La Plata County Divorce Case Files
La Plata County divorce records are stored at the District Court in Durango. This southwestern Colorado county serves a diverse population. The court clerk maintains comprehensive files for all divorce proceedings. These documents legally confirm marriage dissolution. People need them for various life events. The courthouse provides access to these public records. Understanding the process makes retrieval easier.
La Plata County Divorce Court in Durango
The 6th Judicial District covers La Plata County. The District Court sits in Durango. This facility handles all divorce cases for the county. The clerk's office manages record requests. They maintain an extensive archive of case files.
The courthouse welcomes visitors during business hours. Located in downtown Durango, it is accessible by public transit. Parking lots serve the building. Bring valid identification for record requests. Case information speeds the search process.
Staff can retrieve most records quickly. Older files may require advance notice. The office can transfer archived documents when needed. Call to confirm availability before traveling long distances.
Obtaining La Plata County Divorce Records
Several methods work for document requests. Each suits different situations.
In-person requests provide immediate results. Visit the clerk's office in Durango. Present your ID. Supply case details. Staff locate and copy the file. Payment is collected on site. You depart with documents.
Mail requests accommodate remote applicants. Use the Colorado Judicial Branch form. Fill it out completely. Attach payment. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Processing spans two to four weeks. Plan for this timeframe.
Phone inquiries help prepare for visits. Staff can confirm record existence. They explain requirements. This saves wasted trips.
La Plata County Divorce Record Fees
Costs are set by state regulation. Current rates apply uniformly.
Photocopies cost $0.25 per page. Decrees often contain several pages. Certified copies are $20 each. The certification seal proves authenticity. Legal processes usually need certified documents. Personal use may accept standard copies.
Payment methods include cash and checks. Money orders are also accepted. Checks should be made out to La Plata County District Court. Credit card availability varies. Confirm before your visit.
Note: La Plata County charges additional fees for extensive searches without case numbers. Provide all known information to minimize costs.
Digital Search Options for La Plata County
Online tools help locate cases. They reduce courthouse visits.
The state offers free docket access. Visit coloradojudicial.gov/dockets. Enter party names. The system returns case numbers and status. Basic data is free. Documents require court contact.
CoCourts.com provides enhanced searches. Subscribers see detailed case indices. Party histories are visible. Document lists are available. This service charges fees. Researchers find it useful.
For official verification, contact CDPHE. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment issues verification letters. These confirm a divorce happened. They are not the same as certified decrees. Fees are $17 per C.R.S. § 25-2-117. Reach them at 303-692-2200. Their office is at 4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver. Online orders go through VitalChek.
Colorado Laws Affecting La Plata County Divorces
Statutes govern all divorce proceedings. La Plata County follows these rules.
C.R.S. § 14-10-106 establishes residency requirements. Parties must live in Colorado for 91 days. This period precedes filing. After filing, another 91 days must pass. Courts then may finalize the divorce. This applies to all Colorado counties.
C.R.S. § 14-10-120 requires state notification. Clerks report all decrees. The registrar updates records. This maintains accurate vital statistics.
Access rules come from Chief Justice Directive 05-01. This balances openness with privacy. Some records are sealed. Financial and custody details often stay private. Public access is limited to basic facts.
La Plata County Divorce Records FAQ
Frequent questions receive straightforward answers.
What is the record history? La Plata County formed in 1874. Divorce records exist from that era. Early records may be incomplete.
Who can access files? The public can view most records. Sealed cases are restricted. Only parties and counsel access sealed files.
What about missing case numbers? Staff search by name. Give full names and years. Extra fees may apply.
How quick is the service? Same-day for available files. Archived records take longer. Advance calls help.
Further Resources for La Plata County Divorce Records
Additional assistance is available. These resources support your search.
The e-filing portal serves active cases. Parties file documents here. Status updates are visible. Historical records are not included.
The Colorado State Archives preserves old records. Microfilm collections are extensive. Historical divorces are documented. Genealogists value this archive.