Rio Grande County Family Court Records

Rio Grande County family court records are public documents. The county sits in the 12th Judicial District of Colorado. Del Norte serves as the county seat. The Rio Grande County Courthouse houses all family court cases. You can find divorce files and custody orders here. These records help people who need copies.

The 12th Judicial District covers six counties in the San Luis Valley. Rio Grande County is rural. The Rio Grande River runs through it. The valley is wide and beautiful. Agriculture is strong here. Court filings are steady. Each case gets attention. Staff keep records in order. They follow Colorado Judicial Branch rules. Access follows state public records law.

Family cases include divorce and custody. Child support matters are common. The court hears protection order requests. Each case has a unique number. This tracks the file.

Where to Find Rio Grande County Family Court Records

The Rio Grande County Courthouse is in Del Norte. The address is 965 6th Street. This is where you get records in person. You can visit during business hours. Staff can help you find files. They can make copies. Call ahead to check hours.

The 12th Judicial District includes Alamosa, Conejos, Costilla, Mineral, and Saguache counties. Some cases may involve parties from these areas. Check where the case was filed. This saves travel.

You can use the online request form. This helps if you live far away. The form needs case details. Include names and dates. Fees may apply.

Types of Family Court Records in Rio Grande County

Rio Grande County keeps several types of family records. Divorce decrees are common. These papers end a marriage. They list terms about property and debt. They state custody plans. Certified copies are available.

Custody orders are on file. These show where children live. They list visit schedules. Child support orders state payment amounts. These records help parents.

Common family records include:

• Divorce decrees
• Child custody orders
• Child support orders
• Protection orders
• Name change orders

Requesting Family Court Records in Rio Grande County

You have options for records. The best way is to visit the courthouse in Del Norte. Bring photo ID. Know the case number. Bring the names of the parties. The year helps. Staff can search.

If you cannot visit, use mail or email. Send requests to the clerk. Include all details. Give your contact info. State what copies you need. Fees may apply.

The court follows Colorado Open Records laws. These are C.R.S. § 24-72-201 and C.R.S. § 24-72-203. Most records are public. Some may be sealed. These need a court order.

Online Search Options for Rio Grande County

Colorado offers online tools for court records. The main site is www.cocourts.com. You can search by name. You can search by case number. Basic info is free. Some documents cost money.

The online system does not have every document. Some older cases may not be in the system. You must visit the court for these. The system updates daily.

Legal Resources in Rio Grande County

Rio Grande County residents can get help. The 12th Judicial District has resources. Call the courthouse for guidance. Staff can explain forms. They can help you understand. They do not give legal advice.

Court costs follow state law. C.R.S. § 13-32-104 sets fees. You may ask for a fee waiver. Forms are at the courthouse. Staff can explain.

The state website has guides. This guide explains record access. Read it before visiting.