Weld County Divorce Records
What Are Weld County Divorce Records?
Divorce records in Weld County are official legal documents that provide evidence of the dissolution of a marriage within the county's jurisdiction. These records are maintained pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes § 14-10-107, which governs dissolution of marriage proceedings in the state. Divorce records typically consist of multiple documents filed throughout the divorce process, including the initial petition, financial disclosures, custody arrangements, and the final decree of dissolution.
The Weld County District Court, as part of the 19th Judicial District, maintains these records as part of its official court functions. Divorce records serve multiple important purposes:
- Legal proof of marital status change
- Documentation required for remarriage
- Evidence for name change processes
- Verification for Social Security benefits claims
- Supporting documentation for loan applications
- Required evidence for certain immigration matters
- Historical and genealogical research
Under Colorado law, divorce records are categorized as both vital records and court records, with different components maintained by different government entities. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment maintains certificates of divorce, while the detailed court files are maintained by the Weld County District Court.
Are Weld County Divorce Records Public?
Weld County divorce records have a complex public access status that varies by document type and information content. Generally, court case files related to divorces are considered public records under the Colorado Open Records Act § 24-72-201, but with significant exceptions.
The public accessibility of divorce records is subject to the following conditions:
- Basic case information (parties' names, case numbers, filing dates) is typically public
- Financial disclosures and detailed personal information may be redacted or restricted
- Cases involving domestic violence may have protective orders limiting access
- Records containing information about minor children have heightened privacy protections
- Sealed cases by judicial order are not accessible to the public
Certified divorce certificates, which confirm the fact of divorce, date, and location, have more restricted access. Pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes § 25-2-117, these certificates are available only to:
- The parties to the divorce
- Direct family members with legitimate interest
- Legal representatives with proper authorization
- Individuals who can demonstrate a direct and tangible interest
The Weld County District Court balances the public's right to information with individual privacy concerns when determining access to divorce records.
How To Find a Divorce Record In Weld County in 2026
Members of the public seeking divorce records in Weld County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The primary repository for divorce case files is the Weld County District Court, which maintains records of proceedings within its jurisdiction.
To obtain divorce records, requestors should follow these steps:
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Gather necessary information about the divorce case:
- Full names of both parties (including maiden names if applicable)
- Approximate date of divorce filing or finalization
- Case number (if known)
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Contact or visit the Weld County District Court:
Weld County District Court
901 9th Avenue
P.O. Box 2038
Greeley, CO 80631
(970) 475-2400
Weld County District Court
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Submit a records request form, available at the court clerk's office or through the Colorado Judicial Branch website
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Pay applicable search and copy fees (currently $0.75 per page for copies, with additional certification fees if required)
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For divorce certificates (rather than full case files), contact:
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment - Vital Records Section
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South
Denver, CO 80246
(303) 692-2200
Colorado Vital Records
Requestors should note that processing times vary based on the age of records and current administrative workload.
How To Look Up Divorce Records in Weld County Online?
Weld County provides limited online access to divorce records through several digital platforms. The Colorado Judicial Branch offers a case information portal that allows users to search for basic case information, though complete divorce files are not available for download.
To search for divorce records online:
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Visit the Colorado Courts Records Search portal
- Create a user account if you don't already have one
- Select "Weld County" from the jurisdiction dropdown
- Enter search criteria (names, case numbers)
- Note that this system provides only basic case information, not document images
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For historical divorce records (generally pre-1968), check the Colorado State Archives divorce records database
- Search by name and county
- Records may include case numbers and filing dates
- Full documents typically require an in-person visit or mail request
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The Weld County Clerk and Recorder's Office maintains a self-service portal for certain public records, though divorce records are primarily maintained by the courts
Online searches typically reveal only limited information such as:
- Case numbers
- Filing dates
- Party names
- General case status
For complete divorce case files, including judgments, financial disclosures, and custody arrangements, requestors must typically contact the court directly or visit in person.
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Weld County?
Members of the public seeking no-cost access to divorce records in Weld County have limited but viable options. While obtaining copies typically involves fees, viewing records may be possible without charge.
Free access methods include:
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In-person inspection at the Weld County District Court:
- Visit the court clerk's office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:30 PM, excluding holidays)
- Request to view specific case files using case numbers or party names
- Records will be retrieved for on-site viewing at no charge
- Note that while viewing is free, any copies requested will incur standard fees
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Public access terminals at the courthouse:
- Computer terminals are available for searching basic case information
- No fee is charged for using these terminals
- Limited to index information rather than full document access
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Public libraries with legal research resources:
- The High Plains Library District offers access to legal databases
- Some historical divorce records may be accessible through genealogical resources
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Colorado State Archives for historical records:
- The Colorado State Archives maintains older divorce records
- Basic index information is available online at no cost
- In-person research at the archives is available without fees
Requestors should note that while viewing records may be free, obtaining certified copies or extensive document reproduction will involve standard fees. Additionally, some records may have restricted access regardless of fee payment.
What's Included in a Divorce Records In Weld County
Divorce records in Weld County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents generated throughout the dissolution process. These records contain legally significant information about the termination of marriage and related matters.
A complete divorce file typically includes:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage - The initial filing that states grounds for divorce and requested relief
- Summons - Official notice to the respondent about the divorce action
- Response/Answer - The non-filing spouse's formal reply to the petition
- Financial Affidavits - Sworn statements detailing each party's assets, debts, income, and expenses
- Separation Agreement - If reached, the document outlining division of property and debts
- Parenting Plan - For divorces involving minor children, details custody arrangements and parenting time
- Child Support Worksheets - Calculations determining support obligations
- Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) - Documents addressing division of retirement accounts
- Temporary Orders - Court directives governing conduct during the pendency of proceedings
- Final Decree of Dissolution - The judge's final order terminating the marriage
- Certificate of Divorce - Official vital record documenting the fact and date of divorce
The level of detail in these records varies based on case complexity, whether the divorce was contested, and whether minor children were involved. Pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes § 14-10-107.8, certain sensitive personal information such as Social Security numbers and financial account details may be redacted from publicly accessible versions of these documents.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In Weld County?
Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Weld County have several options for obtaining certified documentation. The type of proof needed often depends on the requesting party's specific requirements.
For official proof of divorce, requestors may obtain:
- Certified Copy of Divorce Decree from Weld County District Court:
- Submit a written request to the court clerk specifying the case number and parties' names
- Pay the certification fee (currently $20.00 per document plus copy fees)
- Provide valid identification
- Allow 3-5 business days for processing
Weld County District Court
901 9th Avenue
P.O. Box 2038
Greeley, CO 80631
(970) 475-2400
Weld County District Court
- Certificate of Divorce from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment:
- Complete the vital records application form
- Provide proof of identity and direct interest in the record
- Submit the required fee (currently $20 for the first copy, $13 for additional copies)
- Applications can be submitted in person, by mail, or online
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment - Vital Records Section
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South
Denver, CO 80246
(303) 692-2200
Colorado Vital Records
- For divorces finalized before 1968, contact:
Colorado State Archives
1313 Sherman Street, Room 120
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 866-2358
Colorado State Archives
Requestors should specify whether they need the full divorce decree or simply a certificate verifying the fact of divorce, as different agencies provide different documents with varying levels of detail.
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Weld County?
While divorce proceedings in Weld County are generally matters of public record, Colorado law provides several mechanisms for maintaining confidentiality in certain circumstances. The courts balance the public's right to access with legitimate privacy concerns.
Confidentiality options in divorce proceedings include:
- Sealed Records - Pursuant to Colorado Rules of Civil Procedure 121 § 1-5, a judge may order entire case files or specific documents sealed upon showing of good cause
- Restricted Access - Certain sensitive documents may have access limited to parties and their attorneys
- Redaction - Personal identifiers such as Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and children's information are routinely redacted from public versions of documents
- Use of Initials - In cases involving domestic violence or other safety concerns, parties may be identified by initials rather than full names
- Protective Orders - The court may issue specific orders limiting disclosure of sensitive information
Circumstances that may warrant confidentiality include:
- Domestic violence or safety concerns
- Protection of minor children's privacy
- Trade secrets or confidential business information
- Mental health or medical information
- Allegations of abuse or neglect
Parties seeking confidentiality must typically file a specific motion with the court demonstrating why the standard of public access should be overcome. Judges evaluate these requests on a case-by-case basis, generally favoring the least restrictive means necessary to protect legitimate privacy interests while maintaining the presumption of public access to court records.
How Long Does a Divorce Take In Weld County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in Weld County varies significantly based on multiple factors related to case complexity and the level of agreement between parties. Colorado law establishes certain minimum timeframes, but the actual process may extend considerably longer.
Key timeframe factors include:
- Statutory Waiting Period - Colorado imposes a mandatory 91-day waiting period from service of the petition before a divorce can be finalized, per Colorado Revised Statutes § 14-10-106(1)(a)(II)
- Level of Agreement - Uncontested divorces proceed more quickly than contested cases
- Asset Complexity - High-value or complex asset divisions require more time
- Child Custody Issues - Disputes over parenting time extend proceedings
- Court Caseload - Current docket congestion affects scheduling
- Mediation Requirements - Many cases require mandatory mediation attempts
Approximate timeframes for Weld County divorces:
- Uncontested divorces with complete agreement: 3-4 months
- Partially contested divorces requiring negotiation: 6-8 months
- Fully contested divorces requiring court hearings: 8-12 months
- Complex cases with significant assets or custody disputes: 12-18+ months
According to the Colorado Judicial Branch, the 19th Judicial District (which includes Weld County) processes approximately 1,200 dissolution cases annually, with an average time to disposition of approximately 230 days for contested cases.
Parties can expedite proceedings by reaching agreements through mediation, providing complete financial disclosures promptly, and adhering to court deadlines.
How Long Does Weld County Keep Divorce Records?
Weld County maintains divorce records according to Colorado's records retention schedules, which establish different preservation periods based on record type and historical significance. These retention policies ensure both practical access and historical preservation.
Retention periods for divorce records include:
- Court Case Files - The Weld County District Court retains complete divorce case files permanently for cases filed after 1968, pursuant to the Colorado Judicial Department Records Retention Manual
- Divorce Certificates - The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment maintains divorce certificates permanently as vital records
- Divorce Indexes - Name indexes to divorce proceedings are maintained permanently
- Exhibits - Physical exhibits may be returned to parties or destroyed after appeal periods expire
- Administrative Records - Non-essential administrative documents may be destroyed after shorter periods
For historical records (generally pre-1968), the Colorado State Archives serves as the repository of permanent preservation. These older records may include:
- Case files from 1861-1968
- Divorce indexes and registers
- Judgment books and dockets
Researchers seeking very old divorce records should note that record completeness varies by time period, with earlier records often containing less detail than modern files. Additionally, some historical records may have been lost due to courthouse fires, floods, or earlier records management practices.
How To Get a Divorce In Weld County
Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Weld County must follow Colorado's established legal process for divorce, formally known as "dissolution of marriage." The procedure involves multiple steps and compliance with statutory requirements.
The divorce process in Weld County includes:
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Residency Requirement - At least one spouse must have been a Colorado resident for 91 days before filing, per Colorado Revised Statutes § 14-10-106
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Prepare and File Initial Documents:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- Case Information Sheet
- Summons
- Filing fee payment (currently $230)
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Serve Documents on Spouse:
- By private process server
- By sheriff's deputy
- By certified mail (if spouse will sign waiver)
- Personal service cannot be performed by the filing party
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Financial Disclosures:
- Both parties must complete Sworn Financial Statements
- Mandatory disclosure of assets, debts, income, and expenses
- Exchange of supporting documentation
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Parenting Class:
- Required for cases involving minor children
- Court-approved parenting education program
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Resolution Process:
- Negotiation between parties
- Mediation (often court-ordered)
- Settlement conference
- Contested hearing if necessary
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Final Orders:
- Submission of Separation Agreement
- Parenting Plan (if applicable)
- Decree of Dissolution
All filings must be submitted to:
Weld County District Court
901 9th Avenue
P.O. Box 2038
Greeley, CO 80631
(970) 475-2400
Weld County District Court
Self-represented litigants can access forms and guidance through the Colorado Judicial Branch Self-Help Resources.
How To Get Divorce Papers In Weld County
Individuals initiating or responding to divorce proceedings in Weld County require specific legal forms to properly document and process their case. These documents are available through multiple channels.
To obtain divorce papers in Weld County:
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Colorado Judicial Branch Website:
- Visit the Colorado Judicial Branch Self-Help Forms page
- Download fillable PDF forms for dissolution of marriage
- Forms are organized by case type and include detailed instructions
- Available at no cost
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Weld County District Court:
- Visit the court clerk's office in person
- Request divorce packet appropriate to your situation
- Self-help center staff can identify required forms
- Nominal fee may apply for printed packets
Weld County District Court
901 9th Avenue
P.O. Box 2038
Greeley, CO 80631
(970) 475-2400
Weld County District Court
-
Self-Help Center at the Courthouse:
- Provides guidance on form completion
- Offers computer access for downloading forms
- Staff cannot provide legal advice but can answer procedural questions
- Available during regular business hours
-
Legal Aid Organizations:
- Colorado Legal Services may assist qualifying low-income individuals
- Pro bono clinics periodically offer form assistance
Essential divorce forms typically include:
- JDF 1101 - Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- JDF 1102 - Summons for Dissolution of Marriage
- JDF 1000 - Case Information Sheet
- JDF 1104 - Certificate of Compliance with Mandatory Disclosures
- JDF 1111 - Sworn Financial Statement
- JDF 1117 - Support Order
- JDF 1116 - Decree of Dissolution of Marriage
Parties should ensure they are using current form versions, as legal requirements and document formats are periodically updated.