Bossier Parish Public Records /Bossier Parish Divorce Records

Bossier County Divorce Records

What Are Bossier County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Bossier Parish are official legal documents that provide documentation of the dissolution of marriage between two individuals. These records are maintained by the Bossier Parish Clerk of Court and constitute part of the public record system in Louisiana. Pursuant to Louisiana Civil Code § 103, divorce proceedings are governed by state statutes that establish the legal framework for marriage dissolution.

Divorce records typically include:

Petition for divorce
Summons and service documentation
Responses from the respondent spouse
Temporary orders issued during proceedings
Final judgment of divorce
Property settlement agreements
Child custody and support arrangements
Spousal support determinations

These records serve multiple important functions for individuals and society, including:

Providing legal proof of marital status change
Enabling individuals to legally remarry
Supporting name change processes
Documenting eligibility for Social Security benefits
Verifying status for loan applications
Establishing legal status for immigration matters
Creating historical documentation for genealogical research

The Louisiana Department of Health maintains statistical information about divorces that occur within the state, while the actual court records remain with the parish where the divorce was granted.

Are Bossier County Divorce Records Public?

Divorce records in Bossier Parish have a complex public access status that varies by record type and content. Under the Louisiana Public Records Law § 44:1, most court records, including divorce proceedings, are presumptively open to public inspection. However, this general rule is subject to numerous statutory exceptions and judicial limitations.

Court divorce case files are generally accessible to the public with the following exceptions:

Records containing sensitive personal information such as Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and minor children's information may be redacted or sealed
Cases involving domestic violence may have protective orders sealing certain documents
Records containing information about minors are often restricted
Documents containing sensitive health information may be sealed by judicial order
Financial affidavits and detailed property settlements may be restricted

Certified divorce certificates, which verify the fact of divorce, date, and location, have more restricted access. According to Louisiana law, these documents are available only to:

The parties to the divorce
Their authorized representatives with proper documentation
Individuals with a demonstrable legal interest
Attorneys representing either party with proper authorization

The Bossier Parish Police Jury maintains information about public records access policies, while specific divorce record requests must be directed to the Clerk of Court. Members of the public seeking divorce records should be prepared to provide identification and, in some cases, documentation of their relationship to the parties or legitimate interest in the records.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Bossier County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in Bossier Parish may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The primary custodian of divorce records is the Bossier Parish Clerk of Court. Individuals may obtain these records through the following procedures:

In-Person Requests:

Visit the Bossier Parish Clerk of Court office during regular business hours
Complete a records request form, providing names of both parties and approximate date of divorce
Present valid government-issued photo identification
Pay applicable search and copy fees (fees vary based on number of pages and certification requirements)
Wait for staff to retrieve records (same-day service may be available for simple requests)

By Mail:

Download and complete the records request form from the Clerk of Court website
Include a copy of valid government-issued photo identification
Provide a self-addressed stamped envelope
Include a check or money order for applicable fees
Mail the complete package to the Bossier Parish Clerk of Court

By Authorized Representative:

Provide a notarized authorization letter from one of the parties
Present personal identification plus the authorization
Complete standard request procedures as outlined above

Bossier Parish Clerk of Court
204 Burt Boulevard
Benton, LA 71006
(318) 965-2336
Bossier Parish Clerk of Court

For divorce records from 1900-present, requestors should contact the Clerk of Court directly. For statistical information about divorces in Louisiana, the Louisiana Department of Health's Center for Vital Records and Statistics maintains aggregate data, though not individual divorce certificates.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Bossier County Online?

Bossier Parish provides limited online access to divorce records through the Clerk of Court's electronic case management system. The online search capabilities allow members of the public to verify the existence of divorce cases and obtain basic case information. To access divorce records online, individuals may follow these steps:

Visit the Bossier Parish Clerk of Court website
Navigate to the "Court Records" or "Case Search" section
Register for an account if required (some basic searches may be available without registration)
Select "Civil Cases" or "Family Court" as the case type
Enter search criteria such as:
- Party names (last name, first name)
- Case number (if known)
- Date range of filing
Review search results showing basic case information
Pay any applicable fees for viewing detailed documents

Important limitations of the online system include:

Not all documents within a case file may be available electronically
Older records (typically pre-2000) may not be digitized
Sealed or confidential documents will not be accessible
Complete case files often require in-person inspection
Certified copies cannot be obtained through the online system

For comprehensive divorce record searches, particularly for cases before the digital era, the Louisiana State Archives may provide additional resources for historical divorce records. Researchers should note that pursuant to Louisiana Revised Statute § 44:32, custodians of public records must make records available during regular office hours.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Bossier County?

Members of the public seeking no-cost access to divorce records in Bossier Parish have limited but viable options. While obtaining copies typically involves fees, examining records may be possible without charge through the following methods:

In-Person Inspection: Pursuant to Louisiana Public Records Law § 44:32, individuals have the right to inspect public records at no charge during regular business hours. To exercise this right:

Visit the Bossier Parish Clerk of Court office
Complete a records request form specifying inspection only (not copies)
Present valid identification
Wait for staff to retrieve the requested records
Review materials in designated public viewing area

Public Law Library Access: The Bossier Parish Law Library provides public access to certain court records:

Visit the law library located within the courthouse
Request assistance from library staff to access divorce case indexes
Use public access terminals if available
Note that while inspection is free, printing or copying will incur fees

Online Basic Case Information: Basic case information may be available without charge through:

The Bossier Parish Clerk of Court website's public case index
Limited to confirming case existence, parties, filing date, and case status
Detailed documents typically require payment

Public Library Resources: Local public libraries may offer:

Free access to public computers for online searches
Microfilm archives of local newspapers with divorce announcements
Access to genealogical databases that may contain divorce information

While inspection may be free, standard fees apply for copies, certified documents, and extensive searches. The Clerk of Court charges for copies (typically $1-2 per page) and certification fees (approximately $5-15 per document). Researchers should verify current fee schedules before requesting services.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Bossier County

Divorce records in Bossier Parish comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the legal dissolution of marriage. These records are maintained by the Bossier Parish Clerk of Court and typically contain the following components:

Petition for Dissolution of Marriage:

Filing date and case number
Names and addresses of both parties
Date and location of marriage
Grounds for divorce (Louisiana recognizes both fault and no-fault grounds)
Statement regarding jurisdiction
Initial requests regarding property, support, and custody

Summons and Service Documentation:

Proof that the respondent was properly notified of the proceedings
Return of service documentation
Waiver of service if applicable

Responsive Pleadings:

Answer from the respondent spouse
Counter-petitions if filed
Motions filed by either party

Temporary Orders:

Interim child custody arrangements
Temporary child support calculations
Temporary spousal support determinations
Temporary use of marital property
Restraining orders if applicable

Financial Disclosures:

Sworn financial statements from both parties
Income verification documents
Asset and liability listings
Tax returns (often referenced but may be sealed)

Settlement Documents:

Property settlement agreements
Debt allocation agreements
Pension and retirement account division details
Business valuation and division information

Child-Related Documents:

Permanent custody determinations
Visitation/parenting time schedules
Child support calculations and orders
Provisions for children's healthcare, education, and special needs

Final Judgment:

Final decree of divorce signed by the judge
Effective date of marriage dissolution
Court's final rulings on all contested matters
Incorporation of settlement agreements
Name restoration orders if applicable

Post-Judgment Filings:

Motions to modify custody, support, or other provisions
Enforcement actions
Appeals documentation if applicable

The level of detail in divorce records varies significantly based on whether the divorce was contested or uncontested, the complexity of marital assets, and whether minor children were involved. Pursuant to Louisiana Civil Code § 102 and § 103, divorces may be granted on either fault or no-fault grounds, which affects the nature and extent of documentation in the record.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Bossier County?

Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Bossier Parish may obtain this documentation through established procedures with the Clerk of Court. Official proof of divorce is often necessary for remarriage, name changes, loan applications, and various legal matters. The following methods are available for securing this documentation:

Certified Copy of Divorce Decree:

Visit or contact the Bossier Parish Clerk of Court office
Complete a records request form specifying the need for a certified copy
Provide the names of both parties and approximate date of divorce
Present valid government-issued photo identification
Pay the certification fee (approximately $5-15 per document plus copy fees)
Receive the certified copy with the Clerk's official seal

Certificate of Divorce (Abstract): For those needing only basic verification rather than the complete decree:

Request a Certificate of Divorce or divorce abstract
Provide essential information including names and date of divorce
Pay the applicable fee (typically lower than full decree certification)
Receive the official certificate verifying the divorce occurred

By Mail Request:

Download the records request form from the Bossier Parish Clerk of Court website
Complete the form specifying certification needs
Include a photocopy of valid identification
Enclose a check or money order for applicable fees
Provide a self-addressed stamped envelope
Mail to the Clerk's office

Through Authorized Representative:

Provide the representative with a notarized authorization letter
Include specific permission to obtain certified copies
Representative must present their own identification plus authorization
Standard fees apply

Bossier Parish Clerk of Court
204 Burt Boulevard
Benton, LA 71006
(318) 965-2336
Bossier Parish Clerk of Court

For divorces granted in other Louisiana parishes, requestors should contact the Clerk of Court in the parish where the divorce was finalized. The Louisiana Department of Health maintains statistical information about divorces but does not issue divorce certificates.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Bossier County?

While divorce proceedings in Bossier Parish are generally matters of public record, Louisiana law provides several mechanisms through which certain aspects of divorce cases may be kept confidential. The confidentiality of divorce records is governed by both statutory provisions and judicial discretion.

Sealing Complete Case Files: Under limited circumstances, a judge may order an entire divorce case file sealed from public view. This typically requires:

Filing a motion demonstrating compelling reasons for confidentiality
Showing that privacy interests substantially outweigh the public's right to access
Proving potential harm from disclosure outweighs public interest
Judicial determination that no less restrictive alternatives exist

Partial Confidentiality Measures: More commonly, specific documents or information within divorce files may be protected:

Financial records and affidavits may be filed under seal pursuant to Louisiana Code of Civil Procedure § 1426
Records containing children's personal information receive heightened protection
Medical and mental health evaluations are typically confidential
Domestic abuse allegations may warrant protective orders sealing sensitive information
Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and similar identifiers are redacted

Confidential Settlements: Parties may agree to confidential settlement terms, though:

The fact that a divorce occurred remains public record
The final judgment must be filed publicly
Settlement agreements may be referenced but not detailed in public documents
Private settlement terms may be filed under seal with court approval

Protective Orders: In cases involving domestic violence, the court may issue protective orders that:

Seal allegations of abuse from public view
Restrict access to victim location information
Protect identity information of protected parties
Shield sensitive testimony from public disclosure

Pseudonym Usage: In exceptional cases involving safety concerns, the court may permit:

Filing under pseudonyms (e.g., "John Doe v. Jane Doe")
Redaction of identifying information throughout the record
Restricted access to unredacted versions

Individuals seeking confidentiality in divorce proceedings should consult with legal counsel early in the process, as retroactive sealing of already-public records is significantly more difficult to obtain. The Western District of Louisiana federal courts maintain similar confidentiality provisions for federal cases involving family matters.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Bossier County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Bossier Parish varies significantly based on multiple factors related to case complexity, cooperation between parties, and statutory waiting periods. Under current Louisiana law, the timeline for divorce completion is influenced by the following factors:

Statutory Waiting Periods:

For no-fault divorces under Louisiana Civil Code § 103.1, parties must live separate and apart for:
- 180 days (6 months) if no minor children are involved
- 365 days (12 months) if minor children are involved
The petition can be filed immediately upon separation, but the divorce cannot be finalized until the separation period concludes

Uncontested Divorces: When parties agree on all issues, the process typically takes:

6-8 months total for couples without children (including waiting period)
12-14 months total for couples with children (including waiting period)
Additional 30-60 days for administrative processing after eligibility

Contested Divorces: When disputes exist regarding property, support, or custody:

12-18 months is typical for moderately contested cases
18-36 months for highly contested matters with multiple issues
Complex asset division or custody evaluations can extend timeframes further

Fault-Based Divorces: When filed under Louisiana Civil Code § 103 for adultery or felony conviction:

No mandatory waiting period applies
Typically 3-9 months if uncontested
12-24 months if contested and requiring evidence presentation

Procedural Factors Affecting Timeline:

Court congestion in the 26th Judicial District Court
Attorney and party scheduling conflicts
Complexity of discovery process
Need for expert witnesses (business valuators, custody evaluators)
Mediation attempts and settlement negotiations
Judicial availability for hearings

According to statistics from the Louisiana Supreme Court, the average time from filing to disposition for divorce cases in Bossier Parish is approximately 10 months, though this average encompasses both simple and complex cases. Individuals seeking divorce should consult with legal counsel for case-specific timeline estimates based on their particular circumstances.

How Long Does Bossier County Keep Divorce Records?

Bossier Parish maintains divorce records according to Louisiana's comprehensive records retention schedule, which establishes different preservation periods based on record type and historical significance. The retention of these records is governed by Louisiana Revised Statute § 44:36 and administrative policies established by the Louisiana Secretary of State's Records Management program.

Permanent Retention: The following divorce record components are preserved permanently:

Final judgments of divorce
Signed divorce decrees
Property settlement judgments
Child custody final determinations
Case indices and docket books
Microfilmed or digitally archived case files

Long-Term Retention (25+ Years):

Complete case files for divorces involving real property division
Cases establishing precedent or containing significant legal rulings
Matters involving continuing jurisdiction over minor children
Cases with ongoing spousal support obligations

Medium-Term Retention (10-25 Years):

Standard contested divorce case files without minor children
Financial disclosure documentation
Temporary orders and interim judgments
Procedural motions and rulings

Shorter-Term Retention (5-10 Years):

Uncontested divorce proceedings without property disputes
Administrative correspondence related to cases
Scheduling documentation and routine notices
Duplicate filings and working copies

The Bossier Parish Clerk of Court implements a multi-tiered storage system where:

Recent records (0-5 years) remain in active file storage
Intermediate records (5-15 years) transfer to secondary storage
Older records undergo preservation microfilming or digital archiving
Original documents of historical significance transfer to the Louisiana State Archives

For records research spanning multiple decades, requestors may need to:

Check with the Clerk of Court for recent and intermediate records
Contact the Louisiana State Archives for historical records
Utilize the Louisiana Secretary of State's Records Management Division for guidance on older materials

The digitization of court records is an ongoing process, with priority given to preserving older, deteriorating documents while maintaining accessibility to frequently requested materials.

How To Get a Divorce In Bossier County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Bossier Parish must follow established legal procedures under Louisiana law. The divorce process involves several distinct steps and varies based on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested.

Residency Requirements: Before filing, at least one spouse must:

Be a Louisiana resident
Have maintained domicile in the state for at least 12 months prior to filing
File in Bossier Parish if either spouse resides there or if the matrimonial domicile was in the parish

Uncontested Divorce Procedure:

Determine eligibility under Louisiana Civil Code § 103.1 (no-fault) or § 103 (fault-based)
Prepare petition for divorce and related initial documents
File petition with the Bossier Parish Clerk of Court and pay filing fees
Serve divorce papers on the other spouse through proper legal channels
Wait the required separation period (if filing under § 103.1):
- 180 days if no minor children
- 365 days if minor children are involved
File motion for final judgment after waiting period concludes
Attend brief court hearing if required by the judge
Receive signed judgment of divorce

Contested Divorce Procedure:

File initial petition as above
Respond to counter-petitions or oppositions filed by spouse
Engage in discovery process (document exchanges, depositions, interrogatories)
Attend temporary orders hearing for interim arrangements
Participate in court-ordered mediation if applicable
Prepare for and attend settlement conferences
Proceed to trial if settlement not reached
Receive final judgment after trial or negotiated settlement

Filing Location: 26th Judicial District Court
204 Burt Boulevard
Benton, LA 71006
(318) 965-2336
26th Judicial District Court

Legal Assistance Options:

Private attorneys (fees vary significantly)
Northwest Louisiana Legal Services (for income-qualifying individuals)
Self-help resources through the Louisiana Law Library
Court-provided forms for simple uncontested matters

Current filing fees in Bossier Parish are approximately $250-400 for initial divorce petitions, with additional fees for service of process, motions, and other filings. Fee waivers may be available for individuals meeting indigency guidelines through an in forma pauperis application.

How To Get Divorce Papers In Bossier County

Individuals initiating or responding to divorce proceedings in Bossier Parish have several options for obtaining the necessary legal documents. The required paperwork varies based on case circumstances, but all divorce filings must comply with Louisiana statutory requirements and local court rules.

From the Clerk of Court:

Visit the Bossier Parish Clerk of Court's office in person
Request divorce petition packets appropriate to your situation
Basic forms may include:
- Petition for Divorce
- Verification form
- Service instructions
- Information for Civil Cover Sheet
- Affidavit of Income and Expenses (if children involved)
Pay applicable fees for form packets (typically $10-25)

Bossier Parish Clerk of Court
204 Burt Boulevard
Benton, LA 71006
(318) 965-2336
Bossier Parish Clerk of Court

Online Resources:

Visit the 26th Judicial District Court website
Navigate to the "Forms" or "Self-Help" section
Download available divorce petition templates
Access instructions for proper completion and filing
Note that not all necessary forms may be available online

Legal Aid Organizations:

Contact Northwest Louisiana Legal Services
Determine eligibility for assistance based on income guidelines
Request divorce packet materials if eligible
Receive guidance on proper completion

Louisiana Law Library:

Visit the law library located in the courthouse
Request assistance locating divorce form books and templates
Use reference materials to prepare documents
Make copies of sample forms as needed (copy fees apply)

Private Legal Document Services:

Various online legal document preparation services offer Louisiana-specific divorce forms
Costs typically range from $150-300 for basic document packages
Users should verify forms comply with current Louisiana law
These services provide documents only, not legal advice

Important considerations when obtaining divorce papers include:

Different forms are required for divorces with/without children
Additional documents are needed for property division, support requests, or protective orders
Court filing fees are separate from document preparation costs
Forms must be notarized where indicated before filing
Multiple copies are required for filing and service

The Louisiana Supreme Court maintains resources for self-represented litigants that may include divorce form guidance. Individuals with complex situations are advised to consult with an attorney to ensure proper document preparation.