Big Stone County Divorce Decree Search
Divorce decree records in Big Stone County are filed at the courthouse in Ortonville. The court is part of the 8th Judicial District and handles all family law cases for the county. Denise L. Kling is the Court Administrator. Big Stone County is one of the smallest counties in Minnesota by population, sitting on the western border along Big Stone Lake. Despite its small size, the court follows the same state rules and fee schedules as every other county. You can search for cases online or visit the courthouse to get copies of a divorce decree.
Big Stone County Overview
Big Stone County District Court
The Big Stone County Courthouse is at 20 2nd Street SE in Ortonville. All divorce decree records are on file here. The clerk handles records requests, filings, and copies. Because this is a small county, the staff can usually help you quickly.
You can reach the court at (320) 839-2536. Big Stone County is part of the 8th Judicial District, which covers counties in western Minnesota. Court hours follow the standard weekday schedule. If you plan to visit, calling ahead is a good idea. The staff can check if your file is available and have copies ready when you arrive.
| Court | Big Stone County District Court |
|---|---|
| Address | 20 2nd Street SE Ortonville, MN 56278 |
| Phone | (320) 839-2536 |
| Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM |
| Website | mncourts.gov - Big Stone County |
| Administrator | Denise L. Kling |
How to Find Big Stone County Divorce Records
Start with MCRO. The free search tool at publicaccess.courts.state.mn.us covers Big Stone County cases filed after July 1, 2015. Enter a name or case number and you will see case status, filing dates, and docket entries. The search is free and open to anyone.
For actual documents, you need to contact the court. Visit the courthouse in Ortonville or send a written request by mail. Include the case number or both party names. The copy request page on mncourts.gov has details on how to send a mail request. The court will tell you the cost before processing your order.
Big Stone County Divorce Decree Costs
Fees are the same as the rest of the state. Uncertified copies are free. Certified copies cost $14 each. Exemplified copies are $14. Both together run $28.
Filing a new divorce costs about $400 for the petitioner. That is the standard across Minnesota. If you cannot pay, you can request a fee waiver. The court reviews your finances and decides. Other costs may come up during the case, like service of process fees and class fees if children are involved. Under Minn. Stat. § 518.552, the court can order one spouse to help pay the other's costs in some situations.
Note: Big Stone County follows the same state fee schedule as all other Minnesota courts for divorce decree copies.
Filing for Divorce in Big Stone County
At least one spouse must have lived in Minnesota for 180 days before filing. Under Minn. Stat. § 518.09, you file in the county where either spouse lives. If that is Big Stone County, you go to the courthouse in Ortonville.
Minnesota is a no-fault state. The only ground for divorce is irretrievable breakdown under Minn. Stat. § 518.06. You file a Petition for Dissolution and serve the other spouse. If both agree, the case can be quick. Contested cases require hearings. Property is divided fairly under Minn. Stat. § 518.58.
The judge signs the Judgment and Decree to finalize things. This document is the official divorce record. The court keeps the original in Big Stone County and you can request certified copies.
Decree Record Contents
A Big Stone County divorce decree includes the names of both parties, the date the marriage took place, and the date the court ended it. The decree covers property division, custody arrangements, child support, and spousal maintenance if ordered. It is the official record that proves the divorce happened.
The full case file at the courthouse has more. You may find the original petition, financial affidavits, and any motions or orders from the case. Under Minn. Stat. § 518.17, custody decisions are based on what is best for the child. The decree reflects that analysis. Most records are public, though some financial documents have limits on access.
Big Stone County Records Screenshot
The Minnesota Court Records Online system allows you to search for cases in Big Stone County at publicaccess.courts.state.mn.us.
This screenshot shows the MCRO search tool that you can use to find Big Stone County divorce cases online.
Legal Resources for Big Stone County
The 8th Judicial District has resources for Big Stone County residents. Check the district page for self-help info, court forms, and referrals. Legal aid groups serving western Minnesota may help with divorce cases if you qualify based on income.
Court staff in Ortonville can answer basic questions about filing and records. They will tell you what forms you need and how to submit them. For legal advice, you need a lawyer. The Minnesota State Bar Association can refer you to family law attorneys in the area.
Nearby Counties
Make sure you are filing in the right county. These counties are near Big Stone County.