Find Alpine County Dissolution Records

Dissolution of marriage records in Alpine County are maintained at the Superior Court in Markleeville. This small county serves a limited population, but the court keeps complete records of all dissolution cases filed here. You must contact court staff to request records, as Alpine County does not offer online case searches. The courthouse sits at 14777 State Route 89 in Markleeville. All dissolution filings, judgments, and related documents are stored at this one location. Staff can help you find case files and provide certified copies when needed.

Alpine County Court Information

The Superior Court of California in Alpine County operates from a single courthouse in Markleeville. The physical address is 14777 State Route 89, and the mailing address is P.O. Box 518, Markleeville, CA 96120. Phone the clerk's office at (530) 694-2113 during business hours. Staff work Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to noon, then reopen from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM. The office closes for lunch each day. Plan your visit or phone call around these hours to reach someone who can assist with your records request.

Alpine County does not maintain an online portal for case searches. All record searches must be performed by court staff. When you call or visit, provide as much information as possible about the case. Full names of both parties, approximate filing date, and case number will help staff locate the file quickly. If you do not have a case number, staff can search by name, but this may take additional time.

Because Alpine County is California's smallest county by population, the court handles fewer cases than larger counties. This means staff can often provide more personalized service. However, it also means that resources are limited. Complex searches or requests for older records may require advance notice. Call ahead if you need extensive help with your dissolution records research.

The courthouse serves all residents of Alpine County and anyone who filed a dissolution case here. Even though the county is small, the court follows the same rules and procedures as all other California Superior Courts. Records are public unless a judge has sealed the case. Fees follow standard California court rates.

Record Fees in Alpine County

Alpine County charges standard California court fees for dissolution records. A search fee of $15 applies if staff must spend time locating your case. Copies cost $0.50 per page. If you need a certified copy, expect to pay for certification plus the per-page copy fee. Bring cash, check, or money order when you visit the courthouse. Verify accepted payment methods before your trip, as small counties may not accept credit cards.

Mail requests require a check or money order payable to the Superior Court of California. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope with your request. Write the case number or both parties' names clearly. Processing times for mail requests depend on staff availability. Because the court operates with limited staff, allow extra time for responses. Two to three weeks is typical for simple requests, but complex searches may take longer.

In-person visits usually result in faster service. Staff can search for your case while you wait if they are not busy with other tasks. Bring identification and any documents that show the case number or filing date. This helps staff find your file without delay. Ask about current fees at the time of your visit, as rates may change.

How to Access Dissolution Records

Alpine County requires you to contact the court directly for all record requests. You cannot search cases online. Visit the courthouse in person during business hours, call the clerk's office, or mail a written request. Each method has different processing times and levels of convenience.

In-person visits let you work directly with staff. Bring all known details about the case. The clerk can search the files and make copies while you wait. This is the fastest method if you live near Markleeville or plan to visit the area. Make sure to arrive during open hours and allow time for the search and copying process.

Phone requests work well for simple questions. Staff can tell you if a case exists and provide basic information. They may be able to start a search and call you back with results. However, you will still need to submit a written request and payment to receive copies. Phone inquiries are a good first step to confirm that your case is on file before you make a trip or send money.

Mail requests offer convenience if you live far from Alpine County. Write a clear letter that includes the case number or both parties' full names. State what records you need and how many copies. Include your payment and a return envelope. Mail your request to P.O. Box 518, Markleeville, CA 96120. Wait at least three weeks for a response. Follow up by phone if you do not hear back within a month.

Note: Alpine County's small staff means longer wait times during busy periods.

Dissolution Filings in Alpine County

Alpine County is California's least populated county. Most residents live in small communities spread across a mountainous area. The county sees fewer dissolution filings than larger counties, but each case is processed with the same legal standards that apply statewide. Residency rules require that you or your spouse lived in California for six months and in Alpine County for three months before filing.

Cases filed in Alpine County follow California's no-fault dissolution system. You do not need to prove wrongdoing. The court divides property under community property rules. Support and custody issues are decided based on state guidelines and the best interest of any children. Even though the county is small, the legal process mirrors what happens in larger counties across California.

The courthouse in Markleeville handles all family law matters for the county. There are no branch locations. All filings, hearings, and record requests go through this one office. This centralization means that all records are kept in a single location, which can make searches simpler once you reach the right person.

Surrounding Counties

Alpine County sits in the eastern Sierra Nevada region. It borders several other counties where you might need to search if your case was filed elsewhere. El Dorado County lies to the north and west. Mono County is to the south. Amador County and Calaveras County are nearby to the west. Each of these counties maintains its own court system and records. Contact the appropriate county if your dissolution was filed outside Alpine County.