Douglas County Family Court Records
Douglas County family court records are maintained by the 18th Judicial District Combined Court. The courthouse is located in Castle Rock. This county sits between Denver and Colorado Springs. It is one of the fastest-growing areas in Colorado. The court handles a high volume of family law cases each year.
The 18th Judicial District serves four counties. These are Arapahoe, Douglas, Elbert, and Lincoln. Each county has its own courthouse. Douglas County cases stay in Castle Rock. You cannot access them at other locations within the district.
Where to Find Douglas County Family Court Records
The Douglas County Combined Court is in Castle Rock. This is the main location for all family court records. The court handles divorces and legal separations. It also manages custody disputes and visitation issues. Child support cases are filed here. Protection orders can be requested at this court.
The 18th Judicial District is large. It covers a wide area south of Denver. Each county maintains separate records. Douglas County files stay in Castle Rock. Staff can help you find the correct case file. Bring identification when you visit. This speeds up the search process.
Hours vary by department. Call ahead to confirm. Some records need advance notice to retrieve.
Types of Family Court Records in Douglas County
Douglas County keeps comprehensive family court records. Divorce decrees are the most requested documents. These prove the marriage has ended. They show how assets were divided. They list alimony if ordered. Custody orders detail parental rights. They specify where children live. They show who makes major decisions.
Child support orders are also on file. These state payment amounts. They show due dates and payment methods. Modifications are recorded when changes occur. Protection orders help keep victims safe. They restrict contact between parties. Violations can result in arrest.
Requesting Family Court Records in Douglas County
You can request family court records in several ways. Visit the courthouse in Castle Rock. This is the fastest method for urgent needs. Staff can locate files while you wait. You can view documents in the public area. Certified copies cost extra. Bring exact change or a credit card.
Mail requests work for non-urgent needs. Send a detailed letter. Include full names of parties. Add the case number if you know it. State the year of filing. Enclose a check for copy fees. Include a self-addressed envelope. Processing takes one to two weeks.
Some records may be restricted. Juvenile cases have privacy protections. Sealed files need a court order to open. Ask staff about access rules.
Online Search Options for Douglas County
Douglas County participates in Colorado's unified court system. You can search records online through the state portal. Visit CoCourts.com to begin. This system covers all Colorado courts.
Search by name or case number. Results show basic case details. You can see filing dates and case status. Some documents may be viewable online. Full records often need an in-person visit. The system is free to use. No account is required for basic searches.
The Colorado Judicial Branch website has more tools. Visit coloradojudicial.gov for guides. Learn how to request records. Find forms and fee schedules.
Legal Resources in Douglas County
Douglas County offers several legal aid options. The courthouse has a self-help center. Staff can provide forms. They can explain court procedures. They cannot give legal advice. For that, you need an attorney.
Colorado Legal Services helps those with low income. They provide free assistance. They handle family law cases. Call to see if you qualify. The Douglas County Bar Association offers referrals. They connect people with local attorneys.
Your right to access records is protected by law. C.R.S. § 13-32-104 covers court records access. This law ensures public oversight of the judicial system.
Nearby Counties
These counties border Douglas County. Make sure you file in the correct county. Residence rules apply to family court cases.