only verification of divorce (not copies of decrees) is available through this method

  3. Third-party record search services:

    • Several commercial websites aggregate public records
    • These services typically require subscription fees
    • Information may not be current or complete
    • Results cannot be used as certified copies for legal purposes

When using online search methods, users should be aware of the following limitations:

  • Recent records may not be immediately available in online systems
  • Confidential or sealed cases will not appear in public searches
  • Document images are rarely available online
  • Certified copies cannot typically be obtained through online platforms

For comprehensive divorce record searches or certified copies, in-person requests remain the most reliable method.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Kankakee County?

Members of the public seeking no-cost access to divorce records in Kankakee County have several options available, though these methods may have limitations regarding the depth of information accessible without payment.

Free access options include:

  1. In-person review at the Kankakee County Circuit Clerk's office:

Kankakee County Circuit Clerk
450 E. Court Street, 3rd Floor
Kankakee, IL 60901
(815) 936-5700
Kankakee County Circuit Clerk

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Individuals may visit during regular business hours to view public divorce case files. While viewing is free, copying documents incurs standard fees ($1-2 per page).

  1. Public access terminals at the Kankakee County Law Library:

Kankakee County Law Library
450 E. Court Street, 4th Floor
Kankakee, IL 60901
(815) 937-2950

The law library provides public computer terminals for searching court records. Staff cannot provide legal advice but can assist with basic search functionality.

  1. Kankakee Public Library resources:

Kankakee Public Library
201 E. Merchant Street
Kankakee, IL 60901
(815) 939-4564
Kankakee Public Library

The library maintains some historical records and may provide access to genealogical databases that include divorce information for older cases.

  1. Online case information search:
    • Basic case information may be viewable through the Circuit Clerk's online portal
    • Limited to case numbers, party names, and general status information
    • Document contents are not typically available without fees

When utilizing free access methods, researchers should note:

  • Records may be redacted to protect confidential information
  • Staff assistance for extensive searches may be limited
  • Certified copies always require payment of statutory fees
  • Recent records may require formal requests even for viewing

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Kankakee County

Divorce records in Kankakee County typically contain multiple documents that collectively provide a comprehensive record of the marriage dissolution process. The specific contents vary based on the complexity of the case and whether children were involved.

Standard components of Kankakee County divorce records include:

  1. Petition for Dissolution of Marriage:

    • Names and addresses of both parties
    • Date and location of marriage
    • Grounds for divorce (Illinois now uses "irreconcilable differences" as the standard ground)
    • Statement regarding residency requirements
    • Information about minor children (if applicable)
    • Requested relief (property division, support, etc.)

  2. Summons and proof of service:

    • Documentation showing the respondent was properly notified of the proceedings

  3. Financial affidavits:

    • Detailed statements of income, expenses, assets, and liabilities from both parties
    • Supporting documentation such as tax returns and pay stubs

  4. Marital Settlement Agreement:

    • Division of marital property and debts
    • Spousal maintenance provisions (if applicable)
    • Tax considerations

  5. Parenting Plan (for cases involving minor children):

    • Allocation of parental responsibilities (formerly called custody)
    • Parenting time schedules
    • Decision-making authority
    • Child support calculations

  6. Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage:

    • Final court order terminating the marriage
    • Incorporation of settlement agreements
    • Judge's signature and date of dissolution

  7. Certificate of Dissolution:

  8. Post-decree motions and orders (if applicable):

    • Modifications to the original judgment
    • Enforcement proceedings
    • Appeals documentation

These documents are maintained in accordance with 705 ILCS 105/27.3, which governs court record keeping requirements in Illinois.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Kankakee County?

Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Kankakee County have several options for obtaining documentation that verifies the dissolution of marriage. The appropriate method depends on the level of detail needed and the purpose for which the proof will be used.

For certified copies of divorce decrees:

  1. Visit the Kankakee County Circuit Clerk's office in person:

Kankakee County Circuit Clerk
450 E. Court Street, 3rd Floor
Kankakee, IL 60901
(815) 936-5700
Kankakee County Circuit Clerk

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

  1. Submit a written request including:

    • Full names of both parties as they appear on the divorce decree
    • Date of divorce (approximate if exact date unknown)
    • Case number (if known)
    • Number of certified copies requested
    • Purpose for which the copies are needed
    • Contact information for follow-up

  2. Provide valid photo identification.

  3. Pay the required fee (approximately $15 per certified copy).

For divorce verification letters:

  1. Contact the Illinois Department of Public Health Division of Vital Records:

Illinois Department of Public Health
Division of Vital Records
925 E. Ridgely Avenue
Springfield, IL 62702
(217) 782-6553
IDPH Vital Records

  1. Complete the Application for Verification of Dissolution of Marriage.

  2. Include a copy of valid photo identification.

  3. Submit the $5 fee per verification letter.

For apostille certification (international use):

  1. First obtain a certified copy from the Circuit Clerk.

  2. Submit the certified copy to the Illinois Secretary of State for apostille:

Illinois Secretary of State
Index Department
111 E. Monroe Street
Springfield, IL 62756
(217) 782-7017
Illinois Secretary of State

Proof of divorce documents are typically processed within 1-3 business days for in-person requests and 2-4 weeks for mail requests. Expedited services may be available for additional fees in urgent situations.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Kankakee County?

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

Confidentiality provisions in divorce proceedings include:

  1. Sealing of Records:

    • Pursuant to Illinois Supreme Court Rule 138, parties may petition the court to seal all or portions of divorce records
    • The court applies a balancing test weighing privacy interests against the presumption of public access
    • Complete sealing of records is rare and requires demonstration of compelling reasons

  2. Redaction of Personal Information:

    • Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and children's identifying information are automatically protected from public disclosure
    • Documents containing such information must be filed in redacted form or with a confidential information form

  3. Confidential Financial Affidavits:

    • Detailed financial disclosures required in divorce proceedings may be filed under restricted access
    • Only parties, their attorneys, and court personnel have access to these documents

  4. Protective Orders:

    • In cases involving domestic violence, stalking, or harassment, the court may issue protective orders that include confidentiality provisions
    • Information that could compromise a party's safety may be restricted from public access

  5. Alternative Dispute Resolution:

    • Mediation sessions and collaborative divorce proceedings are confidential by nature
    • Settlement negotiations conducted through these processes remain private, though final agreements incorporated into divorce decrees become public

To request confidentiality for divorce proceedings, parties must:

  1. File a motion with the Kankakee County Circuit Court specifically identifying which documents should be sealed and why
  2. Demonstrate good cause for restricting public access
  3. Obtain a court order explicitly granting confidentiality

The Kankakee County Circuit Clerk implements confidentiality orders as directed by the court, maintaining appropriate security measures for protected information.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Kankakee County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Kankakee County varies significantly based on multiple factors, including case complexity, cooperation between parties, court caseload, and the specific issues requiring resolution.

Timeframe factors include:

  1. Type of Divorce:

    • Uncontested divorces with complete agreements: 2-4 months
    • Contested divorces requiring litigation: 6-18 months
    • Complex high-asset or high-conflict cases: 1-3 years

  2. Statutory Waiting Periods:

    • Illinois has eliminated its previous waiting period for no-fault divorces
    • Parties must meet the 90-day residency requirement before filing
    • A 6-month separation period is presumptive proof of irreconcilable differences, though parties can waive this by mutual agreement

  3. Procedural Timelines:

    • Service of process: 7-30 days
    • Response period for respondent: 30 days
    • Discovery phase: 3-6 months in contested cases
    • Pretrial conferences: Typically scheduled 4-6 months after filing
    • Trial scheduling: May add 3-6 months depending on court calendar

  4. Additional Factors Affecting Duration:

    • Court congestion in the 21st Judicial Circuit
    • Availability of judges for hearings and trials
    • Complexity of asset division or business valuation
    • Child-related disputes requiring guardian ad litem investigations
    • Need for expert witnesses or forensic accountants

According to the Illinois Supreme Court statistical reports, the average time from filing to disposition for contested divorce cases in Kankakee County is approximately 10 months, though this varies significantly based on case specifics.

Expedited processes are available for:

  • Joint simplified dissolution (for couples meeting specific criteria)
  • Uncontested divorces with complete written agreements
  • Cases involving domestic violence where emergency orders are needed

Parties seeking to minimize divorce timeframes are encouraged to utilize alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or collaborative divorce, which can significantly reduce processing time while often producing more satisfactory outcomes.

How Long Does Kankakee County Keep Divorce Records?

Kankakee County maintains divorce records in accordance with the Illinois Supreme Court's Record Retention Schedule and applicable state statutes governing court records. These retention periods vary based on the type of document and its historical or legal significance.

The standard retention periods for divorce records in Kankakee County are:

  1. Case Files and Court Orders:

    • Judgments for Dissolution of Marriage: Permanent retention
    • Supporting documentation (petitions, financial affidavits, etc.): Minimum of 75 years
    • Post-decree modifications: Retained with the original case file

  2. Docket Books and Case Indexes:

    • Permanent retention as required by 705 ILCS 105/27
    • These records provide the finding aids for locating specific case files

  3. Certificates of Dissolution:

    • Original certificates: Forwarded to the Illinois Department of Public Health
    • IDPH maintains these records permanently for statistical and verification purposes

  4. Electronic Records:

    • Case Management System data: Permanent retention
    • Digitized document images: Retention periods match physical document requirements
    • Audio recordings of proceedings: Minimum of 2 years after final disposition

  5. Exhibits and Evidence:

    • Retained until 30 days after the final order is entered
    • May be returned to the submitting party upon request
    • Unclaimed exhibits may be destroyed after the retention period

The Kankakee County Circuit Clerk implements a records management program that includes:

  • Conversion of older paper records to digital format for preservation
  • Climate-controlled storage for permanent paper records
  • Secure destruction methods for records that have met retention requirements
  • Disaster recovery protocols to protect essential court records

Researchers seeking historical divorce records should note that older records may be stored off-site or in archival facilities, potentially requiring additional time for retrieval. Records from the early 20th century and earlier may have been transferred to the Illinois State Archives for permanent preservation.

How To Get a Divorce In Kankakee County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Kankakee County must follow specific procedures established by Illinois law and local court rules. The process involves multiple steps and varies depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested.

The general procedure for obtaining a divorce in Kankakee County includes:

  1. Meet Residency Requirements:

    • Either spouse must have been an Illinois resident for at least 90 days
    • The case may be filed in Kankakee County if either spouse resides there

  2. Prepare and File Initial Documents:

    • Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
    • Summons
    • Certificate of Dissolution of Marriage (statistical form)
    • Financial Affidavit (if financial issues are involved)
    • Parenting Plan (if children are involved)

    These forms are available through the Illinois Supreme Court Standardized Forms website.

  3. File documents with the Circuit Clerk:

Kankakee County Circuit Clerk
450 E. Court Street, 3rd Floor
Kankakee, IL 60901
(815) 936-5700
Kankakee County Circuit Clerk

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

  1. Pay Filing Fees:

    • Current filing fee: Approximately $337 (subject to change)
    • Fee waiver applications available for qualifying low-income individuals

  2. Serve the Respondent:

    • Through Sheriff's service (additional fee applies)
    • By private process server
    • By publication if the respondent cannot be located
    • Waived if respondent signs an Entry of Appearance

  3. Respondent's Options:

    • File a written response within 30 days
    • Sign a Marital Settlement Agreement if in agreement
    • Default judgment may be entered if no response is filed

  4. Discovery Process (if contested):

    • Exchange of financial information
    • Depositions and interrogatories as needed
    • May include temporary hearings for support or parenting time

  5. Pre-trial Conference:

    • Required in contested cases
    • Judge attempts to narrow issues and encourage settlement

  6. Trial (if necessary):

    • Presentation of evidence and testimony
    • Judge makes final determinations on contested issues

  7. Judgment Entry:

    • Judge signs the Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage
    • Incorporates any agreements between parties
    • Becomes final on the date signed

Alternative resolution options include:

  • Mediation (required for parenting disputes)
  • Collaborative divorce process
  • Settlement conferences

Legal assistance resources:

  • Prairie State Legal Services (for qualifying low-income individuals)
  • Kankakee County Bar Association referral service
  • Self-Help Legal Center at the courthouse

How To Get Divorce Papers In Kankakee County

Individuals initiating or responding to divorce proceedings in Kankakee County have several options for obtaining the necessary legal forms and documents. These resources ensure access to standardized, court-approved paperwork required throughout the divorce process.

Primary sources for divorce papers include:

  1. Illinois Supreme Court Standardized Forms:

    • Visit the Illinois Supreme Court's approved forms website
    • Download fillable PDF forms for:
      • Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (with and without children versions)
      • Summons
      • Financial Affidavit
      • Parenting Plan
      • Marital Settlement Agreement
      • Judgment for Dissolution of Marriage
    • These forms are mandatory and must be accepted by all Illinois courts

  2. Kankakee County Circuit Clerk's Office:

Kankakee County Circuit Clerk
450 E. Court Street, 3rd Floor
Kankakee, IL 60901
(815) 936-5700
Kankakee County Circuit Clerk

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

  • Paper copies of required forms available for a nominal fee
  • Staff can identify which forms are needed but cannot provide legal advice
  • Public access computers may be available for downloading and printing forms
  1. Kankakee County Law Library:

Kankakee County Law Library
450 E. Court Street, 4th Floor
Kankakee, IL 60901
(815) 937-2950

  • Reference materials on divorce procedures
  • Form books with sample documents
  • Computer access for online form retrieval

  1. Illinois Legal Aid Online:

    • Interactive form preparation system
    • Step-by-step guidance for completing divorce paperwork
    • Available at Illinois Legal Aid Online

  2. Self-Help Legal Center:

    • Located within the Kankakee County Courthouse
    • Provides guidance on form completion
    • Offers informational materials about court procedures

When obtaining divorce papers, individuals should:

  • Verify they have the most current version of all forms
  • Determine which forms are required for their specific situation
  • Consider whether children, property, or maintenance issues require specialized forms
  • Prepare multiple copies for filing, service, and personal records

While forms are readily available, completing them correctly is crucial. Individuals with complex cases may benefit from consulting with an attorney, even if only for document review. The Kankakee County Bar Association can provide referrals to attorneys who offer limited-scope representation for document preparation.

Lookup Divorce Records in Kankakee County

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