Divorce records in Scott County, Iowa, are available through several channels. ScottIACourt.us allows you to quickly find public divorce information related to this county. In addition to this online tool, complete court records are stored at the District Court that issued the ruling. The Clerk of District Court issues copies of decrees and related documents. To obtain state-level divorce certificates, you can contact the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services — Vital Records.
Scott Divorce Records Search
In Scott County, divorce records are created and stored by two main institutions. The District Court Clerk's Office at the Scott County Courthouse maintains the complete court case — from the initial petition to the final decree. This includes:
- Dissolution of marriage decree
- Settlement agreements
- Custody and child support orders
- Statements of parties, motions, and court orders
At the state level, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services has been keeping divorce certificates since 1906. These certificates are a shortened document that confirms the fact of divorce but does not include details of property distribution or custody terms.
Scott County court records are generally public according to Iowa Code Chapter 22. Exceptions are cases sealed by court order.
Where Divorce Records Are Filed in Scott
Iowa does not have separate family courts. All divorce cases (officially — dissolution of marriage) are handled by the district court — Iowa District Court. Scott County is part of the Seventh Judicial District. Once a judge signs the final decree, the document remains on file with the Clerk of District Court at the Scott County Courthouse.
If you need the complete court file — the text of the decree, property agreement, custody decision — contact the district court clerk. To search cases online, use the Search Court Records function on the Iowa Judicial Branch website.
The divorce certificate (a short form confirming the fact) is stored separately — in the Vital Records department at Iowa HHS. You can order it by mail or online through the Vital Records page.
Where to Go Depending on Your Needs
| What You Need | Where to Go |
|---|---|
| Complete divorce decree, property agreement, custody decision | Scott County Clerk of District Court |
| Divorce certificate (short form) | Iowa HHS — Vital Records |
| Online court case search | Iowa Judicial Branch — Search Court Records |
Divorce Record Search Fees, Copy Costs, and Processing Times in Scott
| Service | Fee | Typical Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Certified copy of divorce decree (Clerk of District Court) | $20.00 | 1–5 business days for in-person requests |
| Uncertified copy of court document (per page) | $0.50 | 1–3 business days |
| Divorce certificate (Iowa Vital Records — standard request) | $20.00 | 2–6 weeks by mail |
| Search in Vital Records database (per additional name/year) | $20.00 | Included in standard time |
| Electronic document filing (eFile filing fee) | Depends on the type of filing | Processed within 1–2 business days |