Dolores County Family Court Records
Dolores County family court records are kept at the 22nd Judicial District Combined Court in Dove Creek. This rural county in southwest Colorado has a small population. The court serves all family law needs in one location. You can find divorce cases, custody disputes, and protection orders here.
Where to Find Dolores County Family Court Records
The 22nd Judicial District Combined Court serves Dolores County. The courthouse is in Dove Creek. This is the only court location for the county. All family cases are filed and heard here. The court handles divorce, legal separation, and annulment cases. It also manages child custody and support matters.
The 22nd Judicial District also covers Montezuma County. Both counties share one judicial district. However, each county has its own courthouse. Make sure you visit the correct location for Dolores County records.
Types of Family Court Records in Dolores County
Dolores County keeps various family court records. Divorce decrees are the most common request. These documents show the end of a marriage. They list property division and debt allocation. Custody orders detail parenting time. They show decision-making authority for children. Support orders specify payment amounts. They show who pays and how much.
Protection orders are also kept on file. These restrict contact between parties. They help victims of domestic violence. Adoption records stay sealed in most cases. This protects the privacy of children and families.
Most Dolores County records are public. You can view them during business hours. Copies cost a fee per page.
Requesting Family Court Records in Dolores County
You can request family court records from Dolores County in person or by mail. Visit the courthouse during open hours. Bring valid photo identification. Staff will help you locate your case file. You can view files in the public area. Copies require payment at the time of request.
Mail requests should include specific details. Write the names of the parties. Include the case number if known. Add the approximate year of filing. Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope. Include payment for copy fees.
Processing times vary. Simple requests take a few days. Complex files need more time. Call the court to check on status.
Online Search Options for Dolores County
Dolores County participates in the Colorado state court records system. You can search case information online. Visit CoCourts.com to access the database. This portal covers courts across Colorado.
The online system lets you search by name. You can also use case numbers. Basic case details are often free. Full documents may need in-person access. Not all records are digitized. Older cases may require a visit to the courthouse.
For questions about online access, contact the court clerk. They can explain what is available online. They can guide you through the search process.
Legal Resources in Dolores County
Dolores County residents can access several legal resources. The courthouse provides forms for self-represented parties. Staff can explain procedures. They cannot offer legal advice. For complex cases, consider hiring an attorney.
Colorado Legal Services assists low-income families. They help with divorce and custody matters. They also handle protection orders. Contact them to see if you qualify. The Colorado Judicial Branch website has self-help guides. Visit coloradojudicial.gov for more information.
Your right to access records comes from state law. C.R.S. § 24-72-203 governs public access to court files. This ensures transparency in legal proceedings.
Nearby Counties
These counties are near Dolores County. Cases must be filed in the proper jurisdiction. Check which county handles your case before filing.