Locate Washington County Divorce Case Files
Washington County lies on the eastern plains of Colorado, with Akron as its county seat. The 13th Judicial District Court processes all divorce cases for this agricultural community. Records from these proceedings are maintained at the courthouse in Akron. These documents serve residents who need proof of divorce for legal proceedings, name changes, or personal verification. The District Court Clerk preserves all case files following Colorado's retention requirements.
Washington County District Court Location
The 13th Judicial District covers Logan, Morgan, Phillips, Sedgwick, Washington, and Yuma counties. The Washington County Courthouse in Akron handles all district court matters.
The courthouse is located in Akron, the county seat. This facility serves the rural population of Washington County. Court hours are Monday through Friday during regular business hours.
The clerk's office maintains all divorce case files for the county. Documents include petitions, decrees, and supporting materials. Staff provide assistance with record location and copying.
Parking is available near the courthouse entrance. The building is accessible to all visitors. Security screening is required for entry.
Note: Rural courthouse hours may vary during severe weather events.
Requesting Washington County Divorce Records
Three methods exist for obtaining divorce documents. Each suits different circumstances.
In-person visits provide same-day service for most requests. Bring photo identification and case information. The clerk locates your file and produces copies promptly. This works best for urgent needs.
Mail requests accommodate distant requesters. Complete the court's record request form. Include payment and a self-addressed envelope. Processing takes several weeks. The official request form is available online.
Online verification offers limited information. CDPHE provides verification for $17. This confirms divorce dates without full case details. Use VitalChek or call 303-692-2200.
Washington County Divorce Record Costs
Fees follow state guidelines for court records. Understanding costs helps you prepare.
Standard copies cost $0.25 per page. Divorce decrees often span ten to twenty pages. Complete case files may be longer. Budget based on your needs.
Certified copies cost $20 per document. Certification adds an official seal. Most legal purposes require certified copies.
Payment options include cash, check, and money order. Credit card acceptance varies by location. Call ahead to confirm payment methods.
Statewide Search Resources
Digital tools help locate cases before requesting copies. These save time and travel.
The Colorado Judicial Branch offers free docket searching at coloradojudicial.gov/dockets. Enter names or case numbers to find basic information. Results show filing dates, parties, and case status.
CoCourts.com provides enhanced search capabilities. This subscription service offers detailed case information. Researchers often subscribe for frequent access. The platform includes Washington County cases.
Colorado Divorce Statutes and Requirements
State laws govern divorce proceedings and record keeping. These apply to all counties.
C.R.S. § 14-10-106 establishes the 91-day residency requirement. At least one spouse must live in Colorado for 91 days before filing. The same statute mandates a 91-day waiting period before final decrees.
C.R.S. § 14-10-120 requires clerks to report divorces to the state registrar. This maintains the verification database.
C.R.S. § 25-2-117 protects vital records confidentiality. Requesters must show direct interest in the record.
Chief Justice Directive 05-01 controls public access to court records. Most divorce records are public. Sensitive information may be sealed.
Historical Washington County Records
Washington County formed in 1887. Early records document the area's settlement period. The Colorado State Archives preserves historical court documents.
Researchers should contact the State Archives for older cases. Visit colorado.gov/archives for access information. Their collection includes records from eastern Colorado counties.
Contact Information for Assistance
Multiple agencies help with divorce record needs. Save these contacts.
The State Court Administrator provides general court information. Call 720-625-5000 for statewide assistance.
CDPHE Vital Records handles verification requests. Contact them at 303-692-2200. Their Denver office processes these requests.
The e-filing portal serves parties with active cases. File documents and check case status online.