Records of divorce in Ulster County, New York, can be obtained through several channels. UlsterCourt.us allows quick access to public information about divorce records in this county. Additionally, case materials are stored at the Ulster County Clerk's Office, which maintains Supreme Court records. Divorce certificates are also issued by the New York State Department of Health (NYS Department of Health), which serves as the state archive of vital records. Requests can be submitted online, by mail, by phone, or in person.
Ulster Divorce Records Search
Divorce cases in Ulster County are handled by the New York State Supreme Court, as this court has exclusive jurisdiction over marriage and family matters in the state. Once a case is concluded, the materials are transferred to the Ulster County Clerk's Office, where all civil and criminal records of the Supreme and County Courts are stored.
The collection of divorce records includes:
- Divorce decrees / judgments of divorce
- Settlement agreements
- Custody orders
- Associated procedural documents — complaints, summons, affidavits
Divorce certificates — a separate document confirming the fact of divorce without case details — are issued by the New York State Department of Health. Note: divorce case materials are available only to the plaintiff, defendant, or their attorney. These documents are not issued to third parties.
Ulster County Clerk's Office
Where Divorce Records Are Filed in Ulster
In New York State, divorce is processed exclusively through the Supreme Court. Despite its name, this is not an appellate court — it handles civil cases of first instance, including marriage and family matters. Once the judge signs the divorce decree, the document is filed with the clerk's office of the county where the case was filed.
If you need a complete set of court documents — decrees, agreements, custody orders — contact the county clerk. However, if you only need a certificate confirming the fact of divorce, it is issued by the Department of Health.
To Obtain Court Records
Ulster County Clerk's Office — Court Records Division
Phone inquiries are accepted for informational purposes only. To obtain copies of documents, use the Search IQS system or submit a request in person or by mail. The clerk's website also offers a packet of forms for uncontested divorce, which includes affidavits, summons, a certificate of dissolution of marriage, and other necessary forms.
To Obtain a Divorce Certificate
New York State Department of Health — Vital Records Section
The department maintains records of divorces processed since 1963. For divorces that occurred earlier, contact the county clerk where the case was filed. Historical court records of Ulster County may also contain archival materials of earlier cases.
Divorce Record Search Fees, Copy Costs, and Processing Times in Ulster
| Service | Fee | Typical Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Certified copy of divorce certificate (NYS Department of Health) | $30.00 | 4–6 weeks (by mail) |
| Search in the Department of Health database (additional search year) | $10.00 per additional year | Included in overall processing time |
| Copy of court documents (Ulster County Clerk) | $1.25 per page; $0.50 for each additional | Depends on the request volume; typically 5–10 business days |
| Document certification (Ulster County Clerk) | $5.00 per document | Included in copy processing time |