How Do I Get my Certificate of Divorce?

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Revision as of 18:52, 11 February 2016 by Audrey Jun (talk | contribs)
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You do not need a Certificate of Divorce to make your divorce “legal” or “official”. If you ever have to show legal proof of your divorce, you can use your divorce order. However, you can use the Certificate of Divorce to show legal proof of your divorce to third parties (for example, when you remarry) without giving away all the details in your divorce order.

When can I get my Certificate?[edit]

31 days after the divorce order is made, and the divorce has become final, it is possible to obtain a Certificate of Divorce - this is Supreme Court Family Form F56.

How can I apply for it?[edit]

There are a few different ways to apply. Note that there may be slight differences in process between different registries in BC, but the following generally applies:

In person - If you have a lawyer[edit]

The lawyer will go to the Supreme Court Registry where the divorce is filed<ref name="divfiled">test</ref>with:

  1. A copy of the divorce order (make a photocopy of the one you have and keep the original);
  2. A completed Requisition (Form F17);
  3. A completed Certificate of Divorce (Form F56); and
  4. $40 for each certificate.

In person - If you don't have a lawyer[edit]

You, or a friend on your behalf, can go in person to the Supreme Court Registry where the divorce is filed with:

  1. Your court File Number<ref name=divfiled />;
  2. A completed Requisition (Form F17) - some Registries may have copies available at the counter;
  3. $40 for each certificate. Cash, Interac, and Personal Cheques with 2 pieces of ID are accepted;
  4. It is helpful if you have a copy of your Divorce Order, but it is not required<ref name=divfiled2 />If your divorce was finalized in BC prior to the year retained by the Supreme Court Registry where your divorce order was issued, you may be required to produce a copy of your Divorce Order before applying for a Certificate of Divorce. You can request a copy of your divorce order in writing by email, regular mail or fax to BC Archives.</ref>. Providing a copy may expedite the court registry's ability to process your request. It is a good idea to bring ID, like your driver's license or passport.

Applying by Snail Mail[edit]

You can also make a written request by sending a letter to the Supreme Court Registry where the divorce order is filed. Include with your letter:

  1. Your court File Number<ref name=divfiled /> (or the full names of both you and your ex-spouse as they appear on the Divorce Order);
  2. It is helpful if you include a copy of your Divorce Order, but not required**. Providing a copy may expedite the court registry's ability to process your request;
  3. A self-addressed return envelope;
  4. Your telephone number;
  5. A cheque or money order for $50 in Canadian dollars ($40 for each certificate + $10 mailing fee - if you want 2 certificates, you'd send $90) payable to the Minister of Finance. There is a $30 service fee for any dishonoured cheques.
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This information applies to British Columbia, Canada. Last reviewed for legal accuracy by Audrey Jun, February 11, 2016.



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