Weld County Divorce Documents Repository
Weld County ranks as one of Colorado's most populous counties, with Greeley serving as its county seat. The 19th Judicial District Court handles a significant volume of divorce cases for this northern Colorado community. Records from these proceedings are maintained at the Weld County Courthouse Complex in Greeley. These documents serve thousands of residents annually who require proof of divorce for legal matters, name restoration, or personal documentation. The District Court Clerk manages an extensive archive following Colorado's record retention standards.
Weld County District Court Locations
The 19th Judicial District covers Weld County exclusively. The Weld County Courthouse Complex in Greeley houses all district court operations.
The main courthouse is a modern facility designed to handle high case volumes. The District Court Clerk's office processes all record requests. The complex includes ample parking for visitors.
Court hours are Monday through Friday during regular business hours. The clerk's office accepts record requests during these times. Security screening is required for all visitors.
The courthouse is accessible by public transportation. Regional bus routes serve the Greeley area. The building complies with ADA accessibility standards.
Note: Due to high volume, wait times may be longer during peak hours.
Obtaining Weld County Divorce Records
Multiple methods exist for requesting divorce documents. Each suits different needs.
In-person requests offer immediate results for many cases. Visit the Greeley courthouse during business hours. Bring valid photo identification and case information. Staff can locate and copy records while you wait for recent cases. Older files may require retrieval from archives.
Mail requests serve those who cannot visit personally. Download the Colorado Judicial Branch record request form. Complete all fields accurately. Include payment and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Processing takes approximately two to four weeks.
Online verification provides limited information quickly. CDPHE offers verification letters confirming divorce dates. This option does not provide full case files. Contact them at 303-692-2200 or use VitalChek for $17 per verification.
Weld County Divorce Record Fees
Understanding the fee structure helps you prepare for your request. Weld County follows state guidelines.
Standard photocopies cost $0.25 per page. Divorce decrees typically span multiple pages. Complete case files may contain dozens of pages. Calculate expected costs based on document length.
Certified copies carry a $20 fee per document. Certification adds the court's official seal, verifying authenticity. Government agencies and employers typically require certified copies.
Search fees may apply when case numbers are unknown. Staff time spent locating files incurs costs. Provide as much information as possible to minimize charges.
Accepted payment methods include cash, personal checks, and money orders. Credit card policies vary. Verify accepted methods before visiting.
Digital Search Resources for Weld County
Technology offers alternatives to courthouse visits. These online tools help locate cases.
The Colorado Judicial Branch maintains a free docket search system. Access it at coloradojudicial.gov/dockets. Search by party name, case number, or date range. Results show basic case information and status. Full document access requires court contact.
CoCourts.com provides enhanced search capabilities. This subscription service offers detailed case indices. Users can track cases across Colorado courts. Membership fees apply.
Vital Records Verification Services
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment maintains divorce verification records. These differ from court case files.
Verification letters confirm that a divorce occurred. They provide the date and names of parties. They do not include property or custody details.
To request verification, contact CDPHE at 303-692-2200. Their Denver office processes requests. Online ordering is available through VitalChek. The fee is $17 per verification.
Access restrictions apply under C.R.S. § 25-2-117. Requesters must demonstrate direct interest.
Colorado Divorce Laws and Record Access
State statutes govern how records are created and accessed. These ensure consistency.
C.R.S. § 14-10-106 establishes the 91-day residency requirement. One spouse must live in Colorado for 91 days before filing. The statute also mandates a 91-day waiting period.
C.R.S. § 14-10-120 requires clerks to report divorces to the state registrar. This creates the verification database.
Chief Justice Directive 05-01 establishes public access standards. Most divorce records are public. Sensitive information may be sealed.
The standard filing fee is $260 for new divorce petitions.
Historical Weld County Divorce Research
Finding older records requires specialized approaches. Weld County's size creates both opportunities and challenges.
The Colorado State Archives preserves pre-modern court records. Visit colorado.gov/archives for access. Their collection includes microfilmed documents.
Weld County was established in 1861. Its records extend back to territorial days. The county's agricultural history is reflected in early court documents.
Name variations complicate historical searches. Consider alternate spellings and name changes. Records are indexed by names as originally filed.
Contact Information for Weld County Records
Multiple agencies assist with divorce record needs. Save these contacts.
The State Court Administrator provides general information. Call 720-625-5000 for statewide assistance.
CDPHE Vital Records answers verification questions. Reach them at 303-692-2200.
The e-filing system serves parties with active cases. File documents and check status online.