Multnomah County Marriage & Divorce Records

Multnomah Marriage & Divorce Court Records document legally recorded marriages and marital dissolutions filed through Multnomah County courts. These records form part of official family law records and reflect key life events tied to court proceedings. People rely on them to confirm marital status, review filing history, or support legal paperwork. The records follow county and state rules, which helps maintain accuracy across cases. Many searches begin here to find reliable Multnomah County marriage and divorce information.

Multnomah Marriage & Divorce Court Records also help explain how family law cases progress within the county court system. They connect marriage filings, divorce actions, and related family case activity under one record trail. In many cases, these files link to custody orders, support rulings, or name changes recorded by the court. Family law records Multnomah County Court residents seek often start with these core documents. This section explains what these records contain and why they matter.

Multnomah County Marriage Records Search

Users can search marriage records Multnomah County using the county’s official recorded documents search tool and request copies online. For older or offline records, options include mail‑in requests or visiting the county office in person.

Official URL for the Online Records Search:
https://multco.us/services/tax-property-marriage-and-military-discharge-records

This is Multnomah County’s official Recorded Documents Search site where users can look up marriage records by name, date, and document type.

Open the Official Search Website

Go to the official site:
https://multco.us/services/tax-property-marriage-and-military-discharge-records

This tool lets users search recorded documents including marriage licenses and certificates by multiple search criteria.

Start a New Search

Once the page loads:

• Find the search form (usually near the top).
• Choose “Marriage License” or similar from the Document Type dropdown if available.
• Enter the last name of one spouse in the appropriate field.
• Optionally add a first name, middle initial, or date range if you know it.

Set Search Filters

If the tool shows filter options:

• Date Range: Enter the year or years the marriage took place.
• County: Ensure it is set to Multnomah County.
• Party Names: Enter both names if the tool allows multiple names.

Review Search Results

After submitting the search:

• The tool shows a results list with:
  • Document number
  • Party names on the record
  • Date of recording
  • Document type
  • Link to preview or order a copy

Results available online are usually from 1990 to present. Records from 1980–1989 appear only in index form (names and dates but not full images).

View or Order Copies

From the result list:

• To view a non‑certified copy, click the preview or document link.
• To order a certified copy:
  • Click the order button (if shown) or add the document to the checkout cart.
  • Follow the payment steps.
  • Certified copies are mailed to the user; non‑certified digital versions usually download immediately after payment.

Steps to Information Needed Before Searching

Before you begin, compile the following details. Having accurate data speeds up results and avoids errors.

Required Search Details:

• Full Names of both spouses at time of marriage
• Approximate Date / Year of the marriage
• County of Record: must be Multnomah County
• Additional name variations if spelling is uncertain

What Records the Tool Shows

The official search tool displays:

• Marriage license records and certificates digitally from 1990 to present
• Index information (names/dates) for 1980–1989
• Document metadata
• Recording dates and document numbers

Mail‑In Certified Copy Request

If the record is before online records or not found online, use the County’s Certified Copy Request Form:

Download form (naked URL):
https://multco.us/file/request_for_certified_copies/download  

• Complete the form with names, date, and contact info.
• Mail with check or money order (no cash) to the address on the form.
• Certified copies are mailed back in a few business days.

How to Search Multnomah County Divorce Records

Searching divorce filings and dissolution cases in Multnomah County starts with an official court records tool and may include further steps if the online results are limited. Users can access basic case information through free tools or request full court documents as needed.

Online Divorce Case Search

The Oregon Judicial Department provides an online records and calendar search service that allows basic case lookups. This tool is the starting point for finding family court divorce records and other filing information.

Official Oregon online records search:
https://www.courts.oregon.gov/services/online/pages/records-calendars.aspx

Open the Official Tool

• Go to the official Oregon Judicial Department Records & Calendar Search page listed above.
• Confirm the URL begins with https://www.courts.oregon.gov to ensure you are on the correct government site.

Start a Record Search

• Look for the link or section labeled “Records & Calendar Search.”
• Read the notes on the page explaining that some case types may not be available online due to privacy laws and state rules.

Enter Search Criteria

• Case Number Search: If you have the exact case number from a prior document or correspondence, input it here.
• Name Search: Enter the full last name, first name of at least one party.
• Optional filters (if shown) include location (Multnomah County) and case type (Domestic / Family law).
• Click the “Search” or similar button to retrieve results.

What to Expect From Results

• The system may display basic docket information, including filing year and case type.
• Not all documents, such as full divorce decrees or sensitive filings, will display online. Some cases are restricted and show only minimal details.
• If the search shows no matches, try alternative spellings or remove middle names.

Alternative Online Case Search Options

If free access does not show the needed case details, Oregon offers a more advanced paid system:

OJCIN OnLine:
https://www.courts.oregon.gov/services/online/pages/ojcin.aspx

This system provides more extensive access to court cases across Oregon’s circuit courts, including family law files. Users must create an account and may pay a subscription fee to use this service.

In‑Person Divorce Record Requests

If online search results are incomplete or if users need certified copies of divorce filings or dissolution decrees, visiting the county court records office is the next step.

Where to Go:
Multnomah County Circuit Court Records Department
1200 SW 1st Avenue (or current address listed by the court) Portland.

In‑Person Search Procedures

• Arrive at the Clerk’s Office during posted hours.
• Ask for the “Court Records Request” form for divorce or family law records.
• Provide:
  • Full legal names of both parties involved.
  • Approximate filing date or year.
  • Case number (if known).
• Show a government‑issued photo ID.
• Choose whether you want:
  • Standard copies
  • Certified copies (for legal use)
  • Digital copies (if offered)

Fees and Turnaround

• Fees vary based on page count, certification, and how copies are delivered.
• Older cases may take additional time to locate if not fully digitized.
• Staff can help confirm whether records are available or restricted based on state rules and privacy limits.

What Marriage and Divorce Records Represent

Marriage and divorce records in Multnomah County serve as official proof of a legal relationship. They show when a marriage began, when a dissolution occurred, and which parties were involved. For many residents, these files confirm marital status records for legal, financial, or historical reasons.

Marriage records typically include names, dates, and locations tied to a marriage certificate. Divorce records outline the end of a legal relationship through court action. At the same time, both fall under legal relationship records that reflect changes in family status over time.

Definition of Marriage Records

Marriage records document a legally recognized union recorded within Multnomah County. These files usually begin with a marriage license and conclude with a marriage certificate after the ceremony.

Common details found in marriage records include:

• Full legal names of both spouses
• Date and place of the ceremony
• License issue and filing dates
• Officiant information

Definition of Divorce Records

Divorce records confirm the legal end of a marriage through the county court system. They form part of family case records and reflect a court-approved dissolution.

These records may contain:

• Case number and filing date
• Names of both parties
• Type of dissolution
• Final judgment date

How These Records Differ From General Court Records

Marriage and divorce records focus on family status rather than broader legal disputes. General court records cover criminal cases, civil lawsuits, traffic matters, and probate filings. Marriage and divorce files center on marital status records and family relationships.

A simple comparison shows the difference clearly:

Who Maintains Marriage and Divorce Records in Multnomah County

Several county offices handle these records based on record type and purpose. Clear separation helps maintain accuracy and proper filing.

Key record keepers include:

• Multnomah County Clerk – maintains marriage licenses and certificates
• Multnomah County Circuit Court – maintains divorce filings and judgments
• Oregon Vital Records Office – archives certified marriage and divorce data

Why These Records Matter

Marriage and divorce records support many real-life needs. They confirm legal relationship history, protect rights, and provide clarity during life changes.

Common reasons people rely on these records include:

• Verifying marital status for legal documents
• Researching family history
• Supporting court or administrative filings
• Confirming eligibility for benefits

How Marriage and Divorce Records Fit Into Family Case Records

Divorce records often serve as a starting point for broader family case records. These may cover custody, parenting time, or support orders. Marriage records, by comparison, usually stand alone unless tied to later court actions.

So, marriage and divorce records work together to reflect changes in family structure. Each record marks a legal milestone within Multnomah County’s official history.

By organizing these records clearly, the county preserves reliable marital status records that support both legal clarity and public confidence.

Types of Marriage Records Available in Multnomah County

Multnomah County maintains marriage records in several forms, with each serving a different legal purpose. The most common records include marriage licenses, marriage certificates, and records with public or restricted availability rules.

Marriage records in Multnomah County document a legal union from application through registration. These records support identity verification, marital status proof, and lawful recognition of a marriage. Each record type carries a distinct role, time of issue, and level of availability under Oregon law.

Marriage Licenses

A marriage license is the legal document that grants permission to marry within Multnomah County. Couples must receive this record before a ceremony can take place.

Marriage licenses serve as proof that both parties met state requirements at the time of application. County staff review age, identity, and marital status before issuing the license. This process protects the legal validity of the marriage.

Key points about marriage licenses:

• Issued before the wedding ceremony
• Valid for a limited period, often 60 days
• Required for officiants to legally perform a marriage
• Filed with the county after the ceremony

Marriage Certificates

A marriage certificate confirms that a marriage has taken place and has been recorded by Multnomah County. This document carries long-term legal value.

After the completed license is returned and recorded, the county creates a marriage certificate. People often request this record for legal and administrative needs.

Types of marriage certificates:

Public vs. Restricted Marriage Records

Marriage records in Multnomah County follow public record laws with defined limits. Most older marriage records remain publicly available, yet some newer records carry restrictions.

Restrictions usually apply to recent filings to protect privacy. State rules may limit who may request certified copies during a defined time period.

Common factors affecting record availability:

• Time since the marriage was recorded
• Requester relationship to the named parties
• Type of copy requested

Types of Divorce and Dissolution Records in Multnomah County

Multnomah County family courts create several types of divorce and dissolution records, each tied to a specific stage of a case. These records include divorce filings, final divorce decrees, and documents related to annulments or legal separations.

These records help confirm marital status, document court decisions, and show how a family law case progressed. Below is a clear breakdown of each major record type and what it usually contains.

Divorce Filings

Divorce filings mark the official start of a family court case in Multnomah County. They show when a marriage dissolution request entered the court system.

Initial petitions

An initial petition is the first document filed by one spouse. It states the request for divorce and outlines basic facts about the marriage.

These filings often include:

• Full names of both spouses
• Date and place of marriage
• Grounds for divorce under Oregon law
• Requests related to children, support, or property

Case initiation details

Case initiation details provide a snapshot of how the case began. They help confirm filing dates and court jurisdiction.

Key details usually listed:

• Filing date and county
• Family court division
• Type of dissolution case
• Assigned judge or court department

Divorce Decrees and Final Judgments

Divorce decrees represent the court’s final decision. They officially end the marriage and resolve all open issues.

What information they contain

A divorce decree, sometimes called a final judgment, includes the court’s binding orders.

Common sections cover:

• Date the divorce became final
• Division of marital property and debts
• Child custody and parenting plans
• Child support and spousal support terms

Why they are commonly requested

Divorce decrees serve as proof of marital dissolution. Many agencies rely on them for verification.

They are often requested for:

• Name changes on official records
• Remarriage applications
• Retirement or pension updates
• Immigration or benefit reviews

Annulments and Legal Separations

Annulments and legal separations differ from standard divorce cases. Each creates a unique type of court record.

How they differ from divorce

An annulment states that a valid marriage never existed under the law. Legal separation ends shared financial duties without ending the marriage.

Key differences include:

• Annulment: marriage treated as invalid from the start
• Legal separation: spouses remain legally married
• Divorce: marriage legally ends

Record availability

Records for annulments and legal separations appear in the same family court system. They follow similar filing and judgment formats.

Available documents may include:

• Initial separation petitions
• Court-approved separation agreements
• Annulment judgments

Multnomah County Family Court System

The Multnomah County Family Court System manages family case records related to marriage, divorce, custody, and support matters. These cases fall under the county’s circuit court, which holds authority over domestic relations disputes.

How the Multnomah County Family Court System Works

The Multnomah County family court operates as part of the Oregon Circuit Court system, handling legal matters that affect family relationships. This system focuses on family case records tied to marriage, divorce, legal separation, and parental rights. People often interact with this court during major life events, which makes clarity and structure a priority.

At the county level, family law cases do not go to a separate courthouse. Instead, the Multnomah County Circuit Court serves as the main forum for domestic relations court matters. Judges assigned to family law hear cases based on subject type, not by a separate court name.

Key family matters handled here include:

• Marriage dissolution filings
• Divorce judgments and decrees
• Child custody and parenting plans
• Child and spousal support orders
• Paternity and legal separation cases

Courts That Handle Marriage and Divorce Cases

Marriage and divorce cases in Multnomah County fall under the Domestic Relations Division of the Circuit Court. This division hears all filings connected to marital status and family structure. Clerks manage records, schedules, and case documentation for these matters.

Divorce cases often begin with a petition filed at the circuit court clerk’s office. From that point, the case receives a docket number and enters the family law calendar. Marriage-related filings, such as annulments or delayed marriage records tied to court action, follow the same path.

Common filings processed by this court include:

• Petitions for dissolution of marriage
• Responses and counterclaims
• Final divorce judgments
• Motions to modify prior orders

Role of the Circuit Court in Family Law Matters

The Multnomah County Circuit Court plays a central role in family law. It holds authority to hear evidence, issue rulings, and approve final orders that affect family rights and duties. Judges evaluate facts related to finances, parenting, and legal obligations.

Family law judges rely on Oregon statutes and local court rules. Hearings may involve temporary orders, settlement conferences, or trials. Court staff support the process by managing filings and preserving accurate records.

Typical responsibilities of the circuit court include:

• Reviewing divorce agreements
• Issuing custody and visitation orders
• Setting child support amounts
• Enforcing existing family court orders

Jurisdiction Over Family Case Records

Jurisdiction refers to the court’s legal authority to hear a case. In Multnomah County, the circuit court holds jurisdiction over family law cases when one party lives in the county or when the event occurred there. Oregon law sets these boundaries to keep cases filed in the proper location.

Family case records stay within county jurisdiction unless a case transfers or an appeal occurs. Appeals move to a higher court, though the original records remain part of the county file. This system protects record continuity and legal accuracy.

Jurisdiction usually depends on:

• County residency requirements
• Location of marriage or separation
• Prior court orders linked to the case

How to Request Certified Copies of Marriage or Divorce Records

Certified copies of marriage certificates and divorce decree records come from the court or vital records office that holds the official case file. Requests follow set eligibility rules and approved submission methods to protect official court documents.

What Certified Copies Mean

Certified copies serve as legally recognized versions of marriage certificates and divorce decree records. Courts stamp or seal these copies to confirm authenticity. People often use them for name changes, benefits, or legal proof of marital status.

In Multnomah County, certified records usually originate from the Circuit Court for divorce cases and from vital records offices for marriage certificates. Each agency keeps custody of specific document types, which shapes how requests work.

Eligibility Requirements

Only certain parties may request certified records. Courts apply these rules to protect privacy and sensitive details within family files.

Eligible requestors often include:

• One of the spouses named in the record
• Legal representatives with written authorization
• Immediate family members, based on record type
• Government agencies with statutory authority

Request Methods

Multnomah County offers several ways to request certified copies. Each method follows the same verification rules.

Online Requests: Online systems handle many marriage certificates and selected court records. Requestors submit identification details and pay required fees during checkout.
Mail Requests: Mail requests require a written form, valid identification copy, and payment. Processing begins once staff confirm eligibility and payment.
In-Person Requests: In-person service takes place at the courthouse or records office. This option works well for urgent needs or questions about official court documents.

Processing Time and Fees

Processing time varies by request volume and method. Online and in-person requests often move faster than mail submissions.

Typical timelines include:

• Online or in-person: several business days
• Mail requests: one to three weeks

Fee structures usually include:

• Base certification fee per document
• Extra charges for additional copies
• Possible service or convenience fees

Public Access, Privacy Laws, and Record Restrictions

Marital status records follow Oregon public records laws, with limits set by privacy rules. Some family files remain restricted or sealed, which affects public court data availability.

Oregon Public Records Laws

Oregon law supports public inspection of many court records. Marriage and divorce filings often appear in public indexes, though certified copies still require proper requests. These laws balance openness with privacy protections.

Redacted Information

Courts remove sensitive data from publicly viewed files. Redactions may include:

• Social Security numbers
• Financial account details
• Names of minor children

Sealed Divorce Cases

Some divorce cases remain sealed by court order. Sealing often occurs in cases involving safety concerns or confidential settlements. Sealed family records stay unavailable to the public without judicial approval.

Multnomah County vs Oregon Marriage & Divorce Records

County offices manage case-level records, while state agencies hold indexed data for Oregon marriage records and Oregon divorce records. The correct source depends on the purpose of the search.

When to Search County Records

County records work best for:

• Certified divorce decree records
• Case filings and judgments
• Local amendments or corrections

When State-Level Records Are Required

State-level searches suit:

• Statistical verification of marriages or divorces
• Older Oregon marriage records
• Requests that need statewide coverage

Locations & Contact Information

The Multnomah County marriage court location and divorce court location are part of the Multnomah County Circuit Court family law services in Portland and Gresham. These family court locations have set addresses, phone numbers, and email contacts to help with filings, marriage records, divorce records, and office inquiries.

Physical Address & Court Contact Details

Multnomah County Justice Center (Family Law Services)
1021 SW 4th Avenue, Portland, OR 97204
Phone: 971-274-0600 (Family Law Department)
Email: Mul.Familylaw@ojd.state.or.us

East County Courthouse (Family Court & Record Requests)
18480 SE Stark Street, Gresham, OR 97233
Phone: 971-274-0700 (Main courthouse phone)
Email: Mul.ECC@ojd.state.or.us

Marriage & Divorce Records (Records Department)
Multnomah County Courthouse, 1200 SW 1st Ave, Portland, OR 97204
Phone: 971-274-0570 (Records – no voicemail)
Email: mul.records@ojd.state.or.us

These locations serve marriage filings, dissolution of marriage (divorce) cases, and family law matters. The records department handles requests for certified copies of decrees and case documents.

Operating Hours & Accessible Services

Most family court services are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Public counters may close briefly for lunch or docket changes. Phone lines are usually open 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. on weekdays.

Accessibility features include wheelchair access, ADA-compliant restrooms, and assistive listening support in select areas. Visitors should plan extra time for security checks at building entrances.

Parking & Public Transit Tips

Parking:

• Street meters and nearby public garages surround the downtown Portland locations. Parking fills early on weekdays.
• East County Courthouse also offers nearby lot options with moderate rates.

Public transport:

• MAX Light Rail and multiple TriMet bus routes serve the downtown Justice Center and Multnomah County Courthouse.
• Buses and regional routes also reach the Gresham area near East County.

Frequently Asked Questions

Multnomah County Marriage and Divorce Records are commonly open to the public, based on Oregon public record law. Availability depends on the record type, filing date, and any court-imposed limits.

This section answers common questions about marriage certificates, divorce filings, and family court records in Multnomah County. Each response focuses on clarity, accuracy, and real-world use.

Are Multnomah County marriage records public?

Yes, most Multnomah County marriage records are public records. Some personal details may stay restricted to protect privacy.

Marriage records filed in Multnomah County become part of the public record once recorded by the county clerk. Members of the public may view basic information such as names of both parties, marriage date, and filing location. Sensitive personal data, such as Social Security numbers, does not appear in public copies.

Records created in recent decades are usually maintained at the county level. Older marriage records may appear in state archives or historical record systems. Public availability supports legal verification, genealogy research, and marital status confirmation.

How long does it take to receive a marriage certificate?

Processing time ranges from a few business days to several weeks. The request method directly affects delivery speed.

Requests made in person at the Multnomah County Clerk’s Office often move faster since identity checks happen on site. Mail requests take longer due to handling and postal delivery. Online request systems may offer faster processing, though timelines vary based on demand.

Seasonal increases, such as summer wedding periods, may extend wait times. Processing delays may also occur during holidays or staff shortages.

Can someone view old divorce records?

Yes, older divorce records are usually available for public viewing. Availability depends on archival status and court retention rules.

Multnomah County Circuit Court keeps divorce case files, final judgments, and docket information. Many older records remain accessible through archived court systems. Some historical files exist in microfilm or off-site storage, which may require extra retrieval time.

Public divorce records typically show party names, case numbers, filing dates, and final rulings. These records support background checks, legal research, and historical review.

What happens if a divorce record is sealed?

Sealed divorce records are closed to public review. Only authorized parties may view them.

A judge may seal a divorce record to protect sensitive matters such as minor-related information, financial disclosures, or safety concerns. Once sealed, the case no longer appears in public search results or record indexes.

Only the parties named in the case, their legal representatives, or court-approved requestors may review sealed files. Any release outside these limits requires a formal court order.

Are online searches official?

Online searches provide helpful case details but are not certified records. Official legal use requires documents issued by the court or county office.

Online court search tools allow users to review case status, filing history, and docket numbers. These systems help confirm whether a marriage or divorce record exists in Multnomah County. Certified copies remain the only format accepted for legal or government purposes.

Online results should be used for reference and verification, not as legal proof.