Records of divorce in Knox County, Illinois, are available through several channels. KnoxILCourt.us allows quick access to publicly available information regarding divorce records. Additionally, documents can be obtained directly from the circuit court that issued the ruling, at the office of the Circuit Court Clerk, or at the Illinois Department of Public Health. Each of these institutions maintains different types of documents, so the choice of source depends on the specific need.
Knox Divorce Records Search
In Knox County, divorce records (dissolution of marriage) are maintained by the Circuit Court Clerk. This office is the primary custodian of court materials, including divorce decrees, property settlement agreements, custody and support orders, and related procedural documents.
The collection of records includes:
- Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage
- Property settlement agreements
- Child custody and visitation orders
- Maintenance and child support orders
- Related motions and court orders
The Illinois Department of Public Health maintains an index of divorces, but does not issue certified copies — these must be obtained from the Circuit Court Clerk in the county where the decision was made.
Knox County Circuit Court Clerk
Online search for basic case information is possible through the re:SearchIL system, which implements the remote access policy of the Illinois Supreme Court.
Where Divorce Records Are Filed in Knox
In Illinois, divorce cases are handled by the Circuit Court. Knox County is part of the 9th Judicial Circuit, and all divorce cases are heard at the Knox County Courthouse. After a judge issues a decision, the documents remain with the Circuit Court Clerk, who maintains the complete court file.
The state maintains a separate registry at the Department of Public Health, but this is only a verification record, not a complete copy of the court decision. Where to apply depends on the purpose:
| What is needed | Where to apply |
|---|---|
| Full copy of the divorce decree, property settlement agreement, custody order | Knox County Circuit Court Clerk |
| Verification of divorce (verification) | Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Vital Records |
Knox County Circuit Court Clerk
Illinois Department of Public Health — Division of Vital Records
Individuals representing themselves in a divorce case can use the approved standardized forms of the Illinois Supreme Court. Additional assistance can be found on the resources for self-represented litigants page.
Divorce Record Search Fees, Copy Costs, and Processing Times in Knox
| Service | Fee | Typical Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Certified copy of divorce decree (Circuit Court Clerk) | $2.00 for the first page, $0.50 for each additional page; plus $5.00 for certification | Usually the same day for in-person requests; by mail — 5–10 business days |
| Uncertified copy of court document | $0.50 per page | Same day for in-person requests |
| Verification of divorce (IDPH) | $10.00 for search (uncertified copy) | 4–6 weeks by mail |