Replacement for a Divorce Certificate in Easy-to-Read Language

Have you lost your divorce decree?

If so, you can get a new divorce decree.

To do so, you must file an application.

• What is a divorce decree? 
• When will you receive a replacement? 
• What do you need to apply? 
• Where can you submit the application? 
• How much does the replacement cost? 
• Where can you get help?

A divorce decree is a document issued by the court.

The divorce decree states:

The marriage has ended.

You are now divorced. 

A divorce decree is also called:

• divorce judgment
• divorce decree.

Have you lost your divorce decree?

Or can’t you find your divorce decree anymore?

In that case, you can obtain a new copy. 

This new document is called:
Certified Copy.

The certified copy is just as valid
as the original divorce decree.

The application can be informal.

That means:
You can simply write the application.

There are no set rules for the text.

You must file the petition with the court
that granted your divorce. 

This is usually:

• a local court
• or a family court. 

Important:
Only this court has the original copy of your divorce decree.

The court has collected documents related to your divorce.

These documents are called a case file.

The case file is a binder containing important documents.

For example:
letters, petitions, and the divorce decree. 

There is a number on the case file.

This number is called the case number. 

You’ll often find the case reference number:

• on old letters from the court
• or on letters from your lawyer. 
  

If you know the case number,
tell the court the number.

This will help the court find the case.

The court will make a copy of the divorce decree.

Each page costs 0.50 euros.

The court will tell you exactly
how much you have to pay.

Do you have questions about replacing your divorce decree?

Or are you unsure which court has jurisdiction?

If so, you can call: 

• the court
• or at your city’s civil affairs office

A lawyer can also help you.