Find Pemiscot County Divorce Decree
Pemiscot County divorce decree records are held at the Circuit Clerk's office in Caruthersville, Missouri. The county was formed in 1851 from New Madrid County. Its name comes from the Native American word "pemiska," meaning "liquid mud," which described the marshy wetlands in the area. Court and divorce records date back to 1882. Whether you need a certified copy of a decree or want to check on a case, the clerk's office is the main resource. This page walks through how to find and request Pemiscot County divorce records.
Quick Facts
Pemiscot County Divorce Decree Overview
The Pemiscot County Circuit Clerk holds every divorce decree filed in this part of southeast Missouri. The clerk's office is the only place to get the actual decree document. A divorce decree is the court's final order that dissolves a marriage. It names both spouses, gives the case number, and states when the judge signed it. The decree also sets terms for child custody, support, visitation, property division, and spousal maintenance if any apply.
Pemiscot County was created on February 19, 1851, from New Madrid County. Court and divorce records go back to 1882. The Recorder of Deeds has marriage records from 1851. Missouri uses a no-fault system for divorce. Under RSMo 452.305, either spouse can file by stating the marriage is irretrievably broken. The court does not have to find that one party did something wrong.
Reach the Pemiscot County Circuit Clerk at PO Box 329, Caruthersville, MO 63830, or call (573) 333-0175.
Searching Pemiscot County Divorce Records
You can search for Pemiscot County divorce cases on Missouri Case.net for free. This state-run system covers all circuit courts. Select Pemiscot County as the court location and enter a party name, case number, or date range. Use "Family/Domestic" as the case type to filter results to divorce and custody matters. Case.net displays party names, case status, and hearing information. It does not show the full text of the decree, but it confirms whether a case was filed and gives you the case number.
For the actual decree, you need the circuit clerk. Visit the courthouse in Caruthersville, send a mail request, or call the office. Include names of both parties and the approximate year of the divorce. A per-page copy fee applies. The genealogy guide for Pemiscot County provides additional context on what records the courthouse holds.
How to File for Divorce in Pemiscot County
Filing for divorce in Pemiscot County requires at least one spouse to have been a Missouri resident for 90 days. The petition for dissolution is filed with the circuit court in Caruthersville. It must state that the marriage is irretrievably broken. A 30-day waiting period follows under RSMo 452.320.
Self-represented filers use forms approved by the Missouri Supreme Court. These cover the petition, a parenting plan if children are involved, and financial statements. The clerk's office can direct you to the correct forms but does not give legal advice. Filing fees apply. Contact the clerk at (573) 333-0175 for the current amount. After the judge signs the final decree, the clerk records it permanently. Modifications to custody or support can be sought later under RSMo 452.370 if circumstances change significantly.
This genealogy resource lists the types of records at the Pemiscot County courthouse, including court and divorce records from 1882 and marriage records from 1851.
State Divorce Records and Pemiscot County
The Missouri Bureau of Vital Records issues certified statements relating to divorce. These statements list the names of both spouses, the divorce date, and the county. Nothing more. They do not include custody, support, or property terms. If you need the full decree from a Pemiscot County divorce, the circuit clerk in Caruthersville is where to go.
Each certified statement costs $15.00. You can order by mail, in person at 930 Wildwood Drive in Jefferson City, or through VitalChek. The state has recorded divorces since July 1, 1948. For Pemiscot County divorces before that date, the county clerk has records back to 1882. The Missouri state portal explains when each type of document is the right choice.
The Missouri Association of Counties page provides contact information for the Pemiscot County Circuit Clerk and other county offices.
Pemiscot County Divorce Decree Contents
A Pemiscot County divorce decree names both spouses and gives the case number and court information. The grounds for dissolution are stated. If children are involved, the decree includes a parenting plan covering custody, visitation, and child support per RSMo 452.340. Property division follows RSMo 452.330, where the court splits assets and debts based on several factors including the length of the marriage and each spouse's financial situation. Spousal maintenance may be ordered when appropriate.
Some decrees also address retirement accounts, insurance coverage, or the family home. Each case is different, so each decree reflects the specific facts and agreements (or court rulings) from that particular divorce. Certified copies carry the clerk's seal and are accepted for legal purposes.
Note: Pemiscot County borders New Madrid County and Mississippi County, so check you have the right jurisdiction before making a request.
Nearby Counties
If the divorce was filed in a different county, contact that county's circuit clerk. Counties near Pemiscot include: