Search Otero County Divorce Records
Otero County is in southeastern Colorado. The county seat is La Junta. This county sits on the eastern plains along the Arkansas River. The 16th Judicial District Court maintains divorce records here. This guide explains how to access these records. Learn about court procedures, fees, and online options.
Otero County District Court Location
The 16th Judicial District includes Bent, Crowley, and Otero counties. The District Court in La Junta serves Otero County residents. This courthouse handles all divorce cases. The clerk maintains complete case files.
The courthouse is in La Junta. Parking is available nearby. The building meets accessibility requirements. Staff can direct you to the records office. Call to verify hours before visiting.
Bring valid ID when you visit. The case number helps staff find files fast. Without it, they can search by name and date. Extra fees may apply for name searches. Older files may be stored off-site.
How to Obtain Divorce Records in Otero County
You have options for getting divorce documents. Choose what works best.
In-person visits are fastest. Go to the clerk's office in La Junta. Staff can often make copies while you wait. Good for urgent needs. Hours are Monday through Friday.
Mail requests work from anywhere. Complete the Colorado Judicial Branch form. Include payment and a stamped envelope. Allow two to four weeks. Staff will call if they need more details.
Note: The court processes most mail requests within three business days.
Online Tools for Otero County Divorce Cases
Several online resources can help you find case information.
The Colorado docket search is free. It covers all counties including Otero. Search by name or case number. View case status and dates. No registration required.
CoCourts.com offers detailed searches. See parties and case events. Costs $10 or less per search. Useful for frequent researchers.
For official state verifications, contact CDPHE. Their office is in Denver. Call 303-692-2200. Fee is $17 per record. Order online through VitalChek.
Fees for Otero County Divorce Documents
Know the costs before you request. Fees follow state schedules.
Regular copies cost $0.25 per page. Decrees often span several pages. Certified copies are $20 each. The seal proves the document is authentic. Most legal uses require certified copies.
Pay with cash or checks in person. Money orders work for mail. Make checks to Otero County District Court. Contact the clerk to verify payment options.
Laws Governing Otero County Divorce Records
State statutes control how records are created and accessed.
C.R.S. § 14-10-106 sets residency requirements. One spouse must live in Colorado for 91 days. This gives the court jurisdiction. Judges must wait 91 days to sign final decrees.
C.R.S. § 14-10-120 requires clerks to notify the state registrar. This keeps vital statistics current.
Chief Justice Directive 05-01 governs access. It balances public access with privacy. Some documents may be sealed from view.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions and answers.
How long for copies? Same day often works in person. Mail takes two to four weeks.
Are records public? Most are open. Sealed cases stay private.
No case number? Staff can search by name. Extra fees may apply.
Can I search online? Basic facts are online. Full documents need court contact.
Additional Help for Otero County Records
More resources are available.
The e-filing portal helps with active cases. File papers and check status. Not for searching old records.
The Colorado State Archives keeps historical files. Contact them for older Otero County records.
Note: Otero County was established in 1889 and named for a territorial judge.