El Paso County Family Court Records
El Paso County family court records are maintained at the 4th Judicial District Courthouse in Colorado Springs. This is the most populous county in the district. The El Paso County Judicial Building houses the main court operations. The address is 270 South Tejon Street. The courthouse serves a large and diverse community.
The 4th Judicial District covers El Paso and Teller counties. Colorado Springs is the county seat. The court handles thousands of family cases yearly. These include divorce, custody, and support matters. The court also processes protection orders.
Where to Find El Paso County Family Court Records
The El Paso County Judicial Building is located at 270 South Tejon Street in Colorado Springs. The zip code is 80903. This is the primary location for family court records. The Clerk's Office handles all record requests. They are open Monday through Friday. Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
You can contact the court by phone. The main number is (719) 452-5490. Email requests go to 04ResearchRequest@judicial.state.co.us. Staff can help locate case files. They can explain access procedures. Bring ID when you visit in person.
The court offers Court Care. This is free childcare for visitors. It helps parents attend hearings. Check availability when you schedule your visit.
Types of Family Court Records in El Paso County
El Paso County keeps extensive family court records. Divorce decrees are most commonly requested. These legal documents end marriages. They divide property between spouses. They award spousal maintenance when appropriate. Custody orders establish parental responsibilities. They set parenting time schedules. They name decision-makers for children.
Child support records are maintained. These show payment obligations. They list income withholding orders. Modifications reflect changes in circumstances. Protection orders are filed here. These prevent contact between parties. They are enforceable by law enforcement.
Most records are public. Some information is confidential. Financial details may be redacted. Children's names may be protected. Ask staff about access levels.
Requesting Family Court Records in El Paso County
El Paso County offers multiple ways to request records. Visit the Clerk's Office in person. This is the fastest option. Staff can retrieve files quickly. You can view documents on site. Certified copies are available. Payment is due at time of service.
Email requests work well. Send your request to 04ResearchRequest@judicial.state.co.us. Include specific case details. List the names of parties. Add the case number if known. State the year of filing. Staff will respond with instructions.
Transcripts have a separate process. Email 04TranscriptRequest@judicial.state.co.us. Court reporters prepare these. Allow extra time for completion. Complex cases take longer.
Online Search Options for El Paso County
El Paso County uses the state court database. You can search cases online. Go to CoCourts.com to start. This portal is free for basic searches. It covers courts statewide.
Search by party name. Or use a case number. Results show case status. You can see filing dates. Some documents may be linked. Full records may need a visit. The system is updated regularly.
The Colorado Judicial Branch website has resources. Visit coloradojudicial.gov for guides. Learn about public records access. Find request forms and fee details.
Legal Resources in El Paso County
El Paso County has many legal help options. The courthouse provides self-help services. Staff can give you forms. They can explain procedures. They cannot give legal advice. Consider hiring an attorney for complex cases.
Colorado Legal Services aids low-income residents. They offer free assistance. They help with divorce and custody. They handle protection orders. Call to check eligibility. The El Paso County Bar Association gives referrals. This connects you with local lawyers.
Access to records is a legal right. C.R.S. § 24-72-203 ensures this access. It supports public oversight of courts. This keeps the system transparent.
Nearby Counties
These counties border El Paso County. Verify your filing jurisdiction. Cases must be filed in the correct county.