Denver County Divorce Records
What Are Denver County Divorce Records?
Denver County divorce records are official legal documents maintained by the Denver District Court that document the dissolution of marriage within the county. These records are governed by the Colorado Revised Statutes § 14-10-101, which establishes the legal framework for marriage dissolution in the state. Divorce records in Denver County serve as the authoritative documentation of a marriage's legal termination.
Denver County divorce records typically include:
- Petition for dissolution of marriage
- Summons
- Response from the respondent spouse
- Financial disclosures
- Separation agreement (if applicable)
- Parenting plan (if children are involved)
- Final decree of dissolution
- Certificate of dissolution of marriage
These records serve multiple important purposes for individuals and institutions:
- Legal proof of marital status change
- Documentation required for remarriage
- Evidence for name change processes
- Verification for Social Security benefits claims
- Supporting documentation for loan applications
- Required evidence for immigration matters
- Historical documentation for genealogical research
The Denver District Court maintains these records as part of its official duties in administering family law cases within the county.
Are Denver County Divorce Records Public?
Denver County divorce records have a nuanced public access status that varies by document type and information sensitivity. Generally, court divorce case files are considered public records under the Colorado Open Records Act § 24-72-201, but with significant exceptions and limitations.
The public accessibility of divorce records in Denver County is structured as follows:
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Court Case Files: Basic case information including party names, case numbers, and filing dates is publicly accessible through the court's records system.
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Court Proceedings: Divorce hearings are typically open to the public unless specifically closed by a judge.
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Divorce Decrees: The final judgment dissolving the marriage is generally public, though certain sensitive information may be redacted.
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Financial Disclosures: Detailed financial information may be restricted from public view to protect privacy.
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Child-Related Documents: Records containing information about minor children, including custody arrangements and child support, have restricted access under Colorado Revised Statutes § 19-1-307.
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Certified Divorce Certificates: These have restricted access and are available only to:
- Parties to the divorce
- Legal representatives of the parties
- Individuals with a direct and tangible interest
- Persons with a court order authorizing access
The Denver District Court balances the public's right to access government records with individuals' privacy interests, particularly in family law matters. Certain information within divorce records may be sealed or redacted when disclosure would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy or when protected by specific statutory provisions.
How To Find a Divorce Record In Denver County in 2026
Finding divorce records in Denver County requires following specific procedures established by the court system. Members of the public seeking divorce records may utilize the following methods:
In-Person Requests at the Denver District Court
- Visit the Denver District Court Clerk's Office during regular business hours.
- Complete a records request form, providing case number if known, or names and approximate date of divorce.
- Present valid photo identification.
- Pay applicable search and copy fees.
Denver District Court
1437 Bannock Street, Room 256
Denver, CO 80202
720-865-8301
Denver District Court
Mail Requests
- Download and complete the Court Records Request Form from the Colorado Judicial Branch website.
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
- Enclose a check or money order for applicable fees.
- Mail to the Denver District Court address.
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
For certified copies of divorce certificates (not full court records):
- Submit an application to the Vital Records Section.
- Provide proper identification and proof of direct interest.
- Pay the required fee.
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South
Denver, CO 80246
303-692-2200
Colorado DPHE Vital Records
Pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes § 25-2-117, requestors must demonstrate eligibility to receive certified copies of vital records, including divorce certificates.
How To Look Up Divorce Records in Denver County Online?
Denver County offers several digital pathways for accessing divorce records online, though the level of detail available varies by platform and user authorization.
Colorado Courts E-Filing System (CCES)
Attorneys and registered users can access case information and documents through:
- Navigate to the Colorado Courts E-Filing portal.
- Log in with registered credentials.
- Search by case number, party name, or filing date.
- View available documents and case information.
Colorado Courts Records Search
The public can access basic case information through:
- Visit the Colorado Courts Records Search.
- Select "Denver County" from the jurisdiction dropdown.
- Enter search criteria (names of parties, case number).
- Review basic case information (filing date, case type, party names, case status).
Note that this system provides limited information and does not display document images or detailed case information.
Denver District Court Records Department
For more comprehensive online access:
- Contact the Records Department at 720-865-8301.
- Request specific case information.
- Inquire about remote access options for authorized users.
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Online Orders
For certified divorce certificates:
- Visit the CDPHE Vital Records Online Ordering System.
- Create an account or log in.
- Select "Divorce Certificate" from the document types.
- Provide required information and documentation of eligibility.
- Pay applicable fees.
Online access to divorce records is governed by Colorado Judicial Branch Public Access Policy, which balances transparency with privacy protections.
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Denver County?
While obtaining official copies of divorce records typically involves fees, Denver County residents have several options for accessing basic divorce record information at no cost:
Denver Public Library - Western History Collection
The Denver Public Library maintains historical records that may include divorce information:
- Visit the Western History Collection at the Central Library.
- Use the genealogy resources and newspaper archives.
- Access historical court records that may reference divorces.
Denver Public Library
10 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy.
Denver, CO 80204
720-865-1111
Denver Public Library
Public Access Terminals at Denver District Court
- Visit the Denver District Court during regular business hours.
- Use the public access terminals in the clerk's office.
- Search basic case information at no charge.
- Note that printing or obtaining copies will incur fees.
Denver District Court
1437 Bannock Street, Room 256
Denver, CO 80202
720-865-8301
Denver District Court
Colorado Courts Records Search
This free online resource provides limited case information:
- Visit the Colorado Courts Records Search.
- Search by party name or case number.
- View basic case information at no charge.
Self-Help Center at Denver District Court
The court's self-help center provides assistance in locating records:
- Visit the Self-Help Center during operating hours.
- Request assistance from staff in locating basic case information.
- Receive guidance on the most cost-effective ways to access needed information.
Denver District Court Self-Help Center
1437 Bannock Street, Room 281
Denver, CO 80202
720-865-8440
Denver District Court Self-Help Resources
While basic information may be available at no cost, pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes § 24-72-306, fees may be charged for searches, certified copies, and document reproduction.
What's Included in a Divorce Records In Denver County
Denver County divorce records comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the entire dissolution process. These records contain several distinct components:
Court Case File Documents
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage: The initial filing that states grounds for divorce and requested relief
- Summons: Official notice to the respondent spouse about the divorce action
- Response/Answer: The respondent spouse's formal reply to the petition
- Case Information Sheet: Basic data about the parties and the marriage
- Proof of Service: Documentation showing the respondent was properly notified
- Financial Affidavits: Sworn statements detailing each party's assets, debts, income, and expenses
- Separation Agreement: The parties' negotiated settlement of property division and support issues
- Parenting Plan: Detailed arrangements for child custody, visitation, and decision-making (if applicable)
- Child Support Worksheets: Calculations of child support obligations based on state guidelines
- Temporary Orders: Court directives governing conduct and support during the pendency of the case
- Motions and Responses: Requests for court action and opposing party's replies
- Court Orders: Judicial decisions on various issues throughout the case
- Transcripts: Official records of hearings and testimony (if requested)
- Final Decree of Dissolution: The judge's final order terminating the marriage
- Certificate of Dissolution: Official record of the divorce completion
Vital Records Component
- Certificate of Divorce/Dissolution: The official vital record documenting the divorce
- Statistical information collected for state demographic purposes
Confidential Components
Certain documents within divorce files may be classified as confidential:
- Social Security numbers
- Financial account numbers
- Detailed information about minor children
- Sensitive health or medical information
- Victim address information in cases involving domestic violence
- Restricted personal data protected under Colorado Revised Statutes § 19-1-307
The Denver District Court maintains these records in accordance with state retention schedules and access policies established by the Colorado Judicial Department.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In Denver County?
Obtaining official proof of divorce in Denver County requires following specific procedures established by the court system and vital records office. Individuals seeking verification of divorce have two primary options:
Certified Copy of Divorce Decree from Denver District Court
- Visit the Denver District Court Records Department in person.
- Complete a Records Request Form, providing:
- Full names of both parties
- Date of divorce (approximate if exact date unknown)
- Case number (if known)
- Present valid government-issued photo identification.
- Pay the certification fee (currently $20 for the first page, $0.75 for each additional page).
- Receive the certified copy, typically same day for in-person requests if records are readily accessible.
Denver District Court Records Department
1437 Bannock Street, Room 256
Denver, CO 80202
720-865-8301
Denver District Court
Certified Divorce Certificate from Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
For divorces finalized after 1968:
- Submit an application to the Vital Records Section.
- Provide proper identification (driver's license, passport, or state ID).
- Demonstrate eligibility under Colorado Revised Statutes § 25-2-117 as:
- Named party on the record
- Direct family member
- Legal representative
- Person with legal interest
- Pay the required fee (currently $20 for first copy, $13 for each additional copy ordered simultaneously).
- Submit request in person, by mail, or online.
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South
Denver, CO 80246
303-692-2200
Colorado DPHE Vital Records
Mail Requests to Denver District Court
- Send a written request including all information listed above.
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
- Enclose a check or money order for applicable fees.
- Allow 2-3 weeks for processing.
For urgent needs, expedited service may be available for an additional fee. Certified copies from either source are legally valid proof of divorce for most purposes, including remarriage, name changes, and immigration matters.
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Denver County?
Divorce proceedings in Denver County operate under a presumption of public access, but Colorado law provides several mechanisms for maintaining confidentiality in appropriate circumstances. The court balances transparency with privacy protections through various measures:
Sealing Court Records
Under Colorado Rules of Civil Procedure 121 § 1-5, parties may petition the court to seal divorce records when:
- Disclosure would pose substantial injury to the public interest
- Privacy interests outweigh the public's right to access
- No less restrictive means exist to protect sensitive information
The court requires a specific showing of good cause and will only seal records after finding that:
- The harm to privacy substantially outweighs public interest
- No less restrictive means would adequately protect the privacy interest
Suppression of Personal Identifiers
Pursuant to Colorado Judicial Department Public Access Policy, certain information is automatically protected:
- Social Security numbers
- Financial account numbers
- Driver's license numbers
- Minor children's identifying information
Confidential Financial Disclosures
Financial affidavits and supporting documentation may receive heightened protection under Colorado Rules of Civil Procedure 16.2.
Domestic Violence Protections
When domestic violence is involved, additional confidentiality measures may include:
- Address confidentiality under the Colorado Address Confidentiality Program
- Restricted access to victim information
- Sealed court proceedings when necessary for safety
Confidential Alternative Dispute Resolution
Mediation communications and records are confidential under the Colorado Dispute Resolution Act § 13-22-307.
Private Divorce Agreements
While the divorce decree itself remains a public record, parties may:
- Keep settlement terms private through confidentiality agreements
- Reference separate, private agreements in the public decree
- Use initials instead of full names in certain circumstances
The Denver District Court evaluates confidentiality requests on a case-by-case basis, requiring specific showings of need rather than granting blanket confidentiality.
How Long Does a Divorce Take In Denver County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in Denver County varies significantly based on multiple factors. Colorado law establishes a minimum waiting period, but the actual timeline depends on case complexity and the parties' cooperation.
Statutory Waiting Period
Under Colorado Revised Statutes § 14-10-106(1)(a)(II), the court cannot enter a decree of dissolution until at least 91 days have passed since:
- The court acquires jurisdiction over the respondent, or
- The respondent files a response or waiver of service
Uncontested Divorces
When parties agree on all issues, the process typically takes:
- 3-4 months from filing to finalization
- Requires completion of financial disclosures
- May be resolved without court appearances if all paperwork is properly filed
According to the Colorado Judicial Branch, approximately 45% of Denver County divorces are resolved as uncontested matters.
Contested Divorces
When parties disagree on significant issues, timelines extend considerably:
- 6-12 months for moderately contested cases
- 12-18 months for highly contested matters
- 18+ months for complex cases involving substantial assets or custody disputes
Factors Affecting Timeline
Several variables influence the duration of Denver County divorces:
- Court caseload and scheduling availability
- Complexity of asset division
- Child custody and parenting time disputes
- Need for expert witnesses (financial, psychological, etc.)
- Discovery disputes and motion practice
- Temporary orders hearings
- Mediation or alternative dispute resolution attempts
- Attorney scheduling conflicts
- Judicial officer reassignments
Denver District Court Statistics
According to data from the Colorado Judicial Branch Annual Statistical Report, Denver County divorce cases currently average:
- 120 days for uncontested divorces
- 273 days for contested divorces without significant custody issues
- 365+ days for contested divorces with significant custody disputes
The Denver District Court has implemented case management procedures to promote timely resolution, including early case management conferences, settlement conferences, and mediation referrals.
How Long Does Denver County Keep Divorce Records?
Denver County maintains divorce records according to a structured retention schedule established by the Colorado Judicial Department. These retention periods vary by record type and ensure the preservation of important legal documentation.
Court Case Files
The Denver District Court retains complete divorce case files according to the following schedule:
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Active Case Files: Maintained in readily accessible storage while cases are pending or recently concluded.
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Closed Case Files: After final disposition, files are retained for 10 years in accordance with Colorado Judicial Department Directive 05-01.
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Cases Involving Minor Children: Files are retained until the youngest child reaches age 19, or 10 years after case closure, whichever is longer.
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Cases with Continuing Jurisdiction: Records are maintained as active files as long as the court retains jurisdiction over any aspect of the case.
Divorce Certificates
The vital records component of divorce documentation follows a different retention schedule:
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Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment: Maintains permanent records of all divorce certificates filed since 1968 pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes § 25-2-117.
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Pre-1968 Records: Maintained by the Denver District Court Clerk's Office indefinitely.
Electronic Records
As Denver County has transitioned to electronic record-keeping:
- Records created after 2000 are generally maintained in electronic format indefinitely.
- Paper records may be digitized and the originals destroyed after the mandatory retention period.
- Electronic case management systems preserve basic case information permanently.
Historical Records
Divorce records with historical significance may be:
- Transferred to the Colorado State Archives after the mandatory retention period
- Preserved permanently as part of the state's historical record
- Made available for historical and genealogical research
The Colorado State Archives maintains selected court records dating back to territorial days, including some divorce proceedings of historical significance.
Individuals seeking older divorce records should note that records may be stored in different locations based on age, with different retrieval procedures and timeframes.
How To Get a Divorce In Denver County
Obtaining a divorce in Denver County requires following specific legal procedures established under Colorado law. The process involves several distinct steps:
Determine Eligibility
Before filing, verify that you meet jurisdictional requirements:
- At least one spouse must have been a Colorado resident for 91 days prior to filing
- The case should be filed in the county where either spouse resides
Prepare Required Documents
The following forms are necessary to initiate a divorce in Denver County:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (JDF 1101)
- Summons for Dissolution of Marriage (JDF 1102)
- Case Information Sheet (JDF 1000)
- Filing fee payment or fee waiver request (JDF 205)
File Documents with Denver District Court
- Submit completed forms to:
Denver District Court - Domestic Relations Division
1437 Bannock Street, Room 256
Denver, CO 80202
720-865-8301
Denver District Court
- Pay the filing fee (currently $230) or submit a fee waiver application if eligible.
Serve the Other Spouse
- Arrange for the respondent spouse to be served with the petition and summons by:
- Private process server
- Sheriff's department
- Any person over 18 who is not a party to the case
- File proof of service with the court.
- Alternatively, the respondent may sign a waiver of service.
Complete Financial Disclosures
Both parties must exchange:
- Sworn Financial Statement (JDF 1111)
- Supporting financial documentation
- Certificate of Compliance with Financial Disclosures (JDF 1104)
Develop Agreements or Prepare for Contested Issues
Parties must address:
- Division of marital property and debts
- Spousal maintenance (if applicable)
- Allocation of parental responsibilities (if children involved)
- Child support (if children involved)
Attend Initial Status Conference
The court schedules an initial conference to:
- Review case status
- Identify contested issues
- Set deadlines for case progression
- Refer to mediation if appropriate
Finalize the Divorce
After the 91-day waiting period required by Colorado Revised Statutes § 14-10-106:
- Submit Decree of Dissolution (JDF 1116)
- Submit Separation Agreement (JDF 1115) if settled
- Attend final hearing if required
Self-Help Resources
The Denver District Court provides assistance through:
Denver District Court Self-Help Center
1437 Bannock Street, Room 281
Denver, CO 80202
720-865-8440
Denver District Court Self-Help Resources
The center offers:
- Form packets
- Procedural information
- Referrals to legal resources
- Assistance with document completion
How To Get Divorce Papers In Denver County
Obtaining divorce papers in Denver County can be accomplished through several methods, depending on whether you are initiating a divorce or responding to one. The following options are available to Denver County residents:
Denver District Court Self-Help Center
The most direct source for divorce forms and assistance:
- Visit the Self-Help Center during regular business hours.
- Request the divorce packet appropriate to your situation.
- Receive guidance on form completion from court facilitators.
- Access computers and printers to complete forms on-site.
Denver District Court Self-Help Center
1437 Bannock Street, Room 281
Denver, CO 80202
720-865-8440
Denver District Court Self-Help Resources
Colorado Judicial Branch Website
All required divorce forms are available for free download:
- Visit the Colorado Judicial Branch Forms page.
- Select "Divorce, Family Matters, Civil Unions" category.
- Download the appropriate forms in PDF format.
- Forms are fillable electronically or can be printed and completed by hand.
Denver Public Library
Library branches offer computer access and assistance:
- Visit any Denver Public Library location.
- Use public computers to access and print court forms.
- Request assistance from reference librarians in locating resources.
Denver Public Library - Central Library
10 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy.
Denver, CO 80204
720-865-1111
Denver Public Library
Legal Aid Organizations
Free or low-cost assistance for qualifying individuals:
Colorado Legal Services
1905 Sherman Street, Suite 400
Denver, CO 80203
303-837-1313
Colorado Legal Services
Denver Bar Association
Referrals to attorneys and legal clinics:
Metro Volunteer Lawyers
1290 Broadway, Suite 1700
Denver, CO 80203
303-830-8210
Metro Volunteer Lawyers
Required Forms for Divorce in Denver County
The basic divorce packet typically includes:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (JDF 1101)
- Summons for Dissolution of Marriage (JDF 1102)
- Case Information Sheet (JDF 1000)
- Sworn Financial Statement (JDF 1111)
- Certificate of Compliance (JDF 1104)
- Decree of Dissolution (JDF 1116)
- Separation Agreement (JDF 1115)
Additional forms are required for cases involving children:
- Parenting Plan (JDF 1113)
- Child Support Worksheets (JDF 1820 or 1821)
- Support Order (JDF 1117)
All forms must comply with requirements established under Colorado Rules of Civil Procedure 16.2 governing domestic relations cases.