Costilla County Family Court Records
Costilla County is in southern Colorado. It sits in the San Luis Valley. The county seat is San Luis. This is the oldest town in Colorado. It was founded in 1851. The county has about 3,500 residents. It has a rich cultural history. Spanish is still spoken here.
The 12th Judicial District serves Costilla County. The district includes six counties total. Conejos, Alamosa, and Mineral are nearby. So are Rio Grande and Saguache. Family court cases are heard at the combined court. The court rotates between locations.
Family court records document all legal proceedings. These records are maintained by the clerk. Most files are open to the public. Some records are sealed. This protects sensitive information. It also protects juvenile privacy.
Where to Find Costilla County Family Court Records
The Costilla County Courthouse is at 304 Main Street. This is in San Luis. The building houses the combined court. Family case records are stored here. The clerk of court manages access. Office hours vary. Call to confirm.
Contact the court at (719) 672-3681. Staff can help you locate records. They can explain the request process. They can tell you about current fees. It is best to call first.
Types of Family Court Records in Costilla County
Family courts handle various matters. Divorce cases are filed regularly. These dissolve marriages. They divide assets and debts. They establish parenting time. They set child support amounts.
Other case types include paternity actions. These establish fatherhood. They create support obligations. Adoption cases make new families legal. Guardianship cases protect minors. Name changes are processed here. Protection orders address safety concerns.
Requesting Family Court Records in Costilla County
You can request records in person. Visit the clerk's office. Complete the necessary forms. Identify the case you need. Copies will be prepared. Fees apply for all copies.
Standard copies are $0.75 per page. Certified copies cost $20.00 each. Payment is accepted by cash or check. Call to verify accepted methods. Prices may change.
Some files are confidential. Juvenile records are restricted. Some domestic cases are sealed. You may need a court order. This allows you to view sealed files.
Online Search Options for Costilla County
CoCourts.com offers statewide searches. This includes Costilla County. You can look up cases online. Basic information is available free. Full access requires payment. Documents cost extra.
The Colorado Judicial Branch provides access information. Visit their public records page. Learn about your rights. Understand the process.
Submit formal requests using the Records Request Form. This is the official method. Use it for certified documents.
Legal Resources in Costilla County
Legal help is available to residents. Colorado Legal Services offers aid. They serve low-income families. Call 1-800-521-6968. They handle family law matters. Spanish assistance may be offered.
The Colorado Bar Association provides referrals. They connect you with lawyers. Ask about reduced fee consultations. This helps you find affordable help.
Self-help forms are available online. The Judicial Branch website has them. Instructions are included. Forms work statewide. This includes Costilla County.