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Laramie County Divorce Records

What Are Laramie County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Laramie County are official legal documents maintained by the judicial system that document the dissolution of marriage between two individuals. These records are created and maintained pursuant to Wyoming Statute § 20-2-104, which governs divorce proceedings in the state. Divorce records typically originate in the District Court of Laramie County, where petitions for divorce are filed and processed.

Divorce records serve multiple 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 Wyoming District Court maintains these records as part of its official court functions. Divorce records generally consist of multiple documents that collectively represent the complete legal process of marriage dissolution, from initial filing through final decree.

According to the Wyoming Public Records Act § 16-4-202, certain court records, including divorce proceedings, are considered public information, though specific limitations apply to protect sensitive personal information.

Are Laramie County Divorce Records Public?

Laramie County divorce records have a complex public access status that varies by document type and information sensitivity. Generally, court divorce case files are public records pursuant to Wyoming Statute § 16-4-203, which establishes the presumption of openness for government records. However, this public access is subject to important limitations and exceptions.

The public accessibility of divorce records in Laramie County is structured as follows:

  • Court Divorce Case Files: Basic case information including party names, case numbers, and filing dates are generally available to the public through the court's public access terminals or online systems.

  • Divorce Decrees: Final judgments of divorce are typically public documents, though they may contain redactions of sensitive information.

  • Financial Disclosures and Affidavits: Documents containing detailed financial information may be sealed or redacted to protect privacy.

  • Child Custody Information: Records containing information about minor children often have restricted access pursuant to Wyoming Statute § 20-2-201, which prioritizes the best interests of the child.

  • Certified Divorce Certificates: These official documents verifying divorce have restricted access limited to:

    • Former spouses named in the record
    • Legal representatives with proper authorization
    • Individuals with court orders granting access
    • Government agencies performing official functions

The Wyoming Supreme Court has established rules governing public access to court records that balance transparency with privacy concerns. Certain sensitive information may be redacted or sealed by judicial order, particularly when disclosure would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy or potentially endanger an individual.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Laramie County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in Laramie County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The primary repository for divorce records is the Laramie County District Court, where proceedings are initially filed and maintained.

To obtain divorce records, requesters should follow these steps:

  1. Identify necessary information before initiating a search:

    • Full names of both parties (including maiden names if applicable)
    • Approximate date of divorce filing or finalization
    • Case number (if known)

  2. Contact the Laramie County District Court Clerk's Office:

    Laramie County District Court
    309 W 20th Street
    Cheyenne, WY 82001
    (307) 633-4270
    Laramie County District Court

    Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (excluding holidays)

  3. Submit a records request using the court's official request form, available at the clerk's office or downloadable from the Wyoming Judicial Branch website.

  4. Pay applicable fees for record searches and copies:

    • Record search fee: $10-20 (varies based on search parameters)
    • Copy fees: $1.00 per page for standard copies
    • Certified copies: $5.00-10.00 per document

  5. Present proper identification when requesting records in person. Government-issued photo ID is required.

  6. Allow processing time of 5-10 business days for record retrieval, depending on the age and accessibility of the requested documents.

For divorce records older than 20 years, requesters may need to contact the Wyoming State Archives:

Wyoming State Archives
2301 Central Avenue
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7826
Wyoming State Archives

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Laramie County Online?

Laramie County provides limited online access to divorce record information through several digital platforms. The Wyoming Judicial Branch maintains an online case management system that allows for basic case information searches.

To conduct an online search for divorce records:

  1. Access the Wyoming Judicial Branch Public Portal at https://public.courts.state.wy.us/

  2. Create a user account if you don't already have one. This requires providing basic personal information and agreeing to the terms of service.

  3. Navigate to the case search function and select "Laramie County" from the jurisdiction dropdown menu.

  4. Select "Domestic Relations" or "Family Law" as the case type.

  5. Enter search criteria such as:

    • Party name (last name, first name)
    • Case number (if known)
    • Filing date range

  6. Review search results which typically include:

    • Case number
    • Filing date
    • Party names
    • Case type
    • Current status

It is important to note that the online system provides only limited information about divorce cases. Full case documents are generally not available for download through the public portal due to privacy considerations outlined in Wyoming Supreme Court Rule 6.

For comprehensive divorce records, including pleadings, financial affidavits, and final decrees, requesters must still contact the Laramie County District Court directly or visit in person to review complete files at public access terminals.

The Wyoming State Archives also maintains a searchable database of historical court records at https://wyoarchives.wyo.gov/index.php/court-records, which may include divorce proceedings from earlier periods.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Laramie County?

Members of the public seeking no-cost access to divorce records in Laramie County have several options available, though these methods may have limitations in scope or convenience.

Free access options include:

  1. In-person review at the courthouse:

    Laramie County District Court
    309 W 20th Street
    Cheyenne, WY 82001
    (307) 633-4270
    Laramie County District Court

    • Public access terminals are available during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
    • No fee is charged for viewing records on-site
    • Photo identification is required for access
    • Note that while viewing is free, printing or copying documents incurs standard fees

  2. Laramie County Public Library resources:

    Laramie County Library System
    2200 Pioneer Avenue
    Cheyenne, WY 82001
    (307) 634-3561
    Laramie County Library System

    • The library maintains access to certain public legal databases
    • Reference librarians can assist with navigating available resources
    • Historical newspapers on microfilm may contain divorce announcements

  3. Wyoming State Archives for historical records:

    Wyoming State Archives
    2301 Central Avenue
    Cheyenne, WY 82002
    (307) 777-7826
    Wyoming State Archives

    • Free on-site research access to historical court records
    • Particularly useful for divorces finalized before 2000
    • Appointment recommended for extensive research

  4. Basic case information through the Wyoming Judicial Branch public portal:

    • Limited information is available without charge
    • Full document access is not available through this method
    • Registration is required but free of charge

It is important to note that while viewing records may be free, obtaining copies or certified documents will still incur standard fees as established by Wyoming Statute § 5-3-206, which authorizes courts to charge reasonable fees for reproduction services.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Laramie County

Divorce records in Laramie County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the entire legal process of marriage dissolution. These records are maintained pursuant to Wyoming Statute § 20-2-104 through § 20-2-108, which governs divorce proceedings in the state.

A complete divorce file typically contains the following components:

  • Petition for Dissolution of Marriage: The initial filing that formally requests the divorce, including:

    • Names and addresses of both parties
    • Date and location of marriage
    • Grounds for divorce under Wyoming law
    • Statement regarding residency requirements
    • Information about minor children (if applicable)

  • Summons: Official notice to the respondent about the divorce action

  • Response/Answer: The non-filing spouse's formal reply to the petition

  • Financial Affidavits: Sworn statements detailing:

    • Income from all sources
    • Monthly expenses
    • Assets (real property, vehicles, accounts, investments)
    • Liabilities (mortgages, loans, credit card debt)

  • Property Settlement Agreement: Document outlining the division of:

    • Real estate holdings
    • Personal property
    • Financial accounts
    • Retirement benefits
    • Business interests
    • Debts and liabilities

  • Parenting Plan (for cases involving minor children):

    • Custody arrangements (legal and physical)
    • Visitation/parenting time schedules
    • Decision-making authority
    • Holiday and vacation arrangements

  • Child Support Worksheets and Orders: Calculations and determinations of support obligations

  • Temporary Orders: Court directives governing conduct and responsibilities during the pendency of the case

  • Decree of Divorce: The final judgment that:

    • Legally terminates the marriage
    • Incorporates all agreements or court decisions
    • Establishes post-divorce obligations
    • May include name restoration provisions

  • Certificate of Divorce: Official document verifying the divorce was granted

  • Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs): Special orders for dividing retirement accounts

The level of detail in these records varies based on case complexity, whether the divorce was contested or uncontested, and the presence of minor children or significant assets requiring division.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Laramie County?

Individuals seeking official proof of divorce in Laramie County have several options for obtaining certified documentation that verifies the legal termination of marriage. These documents serve as authoritative evidence for legal name changes, remarriage, immigration proceedings, and other official purposes.

To obtain proof of divorce, requesters should follow these procedures:

  1. Request a Certified Copy of Divorce Decree from the Laramie County District Court:

    Laramie County District Court
    309 W 20th Street
    Cheyenne, WY 82001
    (307) 633-4270
    Laramie County District Court

    Requirements include:

    • Completed request form (available at the court or downloadable from the court website)
    • Valid government-issued photo identification
    • Case number (if known) or names of both parties and approximate date of divorce
    • Payment of certification fee ($5.00-10.00 per document)

  2. Obtain a Certificate of Divorce from the Wyoming Vital Records Services:

    Wyoming Vital Records Services
    Hathaway Building, 1st Floor
    2300 Capitol Avenue
    Cheyenne, WY 82002
    (307) 777-7591
    Wyoming Vital Records Services

    This process requires:

    • Submission of the official application form
    • Proof of identity and legal right to the record
    • Payment of the certificate fee ($20.00 for the first copy, $10.00 for each additional copy)

  3. Request verification through the Wyoming Judicial Branch for divorces finalized after 2000:

    • Submit a written request to the court administrator
    • Provide case information and reason for verification
    • This method provides a verification letter rather than a certified copy

For expedited service, requesters may utilize the court's priority processing option for an additional fee, typically reducing the processing time from 7-10 business days to 2-3 business days.

Pursuant to Wyoming Statute § 20-2-113, certified copies of divorce decrees constitute prima facie evidence of divorce in all courts and administrative agencies within the state of Wyoming.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Laramie County?

Under certain circumstances, divorce proceedings in Laramie County may be granted confidential status, though complete confidentiality is rare due to the presumption of openness in court proceedings established by Wyoming Statute § 16-4-203. The Wyoming Judicial Branch maintains specific protocols for protecting sensitive information while balancing public access rights.

Confidentiality in divorce cases may be established through several mechanisms:

  1. Sealing of Records: Pursuant to Wyoming Rules of Civil Procedure 26(c), a judge may order entire case files or specific documents sealed when:

    • Disclosure would cause clearly defined and serious injury
    • The harm of disclosure outweighs the public interest in access
    • No less restrictive alternatives would adequately protect the interests at stake

  2. Redaction of Sensitive Information: Certain information is automatically protected from public disclosure, including:

    • Social Security numbers
    • Financial account numbers
    • Names of minor children
    • Dates of birth
    • Medical information

  3. Confidential Financial Affidavits: Detailed financial disclosures required in divorce proceedings receive heightened protection under Wyoming court rules.

  4. Domestic Violence Considerations: Cases involving allegations of domestic violence may receive additional confidentiality protections under Wyoming Statute § 35-21-105, particularly when protective orders are involved.

  5. Use of Pseudonyms: In exceptional cases, the court may permit parties to file under "Jane Doe" or "John Doe" designations.

To request confidentiality, parties must:

  • File a formal motion with the Laramie County District Court
  • Demonstrate specific, articulable reasons why standard redaction is insufficient
  • Propose the least restrictive confidentiality measures necessary
  • Obtain a court order specifically authorizing the confidentiality measures

It is important to note that even when certain documents are sealed, basic case information typically remains public, including party names, case numbers, and the fact that a divorce was filed and granted. Complete anonymity in divorce proceedings is extremely rare and granted only in exceptional circumstances.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Laramie County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Laramie County varies significantly based on multiple factors, including case complexity, cooperation between parties, and court caseload. Wyoming law establishes certain minimum timeframes, but the actual process often extends beyond these statutory minimums.

Key timeframe factors include:

  1. Statutory Waiting Period:

    • Wyoming law requires a minimum 20-day waiting period from filing to finalization pursuant to Wyoming Statute § 20-2-108
    • This represents the absolute minimum time possible under ideal circumstances

  2. Type of Divorce:

    • Uncontested Divorces: When parties agree on all issues
      • Typical timeframe: 30-90 days from filing to decree
      • Factors affecting duration include document preparation, scheduling, and court workload
    • Contested Divorces: When parties disagree on one or more substantive issues
      • Typical timeframe: 6-12 months
      • Complex asset division or custody disputes may extend beyond 12 months
      • Multiple court appearances and potential discovery disputes add significant time

  3. Presence of Minor Children:

    • Cases involving custody determinations typically take 2-4 months longer
    • Court may require parenting classes, adding 30-60 days
    • Guardian ad litem appointments extend timeframes by 60-90 days

  4. Property Division Complexity:

    • High-value assets requiring appraisal: additional 2-3 months
    • Business valuation needs: additional 3-4 months
    • Retirement account division requiring QDROs: additional 1-2 months

  5. Court Congestion:

    • Current average time to hearing in Laramie County: 45-60 days
    • Contested trial settings may have 4-6 month scheduling windows

According to statistics from the Wyoming Judicial Branch, the median time from filing to disposition for divorce cases in Laramie County is approximately 4.2 months, with 75% of cases resolving within 7 months. However, approximately 10% of cases extend beyond 12 months due to complexity or high conflict.

Parties seeking expedited processing should consider mediation or collaborative divorce approaches, which can significantly reduce timeframes while potentially improving outcomes and reducing costs.

How Long Does Laramie County Keep Divorce Records?

Laramie County maintains divorce records according to a structured retention schedule established under Wyoming Statute § 9-2-411 and the Wyoming Judicial Branch Records Retention Schedule. These guidelines ensure the preservation of important legal documents while managing storage resources effectively.

The retention periods for divorce records vary by document type and historical significance:

  1. Case Files and Decrees:

    • Current Practice: Divorce decrees and final judgments are permanently retained
    • Complete Case Files: Maintained for a minimum of 50 years from date of final disposition
    • After 50 years, files may be transferred to the Wyoming State Archives for historical preservation

  2. Supporting Documentation:

    • Financial affidavits and discovery materials: 10 years after case closure
    • Temporary orders: 10 years after case closure
    • Guardian ad litem reports: 25 years after case closure
    • Exhibits: Returned to parties or destroyed 2 years after appeals period expires

  3. Electronic Records:

    • Basic case information in the court management system: Permanently retained
    • Scanned documents: Follow the same retention schedule as paper originals
    • Audio recordings of proceedings: 10 years minimum

  4. Index and Docket Books:

    • Permanently retained as essential historical and legal records
    • Older index books (pre-1980) have been digitized for preservation

For records that have exceeded their retention period at the courthouse, the Wyoming State Archives serves as the repository of last resort:

Wyoming State Archives
2301 Central Avenue
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7826
Wyoming State Archives

The Archives maintains significant historical court records, including divorce proceedings dating back to territorial days. These records are preserved for their historical and genealogical value, with many older records digitized and accessible through the Archives' research services.

It is important to note that while the physical records may be destroyed after their retention period, the legal fact of divorce remains permanently recorded in court indices and the Wyoming Vital Records system.

How To Get a Divorce In Laramie County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Laramie County must follow specific procedures established under Wyoming law. The divorce process, legally termed "dissolution of marriage," is governed by Wyoming Statute § 20-2-104 through § 20-2-108.

To initiate and complete a divorce in Laramie County, petitioners should follow these steps:

  1. Establish Residency:

    • At least one spouse must have been a Wyoming resident for a minimum of 60 days immediately preceding the filing
    • Residency must be bona fide with intent to remain in the state

  2. Prepare Required Documents:

    • Complaint/Petition for Divorce
    • Summons
    • Vital Statistics Form
    • Confidential Financial Affidavit
    • If children are involved: Child Custody Information Sheet and Child Support Computation Form

  3. File Documents with the Court:

    Laramie County District Court
    309 W 20th Street
    Cheyenne, WY 82001
    (307) 633-4270
    Laramie County District Court

    • Pay filing fee (approximately $120-170, with fee waivers available for qualifying individuals)
    • Receive case number and initial hearing date if applicable

  4. Serve Documents on Spouse:

    • Personal service by sheriff or process server
    • Certified mail with return receipt requested
    • Publication (in cases where spouse cannot be located)
    • Acceptance of service (if spouse agrees to accept documents voluntarily)

  5. Wait for Response Period:

    • Spouse has 20 days to file a response if served in Wyoming
    • 30 days if served outside Wyoming
    • If no response is filed, petitioner may seek default judgment

  6. Complete Mandatory Requirements:

    • Attend parenting class if minor children are involved
    • Complete financial disclosures
    • Participate in mediation if ordered by the court

  7. Negotiate Settlement or Prepare for Trial:

    • Work toward agreement on property division, support, and custody
    • If agreement is reached, prepare settlement documents
    • If no agreement, prepare for contested hearing

  8. Attend Final Hearing:

    • Present settlement agreement for court approval, or
    • Participate in contested trial where judge will decide disputed issues

  9. Obtain Divorce Decree:

    • After approval, the court issues the final decree
    • Decree becomes effective immediately upon entry

For assistance with the divorce process, individuals may contact:

Legal Aid of Wyoming
1813 Carey Avenue
Cheyenne, WY 82001
(877) 432-9955
Legal Aid of Wyoming

Wyoming State Bar Lawyer Referral Service
(307) 632-9061
Wyoming State Bar

How To Get Divorce Papers In Laramie County

Individuals seeking to initiate divorce proceedings in Laramie County have several options for obtaining the necessary legal forms and documents. The Wyoming Judicial Branch provides standardized forms for self-represented litigants, though complex cases may require attorney assistance.

To obtain divorce papers in Laramie County, individuals may utilize the following resources:

  1. Wyoming Judicial Branch Website:

    • Access standardized divorce forms through the Wyoming Supreme Court Forms Library
    • Forms are available for both contested and uncontested divorces
    • Separate form packets exist for cases with and without minor children
    • Documents are provided in fillable PDF format with detailed instructions

  2. Laramie County District Court Clerk's Office:

    Laramie County District Court
    309 W 20th Street
    Cheyenne, WY 82001
    (307) 633-4270
    Laramie County District Court

    • Paper copies of standard forms available for a nominal fee
    • Staff cannot provide legal advice but can answer procedural questions
    • Public access computers available for downloading and printing forms

  3. Equal Justice Wyoming:

    • Online self-help resources and forms available at Equal Justice Wyoming
    • Interactive interviews that generate customized forms based on responses
    • Video tutorials explaining the divorce process

  4. Laramie County Law Library:

    Laramie County Law Library
    309 W 20th Street, 2nd Floor
    Cheyenne, WY 82001
    (307) 633-4280

    • Reference materials on family law
    • Access to legal research databases
    • Sample forms and pleadings

  5. Legal Aid of Wyoming:

    Legal Aid of Wyoming
    1813 Carey Avenue
    Cheyenne, WY 82001
    (877) 432-9955
    Legal Aid of Wyoming

    • Free legal forms and assistance for qualifying low-income individuals
    • Monthly legal advice clinics
    • Self-help divorce workshops

The basic divorce packet typically includes:

  • Petition/Complaint for Divorce
  • Summons
  • Confidential Financial Affidavit
  • Vital Statistics Form
  • Acknowledgment and Acceptance of Service (if applicable)
  • Affidavit of Plaintiff for Divorce by Default (if applicable)
  • Decree of Divorce

For cases involving children, additional required forms include:

  • Child Custody Information Sheet
  • Child Support Computation Worksheet
  • Confidential Child Support Authorization Form
  • Parenting Plan

All forms must be completed according to court rules and filed with appropriate filing fees, currently $120-170 depending on the case type, with fee waivers available for qualifying individuals.

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