Divorce Courts in Jefferson County, AL
Court Name | Location | Phone Number | Working Hours | Presiding Judge(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Jefferson County Circuit Court – Domestic Relations Division | 2124 7th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203 | (205) 325-5400 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Mon–Fri | Judge Patricia Stephens (Presiding Domestic Relations), Judge Nakita Blocton, Judge Agnes Chappell, Judge Anne Durward |
Jefferson County Circuit Court – Bessemer Justice Center | 1851 2nd Ave N, Bessemer, AL 35020 | (205) 497-8510 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Mon–Fri | Judge Debra Winston |
Jefferson County Family Court – Birmingham | 120 2nd Ct N, Birmingham, AL 35204 | (205) 325-5491 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Mon–Fri | Judge Janine Hunt-Hilliard (Presiding Family Court) |
Jefferson County Family Court – Bessemer | 1801 3rd Ave N, Bessemer, AL 35020 | (205) 744-3500 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Mon–Fri | Judge Lorraine Pringle |
Jefferson County Divorce Filing Fee
The average base filing fee in Jefferson County for a divorce is approximately $325. The service fees is typically $35 per defendant if using sheriff’s service. You can contact the Jefferson County Circuit Court Clerk’s office at (205) 325-5400 to get more accurate information.
Residency Requirements
To file for divorce in Jefferson County, Alabama, at least one spouse must have lived in Alabama for six months before filing. Both spouses do not need to reside in Jefferson County specifically, but residency in Alabama is required. Proof of residency can include a driver’s license, utility bills, or a notarized affidavit.
How to File for Divorce in Jefferson County, AL
You don’t need a lawyer to move forward—prepare your divorce documents online today, fast, easy, and stress-free.
1. Prepare Your Divorce Forms
Gather all necessary paperwork including your marriage certificate, financial records, property deeds, and information about shared assets and debts. For couples with children, collect birth certificates and prepare details about custody preferences and support arrangements.
2. Complete Required Forms
Fill out the official divorce complaint forms, domestic relations information sheet, and summons. If children are involved, you’ll need additional forms including the child support information sheet. Forms must be complete and accurate to avoid rejection.
3. Submit Paperwork to the Court
Submit all completed and signed divorce documents to the Clerk of Court in your county. Once your forms are filed and the fee is paid (or waived), the court will assign a case number to your divorce. A judge will also be assigned to review your case and issue the final divorce judgment.
4. Serve Your Spouse With Papers
Legally notify your spouse about the divorce filing through sheriff’s service, certified mail, or a private process server. Your spouse has a limited period to respond to the complaint. This step is crucial as the divorce cannot proceed until proper service is documented with the court.