Many people don’t realize that when you file for divorce, a lot of your personal information becomes public record. In Georgia, any document filed in your case can be accessed—meaning employers, potential future partners, and even your children could one day look up what happened in your divorce.
If you’re concerned about protecting your privacy, understanding what becomes public and how to keep it confidential is critical. Fortunately, there are ways to handle a divorce that minimize exposure and keep sensitive details out of the public eye.
What Becomes Public in a Divorce?
When a divorce case goes through the court system, all filed documents become part of the public record, unless they are sealed by a judge (which is rare). Some of the most concerning information that may become public includes:
- Allegations made by either party – Claims about mental health, parenting abilities, or behavior that could put children at risk
- Financial details – Income, assets, debts, and expenses
- Accusations of drug or alcohol use – Even if exaggerated or false
- Custody disputes and parenting concerns – Information that could affect relationships with children in the future
Many of these claims aren’t even true but are often exaggerated by attorneys trying to gain leverage in a case. Even if they are later proven false, they can still remain in court records for anyone to see.
How to Keep Your Divorce Private
The best way to protect your personal information is to avoid unnecessary court filings and settle your divorce out of court. One of the most effective ways to do this is through the Amicable Divorce Network or other alternative dispute resolution methods.
Using an Out-of-Court Process
Instead of filing every document in court, an out-of-court process keeps most negotiations private and minimizes public records. Here’s how it works:
✔️ Your attorney, mediators, and other professionals work together to negotiate an agreement before anything is filed.
✔️ No unnecessary accusations go into public court records.
✔️ Mediation, co-parenting counseling, or forensic accountants can help resolve disputes without exposing personal details.
This approach not only protects your privacy but also reduces conflict and legal costs.
Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Privacy
If keeping your personal information private is important to you, choosing the right divorce process is key. The traditional court process exposes sensitive details, but alternative methods like mediation or the Amicable Divorce Network allow you to resolve issues privately.
Need Help Keeping Your Divorce Private?
If you’re considering divorce and want to protect your privacy, our team can help you explore confidential divorce options that keep your personal details out of the public record.
Jeanette Soltys, J.D., is a distinguished Georgia divorce attorney and a leading authority in alternative dispute resolution techniques such as amicable divorce. She obtained her Juris Doctor from Wake Forest University School of Law and is admitted to the bar in the state of Georgia. Additionally, she is a Certified Amicable Divorce Professional (CADP).