Ingham County Marriage & Divorce Records provide official documentation of marriages and divorces within the county. These records are crucial for legal matters, personal verification, and family history research. Residents often need certified copies for tasks like updating identification, settling estates, or verifying marital status. Maintaining accurate marriage and divorce records ensures that families and legal authorities have reliable information when needed.
Certified Ingham County Marriage & Divorce Records include marriage certificates and divorce decrees, each detailing names, dates, and official signatures. These vital records serve as family records and support legal filings, genealogical research, and historical documentation. Many users also rely on these records for personal planning, such as name changes or confirming family lineage. Quick access to these documents helps simplify official processes and keeps essential marital filings organized and accessible.
What Are Marriage and Divorce Records?
Ingham County marriage and divorce records, maintained by the Ingham County Court, are official civil records that document a couple’s legal union or the dissolution of their marriage. They serve as legal proof of marital status and are essential for personal, financial, and administrative purposes.
Marriage Records
Marriage records, also known as official marriage records, are legal documents issued by the Ingham County Clerk’s Office. They confirm that two individuals are legally married and include critical details such as:
- Full names of both spouses
- Date and place of the marriage
- Officiant or witness information
These records serve multiple purposes:
- Legal Proof of Union: Required for applying for a joint tax return, health insurance, or spousal benefits.
- Name Change Requests: Often needed to update government-issued IDs, passports, or driver’s licenses.
- Family and Historical Records: Useful for genealogical research or maintaining accurate family documentation.
Certified copies of marriage records are considered official civil records. They are often requested by employers, banks, and government agencies to verify marital status. In Ingham County, these records can be requested in person, by mail, or through authorized online channels.
Divorce Records
Divorce records document the legal dissolution of marriage. These records, also referred to as divorce documentation, include details about:
- The official date of divorce
- Property and asset division
- Child custody arrangements and visitation rights
- Spousal support or alimony agreements
Divorce records act as legal proof that a marriage has ended. They are civil records maintained by the Ingham County Clerk’s Office and are often required for:
- Remarriage or updating marital status on legal documents
- Changing beneficiaries or insurance policies
- Resolving disputes over property, custody, or financial matters
Certified copies of divorce records are frequently requested by attorneys, courts, banks, and other institutions to confirm the official end of a marriage.
Legal Importance of Marriage and Divorce Records
Marriage and divorce records are not just administrative paperwork—they carry significant legal weight. Key reasons they are important include:
- Proof of Marital Status: Confirms whether a person is legally married or divorced, which can affect taxes, benefits, and legal rights.
- Official Documentation: Certified copies serve as legal evidence in courts, government agencies, and financial institutions.
- Family Records: Preserves historical information about a family for research, genealogy, or personal reference.
- Legal Dissolution Details: Divorce records document settlements, custody arrangements, and financial obligations, which may be referenced in future legal matters.
How to Access Ingham County Marriage & Divorce Records
Users can request Ingham County marriage and divorce records online, in person, or by mail through the official Ingham County Clerk’s office or its online tools. These civil records include certified copies of marriage certificates and divorce documentation for legal, administrative, and personal use.
Official Online Search and Request URL
Official Self‑Service Portal (Search & Request):
https://clerkrecords.ingham.org/web/
Online Search & Records Request
- Visit the Self‑Service Portal:
Open the official search tool here: https://clerkrecords.ingham.org/web/ - Accept Terms:
Click the button to accept terms if prompted before searching. - Search by Name:
Enter full or partial names of the spouses exactly as they appear on the record.- Try alternate spellings to find older records (e.g., John vs Jonathan).
- Filter by Date or Type (if available):
Narrow results by year of marriage or divorce if the portal options appear. - View Search Results:
You may see indexed entries for records. Note: this tool does not always show full certified documents online. - Request a Certified Copy:
From the portal, choose to purchase a certified copy and follow instructions to pay online. - Complete Payment:
Enter payment details for recording fees. Certified copies typically require a fee (often around $30 for first copy; extra for additional copies). - Enter Delivery Info:
Provide a mailing address where the certified copies will be sent. - Submit Request:
Confirm and submit. You will receive a receipt or confirmation screen.
Visiting In Person
Ingham County Clerk’s Office (Vital Records) handles issuance of marriage records and certified copies of civil records.
Main Office:
Ingham County Clerk
341 S. Jefferson, Mason, MI 48854
Branch Office:
Veterans Memorial Courthouse
313 W. Kalamazoo St., Lansing, MI 48933
Hours (approximate): Mon–Fri, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. with lunch closure (12:30–1:30 p.m.).
(Call ahead to confirm current hours.)
In‑Person Steps
- Go to either office location.
- Bring Valid Photo ID:
Governmentissued ID required for certified copies. - Ask for Marriage or Divorce Record:
Tell staff you need certified copies of Ingham County marriage and divorce records. - Pay Fees at Counter:
You can usually pay by cash, check, money order, or credit/debit. - Receive Copies:
Some records may be printed while you wait; others mailed.
Mail Request
For users who cannot visit:
- Download Request Form:
Marriage certificate request form example:
https://docs.ingham.org/Department/County%20Clerk/New%20Vital%20Forms/Marriage%20Certificate%20Request%20Form%20%28revised%2004.2022%29.pdf - Fill Out the Form:
Include names, date of marriage/divorce, and your contact details. - Include a Copy of Your ID:
Photocopy of current government ID. - Enclose Payment:
- Make check or money order payable to “Ingham County Clerk”.
- Fees commonly ~$30 for the first certified copy (plus additional copies at reduced rates).
- Mail to Clerk’s Office:
Ingham County Clerk, P.O. Box 179, Mason, MI 48854 - Wait for Processing:
Mail requests often take 7–14 business days or longer depending on volume.
Types of Marriage Records
Ingham County marriage records include different forms of marriage certificates that show the legal union of two people. These records may be certified for official use or informational for reference and research.
What Are Marriage Certificates?
A marriage certificate is a type of vital record that documents a marriage. These certificates are part of family records held by the Ingham County Clerk/Registrar of Vital Records. A certificate typically shows key facts about the marriage.
Information included in a marriage certificate:
- Full names of both spouses
- Date of the marriage
- Location of the marriage ceremony (city or township)
- Name of the officiant who performed the ceremony
- Signatures of witnesses (if recorded)
Certified vs. Informational Copies
Marriage records come in two main types:
Certified Copies
A certified copy is an official document with a raised seal or stamp from the Ingham County Clerk’s office. It is accepted by government agencies, employers, schools, and courts.
Certified copies are used for:
- Changing a last name on a driver’s license or passport
- Updating Social Security records
- Applying for spousal benefits or insurance
- Proving marital status for legal matters
Informational Copies
An informational copy shows the same details as a certified copy but does not carry a raised seal or certification. It may be provided for personal use or research but is not valid for official purposes.
Informational copies are useful for:
- Genealogical research and family history
- Personal reference or record review
- School or hobby projects
- Non‑legal purposes where official proof is not required
Uses of Marriage Certificates
Marriage certificates play a role in many areas of life. Common uses include:
- Legal matters: Proving marital status for court cases, divorce filings, estate planning, and tax filing
- Personal identification: Showing proof of marriage to update state or federal IDs
- Family history: Serving as a trustworthy source for building family trees or tracking lineage
- Record requests: Providing evidence when requesting other records or benefits linked to marriage status
Types of Divorce Records
Ingham County divorce records, including divorce decrees, officially document the legal dissolution of a marriage. These records can be requested as certified or unofficial copies depending on their intended use.
What Are Divorce Decrees?
A divorce decree is an official document issued by the court that finalizes the end of a marriage. These records are part of family history and court filings, maintained by the Ingham County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office.
Information typically included in a divorce decree:
- Full names of both parties involved
- Date the divorce was finalized
- Court case number or docket number
- Type of dissolution (e.g., uncontested, contested, default)
- Any orders regarding property division, custody, or spousal support
Certified vs. Unofficial Copies
Certified Copies
A certified copy of a divorce decree carries the court’s official seal and signature. It is legally recognized and accepted by courts, government agencies, and financial institutions.
Certified copies are commonly used for:
- Remarriage applications
- Updating legal documents such as wills, property titles, or insurance policies
- Resolving disputes related to custody, support, or asset division
- Applying for spousal benefits
Unofficial Copies
An unofficial copy contains the same information as the certified version but does not include the court’s seal or signature. It is suitable for reference, personal record-keeping, or genealogical research.
Unofficial copies are often used for:
- Family history research
- Personal review or record comparison
- Non-legal purposes where proof is not required
Uses of Divorce Records
Divorce decrees have a wide range of practical applications:
- Legal: Provides proof of marriage dissolution for court proceedings or legal filings.
- Insurance: Required when updating coverage or claiming benefits.
- Remarriage: Needed to show legal eligibility to marry again.
- Genealogical Research: Acts as a verified source for constructing family trees or documenting family history.
How to Request Ingham County Divorce Records
Divorce records can be requested through the 30th Circuit Court Clerk’s Office in Ingham County. Requests can be made:
- In person: Bring valid government-issued ID and fees.
- By mail: Complete the court’s request form, include a copy of your ID, and payment.
- Online: Some records may be requested through the official court or county portal.
Official contact page: Ingham County Circuit Court – Divorce Records
Steps to Request Certified Copies
Certified copies of marriage certificates and divorce decrees are official records issued by Ingham County that provide legally recognized proof of a marriage or its dissolution. These copies can be requested in person, by mail, or online by eligible individuals.
Who Can Request Certified Copies?
Not everyone is eligible to request certified copies. Certified copies are restricted to protect privacy and are typically available to:
- The person named on the record (spouse or former spouse)
- Immediate family members (parents, siblings, or children)
- Legal representatives with proper authorization
- Authorized government agencies or courts for official purposes
Required Documents
To request a certified copy of a marriage certificate or divorce decree, the following documents are generally required:
- Official Request Form:
- For marriage certificates: Use the Ingham County Clerk’s Marriage Certificate Request Form.
- For divorce decrees: Use the Circuit Court request form for divorce records.
- Government-Issued Photo ID:
- Driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID is required for verification.
- Payment for Fees:
- Typical fees for certified copies range around $30 for the first copy, with additional copies at reduced rates. Payment can often be made via cash, check, money order, or credit card depending on the request method.
Processing Time
- In-person requests: Some certified copies can be issued immediately or within a few business days.
- Mail requests: Processing typically takes 7–14 business days, but may take longer during peak periods.
- Online requests: Processing and mailing time depends on verification and payment confirmation, usually similar to mail requests.
How to Request Certified Copies
In-Person
- Visit the Ingham County Clerk/Registrar of Vital Records for marriage certificates or the 30th Circuit Court Clerk for divorce decrees.
- Submit the completed form, valid ID, and payment at the counter.
- Receive the certified copy in person or have it mailed if necessary.
By Mail
- Complete the request form and attach a photocopy of your government-issued ID.
- Include payment via check or money order made payable to the appropriate office.
- Mail the package to the Clerk’s office address (check the official site for current mailing address).
Online
- Access the Ingham County Clerk e-services portal for marriage records: https://clerkrecords.ingham.org/web/
- Submit the online form, pay fees electronically, and provide your delivery details.
- Certified copies are typically mailed once processed.
Delivery Methods
Certified copies can be delivered via:
- In-person pickup at the Clerk’s office
- Mail to the address provided in the request form
- Online submission followed by mail delivery
Fees and Processing Times
Requesting certified copies of marriage certificates or divorce decrees in Ingham County involves standard fees and varying processing times depending on the request method. These official civil records are issued by the Clerk’s Office or Circuit Court and are legally recognized for use in personal, legal, or administrative matters.
Standard Fees
The cost for certified copies of marriage certificates or divorce decrees generally includes:
- First copy: Approximately $30
- Additional copies: Usually a reduced fee per copy
- Payment methods: Cash, check, money order, or credit/debit card (online requests may require electronic payment)
Processing Times
Processing time depends on how the record is requested:
- In-Person Requests: Many certified copies are issued immediately or within the same day if the record is available.
- Mail Requests: Typically take 7–14 business days, depending on mail delivery and office workload.
- Online Requests: Processing usually aligns with mail requests, though electronic submission and payment can speed up initial verification. Certified copies are mailed once processed.
Searching Historical Marriage & Divorce Records
Genealogical records for marriage and divorce provide valuable insight into family history and lineage. Ingham County historical records can be accessed through public archives, libraries, or online databases, although some older or sensitive records may be restricted.
Public vs. Restricted Records
Historical marriage and divorce records are considered family records and vital records. Some records are publicly available for research, while others remain restricted to protect privacy:
- Public Records: Typically older records, often over 75–100 years, that can be accessed without direct authorization. Useful for genealogy and family history research.
- Restricted Records: More recent records usually require proof of eligibility, such as being a party to the record or an immediate family member. Restricted records include certified copies and sensitive court filings.
Using Archives, Libraries, and Databases
Historical marriage and divorce records can often be located through:
- County Archives: The Ingham County Clerk or Circuit Court may maintain historical files that can be accessed by appointment.
- Libraries: Local libraries, historical societies, or genealogy centers often hold microfilm or indexed copies of old marriage and divorce records.
- Online Genealogical Databases: Websites such as FamilySearch, Ancestry.com, or state archives may include digitized vital records. These databases allow keyword searches by names, dates, or locations, often with indexed court filings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ingham County marriage and divorce records are official civil documents that provide legal proof of marital status and dissolution. They are used for legal, administrative, and genealogical purposes.
How can I request a certified copy of my marriage certificate?
A certified copy can be requested online through the Ingham County Clerk portal at https://clerkrecords.ingham.org/web/, in person at the Clerk’s office in Mason or the Veterans Memorial Courthouse in Lansing with a valid photo ID and payment, or by mail using the official request form with ID and payment included. Certified copies are legally recognized and accepted for official purposes.
Can anyone access Ingham County divorce records online?
No. Divorce records are restricted. Only the parties involved, immediate family members, authorized legal representatives, or government agencies can request certified copies. Full divorce decrees are generally not publicly accessible online, though indexes may be searchable. Requests are made through the 30th Circuit Court Clerk’s Office.
What information is included in a marriage or divorce record?
Marriage records show the names of spouses, date and location of marriage, officiant, and witness signatures. Divorce decrees include the names of both parties, divorce date, court case number, type of dissolution, and any court orders regarding custody, support, or property. These are official family and vital records.
How long does it take to process my request?
In-person requests can be processed immediately or within a few business days. Mail requests generally take seven to fourteen business days, while online requests follow a similar timeframe with electronic submission potentially speeding verification.
Are there restrictions on historical records access?
Older records, usually over 75–100 years, are public and used for genealogical research. Recent records are restricted and require verification of eligibility. Archives, libraries, and genealogical databases are recommended for historical research, using alternate spellings, approximate dates, and cross-referencing sources for accuracy.