Maui County Divorce Records

What Are Maui County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Maui County are official legal documents that provide documentation of the dissolution of marriage between two individuals. These records are maintained by the Family Court of the Second Circuit, which has jurisdiction over Maui County. Pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes § 580-1, divorce proceedings in Hawaii are formally known as "divorce from the bond of matrimony" or dissolution of marriage.

Divorce records typically consist of several components:

• Divorce petitions or complaints
• Court orders and judgments
• Divorce decrees
• Property settlement agreements
• Child custody and support arrangements
• Financial affidavits
• Transcripts of court proceedings

These documents serve multiple important purposes for individuals and government agencies, including:

• Providing legal proof of marital status change
• Establishing eligibility for remarriage
• Supporting legal name changes
• Verifying eligibility for Social Security benefits
• Documenting status for loan applications
• Establishing status for immigration matters
• Determining inheritance rights

The Family Court Division of Maui County processes and maintains these records in accordance with state law. Divorce records are part of the vital records system that documents major life events for residents of Maui County.

Are Maui County Divorce Records Public?

Maui County divorce records have a complex public access status that varies depending on the specific document type and information contained therein. Generally, court divorce case files are considered public records under the Uniform Information Practices Act (UIPA), Hawaii's public records law. However, significant exceptions and restrictions apply.

The public accessibility of divorce records in Maui County is governed by several legal frameworks:

• Hawaii Revised Statutes § 92F-12 establishes categories of government records that must be disclosed
• Hawaii Court Records Rules govern access to judicial records
• Hawaii Family Court Rules provide specific guidance for family court proceedings

While the general case information may be publicly accessible, certain components of divorce files receive heightened privacy protection:

• Financial affidavits and statements
• Records containing children's personal information
• Allegations of domestic violence or abuse
• Medical and psychological evaluations
• Social security numbers and other personal identifiers

Certified divorce certificates, which provide official verification of a divorce, have restricted access. Pursuant to state regulations, these documents are available only to:

• The individuals named in the record (former spouses)
• Immediate family members with direct interest
• Legal representatives with proper authorization
• Government agencies for official purposes

Members of the public seeking divorce record information must navigate these access restrictions when submitting requests to the appropriate county offices.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Maui County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in Maui County may utilize several official channels to locate these documents. The appropriate method depends on the specific type of divorce record needed and the requester's relationship to the case.

For certified copies of divorce certificates (official verification of divorce):

1. Submit a request to the Hawaii Department of Health's Vital Records Office
2. Complete the official certificate request form
3. Provide proper identification and documentation of eligibility to receive the record
4. Pay the required fee ($10.00 for the first copy, $4.00 for each additional copy)
5. Submit the request by mail or in person

Hawaii Department of Health - Vital Records
1250 Punchbowl Street, Room 103
Honolulu, HI 96813
808-586-4533
Hawaii Vital Records

For divorce case files and court records:

1. Contact the Family Court of the Second Circuit (Maui County)
2. Complete a records request form specifying the case information
3. Provide proper identification
4. Pay applicable search and copy fees
5. Submit the request in person or by mail

Family Court of the Second Circuit
2145 Main Street
Wailuku, HI 96793
808-244-2969
Family Court Division

For general public records requests:

1. Submit a UIPA Records Request through the Maui County online portal
2. Specify the records being requested with as much detail as possible
3. Pay applicable fees for search, review, and copying
4. Allow time for processing according to statutory timelines

Maui County Clerk's Office
200 South High Street
Wailuku, HI 96793
808-270-7748
Office of the County Clerk

Requesters should be prepared to provide specific information including names of the parties, approximate date of divorce, and case number (if known) to facilitate the search process.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Maui County Online?

Maui County residents and authorized individuals can access certain divorce record information through several online platforms. While comprehensive divorce files are not fully available online, the following digital resources provide valuable access points:

The Hawaii State Judiciary's eCourt Kokua system offers online access to basic case information:

1. Visit the Hawaii State Judiciary Records Search portal
2. Select "Family Court" as the court type
3. Enter search criteria (names of parties, case number, or filing date range)
4. Review the basic case information displayed
5. Note that only case summaries are available online; full documents require in-person requests

For certified divorce certificates, the Hawaii Department of Health offers an online ordering system:

1. Access the Hawaii Vital Records Online Ordering System
2. Create an account or log in to an existing account
3. Select "Divorce Certificate" as the record type
4. Enter the required information about the divorce (names, date, location)
5. Provide proof of eligibility to receive the record
6. Pay the required fee using a credit card
7. Choose delivery method (mail or in-person pickup)

For general public records requests, Maui County maintains an online UIPA Records Request portal:

1. Visit the UIPA Public Records Request page
2. Click the "Submit a Request" button
3. Create an account or log in
4. Complete the online form with specific details about the divorce records sought
5. Submit the request and track its status through the portal

Users should note that online access to divorce records is limited by privacy laws and court rules. Sensitive information and complete case files typically require in-person requests with proper identification and authorization.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Maui County?

Members of the public seeking no-cost access to divorce records in Maui County have limited but viable options. While certified copies and extensive searches typically involve fees, the following methods may provide free access to basic divorce record information:

In-person inspection at the courthouse:

1. Visit the Family Court of the Second Circuit in Wailuku
2. Request to view publicly available divorce case files
3. Provide case information to court clerks to locate the specific records
4. Review the non-confidential portions of the file in the designated public viewing area
5. Note that while viewing is free, copying documents incurs standard fees

Family Court of the Second Circuit
2145 Main Street
Wailuku, HI 96793
808-244-2969
Family Courts

Basic case information through eCourt Kokua:

1. Use public access terminals at the courthouse or public libraries
2. Access the judiciary's electronic case management system
3. Search for basic case information using party names or case numbers
4. View limited case summaries and docket information at no cost

Public library research resources:

1. Visit the Hawaii State Public Library System locations in Maui County
2. Access newspaper archives that may contain public notices of divorce filings
3. Utilize library computers to access free public records databases
4. Consult with reference librarians for assistance with public records research

Hawaii State Public Library - Wailuku Branch
251 High Street
Wailuku, HI 96793
808-243-5766
Hawaii State Public Library System

Researchers should be aware that while basic information may be available without charge, comprehensive divorce records typically require payment of statutory fees. Additionally, access to confidential portions of divorce files remains restricted regardless of fee payment.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Maui County

Divorce records in Maui County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the legal dissolution of marriage. These records contain various components that document the proceedings from initiation through final judgment. Pursuant to Hawaii Family Court Rules, divorce files typically include:

The petition for divorce (complaint):

• Names and addresses of both parties
• Date and location of marriage
• Grounds for divorce under Hawaii law
• Statement regarding residency requirements
• Information about minor children (if applicable)
• Requested relief (property division, support, custody)

Summons and proof of service:

• Official notice to the respondent about the divorce action
• Documentation showing proper legal notification was provided

Financial disclosure statements:

• Income information for both parties
• Asset and liability declarations
• Property valuations
• Retirement account information
• Insurance policies

Child-related documents (when applicable):

• Parenting plans
• Child support calculations
• Custody and visitation arrangements
• Educational and healthcare provisions

Court orders and judgments:

• Temporary orders during proceedings
• Final divorce decree
• Property division determinations
• Spousal support (alimony) awards
• Child custody and support orders

Settlement agreements:

• Negotiated terms between parties
• Mediation outcomes
• Stipulations on contested issues

Procedural documents:

• Hearing notices and minutes
• Motions filed by either party
• Responses to motions
• Affidavits and sworn statements
• Transcripts of proceedings

The final divorce decree serves as the official judgment that legally terminates the marriage and establishes the rights and responsibilities of both parties going forward. This document is particularly important as it provides legal proof of the marriage dissolution for various administrative and legal purposes.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Maui County?

Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Maui County have several options for obtaining this documentation. The appropriate method depends on the specific purpose for which the proof is needed and the level of detail required.

For certified divorce certificates (most commonly accepted proof):

1. Submit a request to the Hawaii Department of Health's Vital Records Office
2. Complete the official certificate application form
3. Provide proper identification (government-issued photo ID)
4. Demonstrate eligibility to receive the record (parties to the divorce, immediate family with direct interest, or authorized representative)
5. Pay the required fee ($10.00 for first copy, $4.00 for each additional copy)
6. Submit request by mail, online, or in person

Hawaii Department of Health - Vital Records
1250 Punchbowl Street, Room 103
Honolulu, HI 96813
808-586-4533
Hawaii Vital Records

For certified copies of the divorce decree:

1. Contact the Family Court of the Second Circuit where the divorce was granted
2. Complete a request form for certified copies
3. Provide case information (names, approximate date, case number if known)
4. Present valid identification
5. Pay the certification fee ($2.00 per certification plus copying fees)
6. Submit the request in person or by mail

Family Court of the Second Circuit
2145 Main Street
Wailuku, HI 96793
808-244-2969
Family Court Forms for Maui

For verification letters (alternative proof):

1. Request a verification letter from the Department of Health
2. Provide basic information about the divorce (names, date, location)
3. Pay the verification letter fee ($5.00)
4. Receive a letter confirming the divorce record exists

Requesters should note that processing times vary based on the method of request and current departmental workloads. Expedited service may be available for additional fees in certain urgent situations as determined by the respective agencies.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Maui County?

While divorce proceedings in Maui County are generally matters of public record, Hawaii law provides several mechanisms through which certain aspects of divorce cases may be kept confidential. The confidentiality of divorce records is governed by Hawaii Court Records Rules and specific provisions of family law statutes.

Circumstances under which divorce records may be confidential include:

Sealed records by court order:

• Parties may petition the court to seal all or portions of the divorce file
• The judge must find compelling privacy interests that outweigh the public's right to access
• Sealing orders specify which documents are restricted from public view
• Even sealed records remain accessible to the parties and their attorneys

Automatically confidential components:

• Financial affidavits and statements
• Income tax returns
• Medical and psychological evaluations
• Records containing children's personal information
• Social security numbers and other personal identifiers
• Allegations of domestic violence when protective orders are in place

Redacted information:

• Sensitive personal information may be redacted from publicly accessible documents
• Parties may request specific redactions when filing documents
• Court clerks routinely redact certain identifiers before making records available

Alternative dispute resolution records:

• Mediation communications and records
• Settlement negotiations
• Collaborative divorce process documents

To request confidentiality for divorce proceedings, parties must:

1. File a motion with the Family Court requesting confidentiality
2. Demonstrate specific reasons why public access would cause harm
3. Propose the scope of confidentiality (specific documents or entire case)
4. Obtain a court order specifying which records are confidential

Pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes § 571-84, which addresses confidentiality of records, the court balances privacy interests against the presumption of public access when determining whether to grant confidentiality requests.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Maui County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Maui County varies significantly based on several factors, including case complexity, level of agreement between parties, and current court caseloads. The Family Court of the Second Circuit processes divorces according to procedural timelines established by Hawaii family law.

Uncontested divorces (mutual agreement on all issues):

• Minimum waiting period: 6-8 weeks from filing to finalization
• Required documentation processing: 2-4 weeks
• Court review and approval: 2-4 weeks
• Total typical timeframe: 2-3 months

Contested divorces (disagreement on one or more issues):

• Initial filing and response period: 20-30 days
• Discovery phase: 2-6 months
• Settlement negotiations: 1-3 months
• Pre-trial conferences: 1-2 months
• Trial (if necessary): 1-2 days (scheduling may add 3-6 months)
• Post-trial motions and final decree: 1-2 months
• Total typical timeframe: 9-18 months

Simplified divorces (no children, limited assets):

• Expedited processing available
• Reduced documentation requirements
• Total typical timeframe: 6-10 weeks

Factors that may extend the divorce timeline include:

• Child custody disputes requiring evaluations
• Complex property division requiring appraisals
• Business valuation proceedings
• Retirement account division requiring QDROs
• High-conflict cases with multiple motions
• Court calendar congestion
• Continuances requested by either party

According to statistics from the Hawaii State Judiciary Annual Report, the median time from filing to disposition for divorce cases in the Second Circuit is approximately 4.5 months, though individual cases may vary significantly from this average.

Hawaii law requires a minimum 30-day waiting period after service of the divorce complaint before a divorce can be finalized, even in cases with complete agreement between parties.

How Long Does Maui County Keep Divorce Records?

Maui County maintains divorce records according to a structured retention schedule established by Hawaii state law and judiciary policies. The retention periods vary based on the type of record and its historical or legal significance.

Court case files for divorces:

• Complete case files: Permanent retention
• Exhibits and evidence: Minimum 10 years after case closure
• Audio recordings of proceedings: 10 years
• Transcripts (when created): Permanent retention

Pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statutes § 602-5.5, which addresses court records management, the judiciary maintains permanent archives of significant legal documents, including divorce decrees and judgments.

Vital records (divorce certificates):

• Original certificates: Permanent retention by Department of Health
• Index of divorces: Permanent retention
• Supporting documentation: Minimum 10 years

Administrative records related to divorce cases:

• Docket books and case indexes: Permanent retention
• Statistical reports: Permanent retention
• Routine administrative correspondence: 3-7 years

Digital records retention:

• Electronic case management system data: Permanent retention
• Scanned documents: Follow same schedule as paper originals
• Backup systems maintained according to judiciary IT policies

While most substantive divorce records are maintained permanently, access to older records may require additional processing time as they may be stored in off-site archives or older format systems. Records from before 1980 may be available only in microfilm or paper format, necessitating manual retrieval processes.

The Hawaii State Archives, in cooperation with the judiciary, maintains historical court records, including divorce proceedings of significant historical or precedential value, ensuring long-term preservation of these important legal documents.

How To Get a Divorce In Maui County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Maui County must follow specific procedures established by Hawaii family law. The divorce process, known formally as dissolution of marriage, involves several key steps:

Establish eligibility:

• Either spouse must have been domiciled or physically present in Hawaii for at least six months
• The complaint must be filed in the circuit where either spouse resides
• Military personnel stationed in Hawaii for at least three months qualify as residents

Determine the appropriate divorce type:

• Uncontested (both parties agree on all issues)
• Contested (disagreement on one or more issues)
• Default (respondent does not participate)
• Simplified (no children, limited assets)

Obtain and complete required forms:

• Complaint for Divorce
• Summons
• Matrimonial Action Information
• Income and Expense Statement
• Asset and Debt Statement
• Child Support Guidelines (if applicable)
• Parenting Plan (if applicable)

Family Court of the Second Circuit
2145 Main Street
Wailuku, HI 96793
808-244-2969
Family Court Forms for Maui

File the divorce complaint:

1. Submit completed forms to the Family Court clerk
2. Pay the filing fee ($215 for divorce without children, $265 with children)
3. Fee waivers available for qualifying low-income individuals
4. Receive case number and filing confirmation

Serve the divorce papers:

1. Provide copies to spouse through authorized methods:
   • Personal service by sheriff or process server
   • Certified mail with return receipt
   • Publication (if spouse cannot be located)
2. File proof of service with the court

Proceed based on case type:

• Uncontested: Submit divorce decree for judge's approval
• Contested: Attend temporary orders hearing, discovery, settlement conference, and trial if necessary
• Default: Request default judgment after waiting period

Finalize the divorce:

1. Submit final divorce decree and related documents
2. Attend final hearing if required
3. Receive judge's signature on decree
4. File decree with court clerk
5. Obtain certified copies of the decree

Hawaii is a no-fault divorce state, meaning couples may divorce based on the grounds that the marriage is "irretrievably broken" without proving misconduct. Alternatively, couples may cite legal separation of two or more years as grounds for divorce.

How To Get Divorce Papers In Maui County

Individuals initiating or responding to divorce proceedings in Maui County can obtain the necessary legal forms through several official channels. The Family Court of the Second Circuit provides standardized forms that comply with Hawaii family law requirements.

Self-help resources at the courthouse:

1. Visit the Family Court Service Center
2. Request the appropriate divorce packet based on circumstances
3. Receive guidance on form completion from court staff
4. Pay nominal fees for form packets if applicable

Family Court of the Second Circuit
2145 Main Street
Wailuku, HI 96793
808-244-2969
Family Court Division

Online form access:

1. Visit the Hawaii State Judiciary website
2. Navigate to the Family Court Forms section
3. Select the appropriate forms based on circumstances:
   • Divorce with children
   • Divorce without children
   • Uncontested divorce
   • Response to divorce complaint
4. Download and print forms at no cost

Family Court Forms for Maui

Legal assistance programs:

1. Contact the Maui County Bar Association for referrals
2. Inquire about reduced-fee legal services
3. Schedule consultation with volunteer attorneys during legal aid clinics
4. Receive assistance with form preparation and review

Legal Aid Society of Hawaii - Maui Office
24 North Church Street, Suite 401
Wailuku, HI 96793
808-244-3731
Legal Aid Society of Hawaii

Required forms typically include:

• Complaint for Divorce (initiating document)
• Summons to Answer Complaint
• Matrimonial Action Information Sheet
• Income and Expense Statement
• Asset and Debt Statement
• Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (if applicable)
• Parenting Plan (if applicable)
• Certificate of Divorce (for Department of Health)

Individuals with complex cases involving significant assets, business interests, or contested custody matters may benefit from consulting with an attorney to ensure proper completion of specialized forms that may be required in addition to the standard divorce packet.

Lookup Divorce Records in Maui County

UIPA Public Records Request

Office of the County Clerk

Hawaii Vital Records Office

Hawaii Vital Records Online Portal

Hawaii Judiciary Court Records Search

Maui County Family Court Division

Family Court Forms for Maui County

Hawaii Family Courts Information