Garfield County Family Court Records
Garfield County family court records are housed at the 9th Judicial District Combined Court in Glenwood Springs. This county is in western Colorado. The Colorado River runs through the region. The area includes ski resorts and ranch lands. The court serves a diverse community.
Where to Find Garfield County Family Court Records
The Garfield County Combined Court is in Glenwood Springs. This is the county seat. The courthouse handles all family law cases. Divorce filings are accepted here. Custody disputes are resolved here. Support orders are issued here. Protection orders are processed here.
The 9th Judicial District covers three counties. These are Garfield, Pitkin, and Rio Blanco. Each has its own courthouse. Records remain in the county of filing. Garfield County files stay in Glenwood Springs. You must visit this location to access them.
Mountain weather can affect travel. Check conditions before you drive. Call the court to confirm hours.
Types of Family Court Records in Garfield County
Garfield County maintains complete family court records. Divorce decrees are kept on file. These legally end marriages. They divide marital property. They award spousal maintenance. They allocate marital debts.
Custody orders establish parental rights. They set parenting time schedules. They name decision-making parents. They address transportation between homes. Child support orders specify payments. They show withholding instructions. They list payment due dates.
Protection orders are also maintained. These prevent contact between parties. They protect victims of domestic violence. Violations result in arrest.
Requesting Family Court Records in Garfield County
Garfield County offers several ways to request records. Visit the courthouse in Glenwood Springs. This provides immediate access. Staff will help you find files. You can view records on site. Copies are available for purchase. Payment is due at the time of service.
Mail requests are accepted. Write a detailed letter. Include the names of parties. Add the case number if known. State the year of filing. Enclose payment for copies. Include a self-addressed envelope. Allow two to three weeks for processing.
Some records have access limits. Juvenile cases are confidential. Sealed files need a court order. Ask staff about restrictions. They can explain the requirements.
Online Search Options for Garfield County
Garfield County uses the state court database. You can search cases online. Visit CoCourts.com to begin. This portal is free to use. It covers all Colorado courts.
Search by party name. Or use a case number. Results show case status. Filing dates are displayed. Some documents may be linked. Full files may need an in-person visit. Not all records are digitized.
The Colorado Judicial Branch website has resources. Visit coloradojudicial.gov for guides. Learn about public records access. Find request forms and fees.
Legal Resources in Garfield County
Garfield County residents can access legal aid. The courthouse provides self-help materials. Staff can give you forms. They can explain procedures. They cannot provide legal advice. For that, hire an attorney.
Colorado Legal Services helps low-income clients. They offer free assistance. They handle family law matters. They assist with protection orders. Call to check your eligibility. The Colorado Bar offers lawyer referrals. This helps you find qualified help.
Your right to access records is protected. C.R.S. § 24-72-203 ensures this access. It supports government transparency. This keeps courts accountable to the public.
Nearby Counties
These counties border Garfield County. Verify your filing jurisdiction. Cases must be filed in the proper county.