Otero County Family Court Records
Otero County sits on the southeast plains of Colorado. It is part of the 16th Judicial District. La Junta serves as the county seat. The Otero County Courthouse handles all family court cases. You can find divorce records, custody orders, and support documents here. These records are public under state law.
The 16th Judicial District includes three counties. These are Bent, Crowley, and Otero. The district covers a rural area of southeast Colorado. La Junta is the largest city in the district. The court serves residents across this area. Staff work to keep records organized. Access follows Colorado public records law.
Where to Find Otero County Family Court Records
The Otero County Courthouse is at 13 West Third Street in La Junta. This building houses all court offices. Family court records are stored here. You can visit during business hours. Staff can help you find files. Call (719) 384-4951 before you visit.
La Junta sits along U.S. Highway 50. The courthouse is in the downtown area. It is easy to find. Parking is available nearby. The building is open on weekdays. Hours may vary on holidays.
Types of Family Court Records in Otero County
Otero County keeps standard family court records. Divorce decrees are most common. These papers prove a marriage has ended. They list property terms. They include custody plans. You may need a certified copy.
Other records include custody and support orders. These state where children will live. They set visit times. Child support orders show payment amounts. All these records are public in most cases.
Protection orders are filed here too. These help people stay safe. The court can order someone to stay away. Records are public.
Requesting Family Court Records in Otero County
To get records, start with a phone call. Dial (719) 384-4951. Ask about the case. Give the names of the parties. Staff can check if the file exists.
Visiting in person is fastest. Bring photo ID. Know the case details. Staff can pull the file while you wait. Copies cost a fee per page. Certified copies cost more.
The court follows C.R.S. § 24-72-201 and C.R.S. § 24-72-203. These laws say most records are public. You have a right to view them.
Online Search Options for Otero County
Colorado offers online access to court records. The Colorado Judicial Branch website has a search tool. You can look up Otero County cases. Search by name or case number. Basic info is free.
Not all documents are online. For full records, visit the court. The online system updates daily.
Here are ways to search:
- Use cocourts.com for case lookup
- Search by party name or case number
- View case status and hearing dates
- Access some documents for a fee
Legal Resources in Otero County
The 16th Judicial District offers help for self-represented parties. The court may have forms and guides. These help people without lawyers. Ask the clerk what is available.
Court fees follow state law. C.R.S. § 13-32-104 sets the amounts. You can request a fee waiver if needed. Forms are at the courthouse.