Cambria County Public Records /Cambria County Divorce Records

Cambria County Divorce Records

What Are Cambria County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Cambria County are official legal documents maintained by the county court system that document the dissolution of marriage between two individuals. These records are created and maintained pursuant to Pennsylvania Divorce Code § 3301, which governs divorce proceedings throughout the Commonwealth. The Cambria County Court of Common Pleas has jurisdiction over divorce cases within the county, and all associated documentation becomes part of the public record upon filing.

Divorce records typically serve multiple important purposes:

Legal proof of marital status change
Documentation required for remarriage
Evidence for name change proceedings
Verification for Social Security benefits
Supporting documentation for loan applications
Required evidence for immigration matters
Historical and genealogical research

The Cambria County Prothonotary Office serves as the official custodian of civil court records, including divorce proceedings. As the principal clerk of the civil division of the Court of Common Pleas, the Prothonotary maintains these records in accordance with Pennsylvania state law.

Are Cambria County Divorce Records Public?

Divorce records in Cambria County maintain a complex status regarding public accessibility. Generally, court divorce case files are considered public records under the Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law, which establishes the presumption that government records are public unless specifically exempted. However, this public access is subject to important limitations and exceptions.

The following components of divorce records typically maintain different levels of accessibility:

Generally Public: Basic case information including parties' names, case numbers, filing dates, and final decree dates
Limited Access: Financial disclosures, custody evaluations, and certain sensitive personal information
Restricted Access: Records that have been sealed by court order, cases involving minors, and documents containing confidential information as defined by Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509

Certified divorce certificates, which provide official verification of a divorce decree, typically have more restricted access than general court records. Pursuant to Pennsylvania law, these certificates are generally available only to:

The parties to the divorce
Legal representatives with proper authorization
Individuals with a demonstrable legal interest

The Cambria County Court of Common Pleas balances the public's right to access government records with the privacy interests of individuals involved in divorce proceedings.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Cambria County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in Cambria County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The primary repository for divorce records is the Cambria County Prothonotary's Office, which maintains all civil court records for the county.

To obtain divorce records, individuals may follow these steps:

Gather necessary information about the divorce case, including:
- Full names of both parties (including maiden names if applicable)
- Approximate date of divorce filing or finalization
- Case number (if known)
Contact or visit the Cambria County Prothonotary's Office:

Cambria County Prothonotary's Office
Cambria County Courthouse
200 South Center Street, Suite 110
Ebensburg, PA 15931
814-472-1440
Cambria County Prothonotary

Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Complete a records request form, which requires:
- Requestor's contact information
- Case information as detailed above
- Purpose of the request
- Signature and date
Pay applicable fees:
- Search fee: $5.00 per name searched
- Copy fee: $0.50 per page
- Certification fee (if required): $5.00 per document
Allow processing time, which typically ranges from same-day service for in-person requests to 5-7 business days for mail requests.

For records dating back more than 20 years, requestors may need to contact the Pennsylvania State Archives, as older records may have been transferred from the county repository.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Cambria County Online?

Cambria County provides digital access to certain divorce record information through several online platforms. These electronic resources offer convenience but may provide limited information compared to in-person requests.

The primary online resources for accessing Cambria County divorce records include:

Cambria County Civil Court Online Portal
- Visit the CountySuite Online Portal
- Select "Civil Case Search" from the available options
- Enter search criteria (names, case numbers, or date ranges)
- Review basic case information displayed in search results
- Note that complete case files are not available for download; the system provides docket information only
Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania Web Portal
- Access the UJS Portal Case Search
- Select "Cambria County" from the jurisdiction dropdown
- Choose "Civil" as the case category
- Enter available search parameters
- Review docket information and case status
Pennsylvania Department of Health Vital Records
- For verification of divorce decrees only (not full case files)
- Visit the PA Department of Health Vital Records
- Complete the online application form
- Pay the required fee ($20.00)
- Provide proper identification

Users should be aware that online systems typically provide only basic case information and docket entries. Full divorce records, including pleadings, financial disclosures, and court orders, generally require in-person requests or formal written requests to the Prothonotary's Office.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Cambria County?

While most official divorce record requests in Cambria County involve fees, several options exist for accessing basic divorce information at no cost:

Public Access Terminals at the Courthouse
- The Cambria County Courthouse provides public access computer terminals where visitors may search basic case information without charge
- Located in the Prothonotary's Office, 200 South Center Street, Ebensburg
- Available during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-4:30 PM)
- While basic searches are free, printing documents from these terminals incurs standard copy fees
Cambria County Law Library
- Located within the Cambria County Courthouse
- Offers public access to legal resources and basic case information
- Staff cannot provide legal advice but can assist with navigating resources
- Available to the public during regular courthouse hours
Online Docket Information
- Basic case information can be viewed without charge on the UJS Portal
- Limited to docket entries and case status; does not include document images
- No registration or payment required for basic searches
Local Public Libraries
- Several public libraries in Cambria County offer free internet access
- Patrons may use library computers to access public court record websites
- Library staff may provide assistance with navigating online resources

It is important to note that while basic information may be accessible without fees, obtaining certified copies, complete case files, or official divorce certificates will require payment of established fees. Additionally, pursuant to Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509(d), certain administrative fees may be waived for individuals who demonstrate financial hardship through an approved in forma pauperis petition.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Cambria County

Divorce records in Cambria County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the entire legal process of marriage dissolution. These records are maintained by the Cambria County Prothonotary's Office in accordance with Pennsylvania law and typically include the following components:

Initial Filings
- Complaint for Divorce - The formal document initiating the divorce proceeding
- Verification - Signed statement affirming the truth of allegations in the complaint
- Notice to Defend - Information advising the respondent of their rights and obligations
- Proof of Service - Documentation showing the respondent received the divorce papers
Financial Documentation
- Income and Expense Statements
- Asset and Liability Inventories
- Tax Returns (when submitted as evidence)
- Property Valuations
- Pension and Retirement Account Information
Legal Proceedings
- Motions and Petitions filed by either party
- Responses and Answers to complaints and motions
- Court Orders and Judicial Decisions
- Hearing Transcripts (when prepared)
- Master's Reports (in cases where a divorce master was appointed)
Settlement Documents
- Property Settlement Agreements
- Custody Agreements (if children are involved)
- Child Support Calculations and Orders
- Alimony Determinations
Final Decree
- Divorce Decree - The official court order terminating the marriage
- Certificate of Divorce - Official documentation of the divorce finalization
- Name Change Orders (if applicable)

The comprehensiveness of divorce records varies significantly based on whether the divorce was contested or uncontested, the complexity of marital assets, and whether children were involved. Pursuant to 23 Pa.C.S. § 3323, the final decree must address all economic claims between the parties, including property division, alimony, and other financial matters.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Cambria County?

Individuals seeking official proof of divorce in Cambria County have several options for obtaining this documentation, depending on the level of detail and certification required.

For official proof of divorce, the following methods are available:

Certified Copy of Divorce Decree from Prothonotary's Office
- Visit or contact the Cambria County Prothonotary's Office:
Cambria County Prothonotary's Office
Cambria County Courthouse
200 South Center Street, Suite 110
Ebensburg, PA 15931
814-472-1440
Cambria County Prothonotary
- Complete a request form specifying the need for a certified copy
- Provide case information (names, approximate date, case number if known)
- Pay the certification fee ($5.00 per document plus $0.50 per page)
- Present valid photo identification
Divorce Verification Certificate from PA Department of Health
- For divorces finalized after 1964
- Complete the Application for Divorce Certificate
- Submit the application with required identification
- Pay the fee ($20.00 per certificate)
- Allow 15-20 business days for processing
Divorce Abstract from Cambria County Court of Common Pleas
- A condensed summary of divorce case information
- Request in writing or in person at the Prothonotary's Office
- Specify that an abstract is needed rather than full documentation
- Pay applicable fees ($5.00 for search plus certification fees)

For urgent needs, the Prothonotary's Office offers expedited service for an additional fee. Requestors should note that pursuant to the Pennsylvania Divorce Code, proof of divorce documentation is considered prima facie evidence of the facts stated therein and is generally accepted for legal purposes including remarriage, name changes, and benefits applications.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Cambria County?

While divorce proceedings in Cambria County are generally matters of public record, Pennsylvania law provides several mechanisms through which certain aspects of divorce cases may be kept confidential under specific circumstances.

The following provisions may apply to divorce confidentiality:

Sealing of Records by Court Order
- Parties may petition the court to seal all or portions of a divorce file
- Requires demonstration of compelling privacy interests that outweigh public access rights
- Governed by Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 1930.1
- Rarely granted except in extraordinary circumstances
Confidential Information and Documents
- Certain personal identifiers are automatically protected, including:
  - Social Security numbers
  - Financial account numbers
  - Minor children's names and dates of birth
  - Driver's license numbers
- These protections are mandated by Pennsylvania Public Access Policy
Domestic Violence Considerations
- Cases involving Protection From Abuse (PFA) orders may have enhanced confidentiality
- Address confidentiality may be granted to victims of domestic violence
- Special handling procedures apply under 23 Pa.C.S. § 6112
Alternative Dispute Resolution
- Mediation communications are generally confidential
- Settlement negotiations conducted through mediation receive greater privacy protection
- Final agreements, however, typically become part of the public record when incorporated into court orders

It is important to note that even when certain documents are protected from public view, basic case information—including parties' names, case numbers, and the fact that a divorce was filed—typically remains accessible through public docket searches. Complete confidentiality of an entire divorce proceeding is extremely rare and granted only in exceptional circumstances.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Cambria County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Cambria County varies significantly based on several factors, including the type of divorce filed, level of agreement between parties, and court caseload. The Cambria County Court of Common Pleas processes divorces according to Pennsylvania state law, which establishes different procedural timelines based on case circumstances.

Typical timeframes for Cambria County divorces include:

Mutual Consent Divorce (No-Fault)
- Minimum waiting period: 90 days after service of the complaint
- Typical completion time: 3-5 months
- Requirements: Both parties must file affidavits of consent
- Based on 23 Pa.C.S. § 3301(c)
Irretrievable Breakdown (No-Fault with Separation)
- Minimum separation period: 1 year
- Typical completion time after filing: 3-6 months
- Total time including separation: 15-18 months
- Based on 23 Pa.C.S. § 3301(d)
Fault-Based Divorce
- No minimum waiting period, but requires proof of fault grounds
- Typical completion time: 8-18 months
- Longer if contested or requiring extensive hearings
- Based on 23 Pa.C.S. § 3301(a)
Contested Divorces with Economic Claims
- Typical completion time: 12-24 months
- May involve appointment of a divorce master
- Requires inventory and appraisement of assets
- Discovery process adds significant time

According to the Cambria County Court of Common Pleas, factors that commonly extend divorce timelines include:

Disputes over property division
Child custody disagreements
Complex financial assets requiring valuation
Retirement and pension division issues
Requests for alimony or spousal support
Court scheduling constraints and continuances

The court encourages alternative dispute resolution methods, including mediation, which can significantly reduce the time to finalization when successful. Parties with legal representation typically experience more efficient processing than self-represented litigants.

How Long Does Cambria County Keep Divorce Records?

Cambria County maintains divorce records according to a structured retention schedule that complies with Pennsylvania state archival requirements. The duration of record retention varies based on the type of document and its historical or legal significance.

The retention schedule for divorce records in Cambria County includes:

Active Records (Recent Cases)
- Maintained by the Prothonotary's Office
- Readily accessible for public inspection (subject to confidentiality provisions)
- Typically kept in the courthouse for 7-10 years after case closure
- Governed by Pennsylvania Rule of Judicial Administration 509
Semi-Active Records (Intermediate Storage)
- Transferred to county records center
- Available upon request with longer retrieval time
- Typically stored for 10-20 years after case closure
- Maintained according to County Records Act, 16 P.S. § 13001-13006
Historical Records (Permanent Preservation)
- Final decrees and key case documents are preserved permanently
- May be transferred to Pennsylvania State Archives after 50 years
- Microfilmed or digitized for long-term preservation
- Maintained pursuant to Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission guidelines
Digital Records
- Electronic case management systems retain information indefinitely
- Basic case information remains searchable permanently
- Document images may be purged according to retention schedules
- Subject to Pennsylvania Electronic Records Management regulations

It is important to note that while some supporting documentation may be destroyed after the retention period expires, final divorce decrees are preserved permanently as vital records. The Cambria County Prothonotary's Office maintains a comprehensive index of all divorce cases, even after physical records have been transferred or destroyed, ensuring that basic case information remains accessible indefinitely.

How To Get a Divorce In Cambria County

Individuals seeking to initiate divorce proceedings in Cambria County must follow specific procedures established by the Pennsylvania Divorce Code and local court rules. The process varies depending on the grounds for divorce and whether the action is contested or uncontested.

The general procedure for obtaining a divorce in Cambria County includes:

Determine Eligibility and Grounds
- At least one spouse must have been a Pennsylvania resident for six months
- Select appropriate grounds: mutual consent, irretrievable breakdown, or fault-based
- Review requirements under 23 Pa.C.S. § 3301
Prepare and File Initial Documents
- Complete Complaint for Divorce
- Prepare Notice to Defend
- File with the Cambria County Prothonotary's Office:
Cambria County Prothonotary's Office
Cambria County Courthouse
200 South Center Street, Suite 110
Ebensburg, PA 15931
814-472-1440
Cambria County Prothonotary
- Pay filing fee (approximately $200.00) or submit in forma pauperis petition if unable to afford fees
Serve the Complaint
- Arrange for service on the other spouse
- Options include sheriff's service, certified mail, or acceptance of service
- File proof of service with the Prothonotary
- Service requirements detailed in Pennsylvania Rules of Civil Procedure 1930.4
Complete Mandatory Waiting Periods
- 90-day cooling off period for mutual consent divorces
- One-year separation for irretrievable breakdown divorces
- No waiting period for fault-based divorces, but requires proof of grounds
File Additional Documentation
- For mutual consent: Affidavits of Consent after 90 days
- For irretrievable breakdown: Affidavit under Section 3301(d)
- For economic claims: Income and Expense Statement, Inventory and Appraisement
Attend Hearings (If Required)
- Uncontested divorces may not require hearings
- Contested matters may require multiple court appearances
- Economic claims may be referred to a divorce master
Obtain Final Decree
- Submit proposed Divorce Decree
- Include any settlement agreements or court orders on economic issues
- Judge reviews and signs decree if all requirements are met

For divorces involving children, additional requirements apply, including mandatory parenting classes and development of a parenting plan. The Cambria County Court of Common Pleas provides resources for self-represented litigants, though legal representation is strongly recommended, particularly for complex cases.

How To Get Divorce Papers In Cambria County

Individuals seeking to initiate divorce proceedings in Cambria County have several options for obtaining the necessary legal forms and documentation. The availability of divorce papers through various channels ensures accessibility for both represented and self-represented litigants.

The following methods are available for obtaining divorce papers in Cambria County:

Cambria County Prothonotary's Office
- Visit in person to obtain paper forms:
Cambria County Prothonotary's Office
Cambria County Courthouse
200 South Center Street, Suite 110
Ebensburg, PA 15931
814-472-1440
Cambria County Prothonotary
- Basic divorce packet available for a nominal fee
- Staff can provide procedural information but not legal advice
- Forms available during regular business hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-4:30 PM
Cambria County Law Library
- Located within the Cambria County Courthouse
- Reference copies of divorce forms available
- Legal research materials to assist with form completion
- Public access computers for accessing online resources
Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Website
- Access standardized state forms through the PA Courts Self-Help Center
- Download fillable PDF forms at no cost
- Includes detailed instructions for form completion
- Available 24/7 for convenient access
Laurel Legal Services (for Income-Eligible Individuals)
- Provides assistance to low-income residents
- May offer free divorce forms and guidance
Laurel Legal Services, Inc.
225-227 Franklin Street, Suite 400
Johnstown, PA 15901
814-536-8917
Laurel Legal Services
Private Attorneys
- Legal representation includes preparation of all required documents
- Attorneys ensure forms are properly completed and filed
- Cambria County Bar Association can provide referrals

The basic divorce packet typically includes:

Complaint for Divorce
Notice to Defend
Verification
Certificate of Compliance
Proof of Service forms
Affidavit of Consent (for mutual consent divorces)
Waiver of Notice forms
Praecipe to Transmit Record
Divorce Decree template

For more complex situations involving economic claims, child custody, or support issues, additional specialized forms may be required. Self-represented litigants are encouraged to review the divorce proceedings guide provided by the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania for comprehensive information on form requirements.