Compassion. Experience. Results.

Don’t Get Scammed While Seeking Copies of Your Divorce Documents

On Behalf of | Jan 21, 2025 | Firm News |

There are numerous reasons why one spouse might require documentation proving a divorce occurred. Perhaps they intend to remarry, or maybe they simply want to record a deed removing their spouse from the title records for the marital home.

There are numerous scenarios in which individuals may need copies of their divorce decrees to affirm the terms set during the divorce and the fact that the spouses are not married anymore. Fraudsters are aware that people may require those records and could take advantage of those seeking copies of their divorce decree.

People preparing for divorce and those who have recently divorced should be aware of this new and alarming form of fraud.

Third-party providers take advantage of people’s need

Most people assume that they can quickly and easily take care of minor legal matters online. They might search online for how to obtain a copy of a divorce decree. Logically, people assume that the top results in an internet search are the best options.

However, those searching for Tennessee divorce decrees may see results from third-party service providers. These vendors are not necessarily authorized by the state. In some cases, they provide uncertified copies of documents that do not meet the needs of those attempting to remarry or handle other legal matters.

Other times, these service providers redirect people to the Office of Vital Records and Statistics after accepting payment from them. The victims of these schemes pay more than they need to for the documents from their divorces.

People can obtain records through in-person meetings at the health department, by submitting a records request to the Office of Vital Records and Statistics or even by telephone. They may need to pay for copies, and extra fees may apply in cases where they request expedited processing or pay with a credit or debit card.

While there may be costs associated with an official records request, those costs are likely lower than what third-party vendors charge. People can also receive certified copies directly from the Office of Vital Records and Statistics instead of questionable documents provided by an outside party. In some cases, it may even be possible to reach out to the lawyer who assisted with the initial divorce to obtain the necessary records.

Being aware of how fraudsters may try to trick and manipulate people can help people protect their finances and personal identifying information. Those who need copies of divorce records need to go directly to the source or through an attorney rather than through questionable outside businesses.

Archives