Access Windsor Divorce Case Documents
Windsor residents seeking divorce records face a unique situation. The town sits in both Weld and Larimer Counties. This means your divorce case may be filed in either county. You need to know which courthouse holds your records. The process involves contacting the correct District Court Clerk based on where the case was filed. Both counties maintain detailed case files for all divorce proceedings.
Windsor Divorce Records by County
Determining which county holds your divorce records is the first step. Windsor spans the county line between Weld and Larimer. Most Windsor residents live in Weld County. However, a portion of the town extends into Larimer County. Your divorce case would be filed in the county where you or your spouse resided at the time of filing. This affects which courthouse you must visit or contact.
The Weld County District Court sits in Greeley. This court serves most of Windsor. The address is 901 9th Street, Greeley, CO 80631. The phone number is 970-475-2400. This court handles the majority of divorce cases for Windsor residents. You can visit the clerk's office during regular business hours. Staff can help you locate records and provide copies.
The Larimer County District Court serves the portion of Windsor in that county. The courthouse is at 201 La Porte Avenue, Fort Collins, CO 80521. The phone number is 970-494-3500. If your case was filed in Larimer County, you must contact this court. Both courthouses provide similar services for record requests. You can request copies in person, by mail, or online through the Colorado Judicial Branch form.
Online tools can help you find which court has your case. The statewide docket search covers both counties. You can search by name without knowing the county first. This free tool shows case numbers, filing dates, and court locations. It helps you determine where to direct your record request before making calls or visits.
Obtaining Divorce Documents in Windsor
Once you know which county holds your records, you can request copies. Both Weld and Larimer Counties follow Colorado state procedures. The process is similar regardless of which courthouse you use. Understanding the steps saves time and ensures you get the right documents.
In-person requests provide the fastest results. Visit the District Court Clerk's office in the correct county. Bring valid identification and any case information you have. The case number speeds up the search process. Without it, staff can search by names and dates. Standard copies cost $0.25 per page. Certified copies cost $20 per document. Most legal purposes require certified copies.
Mail requests work for those who cannot visit in person. Complete a record request form and send it to the appropriate courthouse. Include payment by check or money order. Allow several weeks for processing and return delivery. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for faster return service. The online request form allows you to submit requests electronically for both counties.
For divorce verifications only, contact the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. They maintain a statewide index of all divorces. This is not a certified copy but confirms the divorce occurred. Call 303-692-2200 for information. You can also order through VitalChek online. The fee is $17 per verification.
Windsor Divorce Filing Information
Colorado law governs how divorces are filed and recorded. These laws apply to all Windsor residents regardless of which county hears the case. Understanding these requirements helps explain the records that are created.
Under C.R.S. § 14-10-106, at least one spouse must live in Colorado for 91 days before filing. This residency rule applies to all Windsor divorce cases. You file in the county where you or your spouse resides. The court must find that the marriage is irretrievably broken before granting the divorce.
Colorado imposes a mandatory 91-day waiting period after filing. The court cannot issue a final decree before this period ends. This waiting period applies even when both parties agree on all terms. Temporary orders may be issued during this time for support or parental responsibilities.
C.R.S. § 14-10-120 requires the clerk to notify the state registrar of all divorces. This creates the link between court records and vital statistics records. The clerk forwards a report of each dissolution to CDPHE. This ensures the statewide divorce index remains current.
Fees for Windsor Divorce Records
Understanding costs helps you prepare for your record request. Both Weld and Larimer Counties follow state guidelines for court record fees. These amounts may change, so verify current rates before visiting.
Standard photocopies cost $0.25 per page at both courthouses. A typical divorce decree spans multiple pages. Additional documents increase the total cost. Certified copies cost $20 per document. Certification adds an official seal verifying authenticity. Most legal matters require certified copies rather than standard photocopies.
The court accepts various payment forms. Cash and checks work for in-person requests. Money orders provide a secure payment method by mail. Credit card payments may incur surcharges. Make checks payable to the specific county District Court.
Note: Fee waivers exist for those who cannot afford court costs. You must file a motion and provide financial documentation to qualify.
Online Search Tools for Windsor Divorce Cases
The internet provides ways to search for divorce case information without visiting either courthouse. These tools save time and help you locate cases before requesting official copies.
The Colorado Judicial Branch offers a free docket search system. You can access this at coloradojudicial.gov/dockets. The system shows case numbers, parties involved, filing dates, and case status. Basic information is available at no cost. Full document access requires contacting the court directly. This tool searches both Weld and Larimer County cases.
CoCourts.com provides another search option. This subscription service offers detailed case information. Users can view party information, case events, and document indices. The service charges fees but may save time for frequent researchers. It covers divorce cases from courts across Colorado including both counties serving Windsor.
Chief Justice Directive 05-01 governs public access to these records. This directive balances transparency with privacy concerns. Some divorce documents may be sealed or restricted from public view. Financial affidavits and child custody details often receive protection from general access.
Windsor Divorce Records FAQ
Common questions arise when searching for divorce documents in Windsor. Here are answers to help your search go smoothly.
How do I know which county has my records? Check the statewide docket search first. It shows which court handled your case. Most Windsor cases are in Weld County.
Can I get same-day copies? In-person requests at either courthouse often finish the same day. It depends on file location and staff availability.
What if I was divorced before Windsor incorporated? Windsor became a town in 1890. Earlier records may be in state archives or parent counties.
Additional Windsor Resources
Beyond the courthouses, several resources assist with divorce record searches. These options provide backup when standard methods fail.
The Colorado Judicial Branch self-help center provides forms and guidance. While not a records search tool, it helps with understanding divorce processes. You can find information about current case management.
Historical researchers should contact the Colorado State Archives. They preserve older court records from across the state. Their collection includes microfilmed divorce records from many counties including Weld and Larimer.
