Broomfield County Public Records /Broomfield County Divorce Records

Broomfield County Divorce Records

What Are Broomfield County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Broomfield County are official legal documents that provide documentation of the dissolution of marriage between two individuals. These records are maintained by the Broomfield County District Court and constitute part of the public record system in accordance with Colorado Revised Statutes § 14-10-107, which governs dissolution of marriage proceedings in the state.

Divorce records typically include several categories of documents:

Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
Summons
Response to the Petition
Financial disclosures
Separation agreements
Child custody and support arrangements
Court orders and judgments
Final Decree of Dissolution of Marriage

These records serve multiple important functions for individuals and society. Divorce records are commonly used for:

Legal proof of marital status change
Documentation for remarriage purposes
Evidence for name change processes
Verification for Social Security benefits
Supporting documentation for loan applications
Required evidence for immigration matters
Historical and genealogical research

The Broomfield County District Court maintains these records as part of its judicial responsibilities under Colorado law. The Broomfield County District Court serves as the primary repository for divorce records filed within the county jurisdiction.

Are Broomfield County Divorce Records Public?

Broomfield County divorce records have a complex public access status that varies depending on the specific document type and information contained therein. 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 Broomfield County is governed by the following principles:

Court Case Files: Most divorce court proceedings and associated documents are generally accessible to the public, with certain exceptions. Members of the public may access basic case information and non-confidential documents through the court clerk's office or online systems.
Restricted Information: Pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes § 25-2-117, certain personal information within divorce records is protected from public disclosure, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Financial account information
- Detailed information about minor children
- Victim information in cases involving domestic violence
- Medical and psychological evaluations
Sealed Records: In certain circumstances, the court may order divorce records to be sealed or redacted if disclosure would cause undue harm, compromise safety, or violate privacy rights beyond standard protections.
Certified Divorce Certificates: Official divorce certificates, which verify the fact of divorce rather than providing case details, have restricted access. These documents are available only to the parties involved in the divorce, their legal representatives, or individuals with a direct interest as determined by Colorado vital records laws.

Access to divorce records requires proper identification and may involve fees for searches and copies. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment maintains vital records including divorce certificates, while the Broomfield County District Court maintains the full case files.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Broomfield County in 2026

Finding divorce records in Broomfield County requires following specific procedures depending on the type of record sought and its age. The following steps provide guidance for locating these documents:

For Recent Divorce Records (Less than 20 years old):

Contact the Broomfield County District Court directly:

Broomfield Combined Courts
17 DesCombes Drive
Broomfield, CO 80020
Phone: 303-464-5020
Broomfield County District Court

Prepare the following information before contacting the court:
- Full names of both parties (including maiden names if applicable)
- Approximate date of divorce filing or finalization
- Case number (if known)
- Your relationship to the case
Complete the Record/Document Request Form provided by the Colorado Judicial Branch.
Submit the form along with required identification and applicable fees. Current fees include:
- $0.75 per page for copies
- $20.00 for certification of documents
- Research fees may apply for searches requiring extensive staff time
For certified copies of divorce decrees, specify this requirement on the request form.

For Historical Divorce Records (More than 20 years old):

Contact the Colorado State Archives which maintains older court records.
Provide the same identifying information as listed above.
Be prepared to pay applicable research and copy fees.

Requests may be submitted in person, by mail, or in some cases through online systems. Processing times vary based on the complexity of the search and current departmental workloads.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Broomfield County Online?

Broomfield County offers several digital options for accessing divorce records online, though the level of detail available varies by system. The following methods provide electronic access to divorce record information:

Colorado Courts E-Filing System (CCES)
- This system is primarily designed for attorneys and parties to active cases
- Requires registration and login credentials
- Provides access to documents in cases where you are a named party
- Visit the Colorado Judicial Branch website to register
Colorado Courts Records Search
- Offers public access to basic case information
- Available through the Colorado Judicial Branch Docket Search
- Search parameters include:
  - Party names
  - Case number
  - Filing date range
- Provides case status, filing dates, scheduled hearings, and party information
- Does not display full document images for most divorce cases
Colorado State Archives Online Index
- Useful for historical divorce records
- Searchable by name and county
- Provides reference information to request full records
- Available through the Colorado State Archives website
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Online Ordering
- For certified divorce certificates (verification of divorce only)
- Restricted to eligible parties (former spouses, legal representatives)
- Requires identity verification
- Available through the CDPHE Vital Records portal

When using online systems, users should note that pursuant to Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-1-119.5, certain sensitive information is automatically redacted from publicly accessible online records, even when such information may be available in person at the courthouse.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Broomfield County?

While obtaining certified copies of divorce records typically involves fees, there are several methods to access basic divorce record information in Broomfield County at no cost:

Public Access Terminals at the Courthouse
- The Broomfield County Combined Courts provides public access terminals for free on-site searches
- Located at: 17 DesCombes Drive, Broomfield, CO 80020
- Available during regular business hours: 7:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday
- No fee for viewing records, though printing costs may apply ($0.75 per page)
- No appointment necessary, but photo identification is required
Basic Online Case Information
- The Colorado Judicial Branch Docket Search provides free access to basic case information
- Includes case numbers, filing dates, party names, and case status
- Does not include document images or detailed case information
- No registration or fee required for basic searches
Public Libraries
- The Broomfield Library offers free public computer access
- Library staff may provide assistance with navigating public records databases
- Located at: 3 Community Park Road, Broomfield, CO 80020
- Library card may be required for computer access
Colorado State Archives Research Room
- For historical records (typically older than 20 years)
- Free on-site research available
- Located at: 1313 Sherman Street, Room 120, Denver, CO 80203
- Advance appointment recommended

When utilizing free access methods, researchers should note that while viewing basic record information may be free, obtaining copies, certified documents, or comprehensive case files will typically involve standard fees as established by the Colorado Judicial Department and other relevant agencies.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Broomfield County

Divorce records in Broomfield County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the legal dissolution process from initiation to conclusion. These records typically contain the following components:

Initial Filings:

Petition for Dissolution of Marriage - The formal request to terminate the marriage, filed by one spouse (petitioner)
Summons - Official notification to the other spouse (respondent) about the divorce proceedings
Response or Answer - The respondent's formal reply to the petition
Case Information Sheet - Basic demographic and contact information for both parties

Financial Documentation:

Sworn Financial Statements - Detailed disclosure of assets, debts, income, and expenses
Certificate of Compliance - Confirmation that mandatory financial disclosures have been exchanged
Property division agreements - Documentation of how marital property and debts are allocated
Maintenance (alimony) determinations - If applicable, details regarding spousal support

Child-Related Documents (if applicable):

Parenting Plan - Detailed arrangements for parental responsibilities and decision-making
Child Support Worksheets - Calculations determining support obligations
Child Support Orders - Court-mandated financial support requirements

Court Proceedings:

Temporary Orders - Interim arrangements during the pendency of the divorce
Mediation Reports - Summaries of alternative dispute resolution attempts
Hearing Transcripts - Official records of court proceedings
Expert Evaluations - Reports from custody evaluators, financial analysts, or other specialists

Final Documents:

Separation Agreement - The comprehensive contract detailing all terms of the divorce
Decree of Dissolution of Marriage - The final judgment that legally terminates the marriage
Support Orders - Final determinations regarding child and/or spousal support
Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) - Special orders for dividing retirement accounts

The content and extent of divorce records vary significantly based on whether the divorce was contested or uncontested, the presence of children, the complexity of financial assets, and other case-specific factors. All documents become part of the official court record maintained by the Broomfield County District Court in accordance with Colorado judicial record-keeping requirements.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Broomfield County?

Obtaining official proof of divorce in Broomfield County requires following specific procedures depending on the type of documentation needed and its intended use. The following methods are available for securing proof of divorce:

For Certified Copy of Divorce Decree:

Contact the Broomfield County District Court directly:

Broomfield Combined Courts
17 DesCombes Drive
Broomfield, CO 80020
Phone: 303-464-5020
Broomfield County District Court

Complete the Record/Document Request Form from the Colorado Judicial Branch.
Provide the following information:
- Full names of both parties to the divorce
- Date of divorce (approximate if exact date unknown)
- Case number (if known)
- Your relationship to the case
Submit proper identification. Acceptable forms include:
- Valid government-issued photo ID
- If requesting by mail, include a notarized statement verifying identity
Pay the required fees:
- $20.00 for certification of documents
- $0.75 per page for copies
- Payment methods include cash, credit card, money order, or cashier's check

For Certificate of Divorce (Verification Document):

For divorces finalized after 1968, contact:

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
Vital Records Section
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South
Denver, CO 80246
Phone: 303-692-2200
Colorado Vital Records

Complete the Certificate of Divorce application form available on the CDPHE website.
Provide required identification and proof of relationship or legal interest.
Submit the current fee of $20 for a certificate of divorce.
Requests may be submitted in person, by mail, or through the online ordering system.

Processing times vary based on current workload and the method of request. In-person requests at the court may be fulfilled the same day, while mail requests typically require 7-10 business days. Expedited processing options may be available for an additional fee in certain circumstances.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Broomfield County?

While divorce proceedings in Broomfield County are generally matters of public record, Colorado law provides several mechanisms through which certain aspects of divorce cases may be kept confidential. The following provisions address privacy concerns in divorce proceedings:

Sealing of Records:

Pursuant to Colorado Public Access to Court Records Rule (P.A.C.R.) 2, the court may order divorce records sealed or redacted under specific circumstances:

When public access would create significant risk of substantial harm to an individual
When privacy interests outweigh the public interest in access
When required by statute, court rule, or court order
When necessary to protect trade secrets or other confidential business information

Automatically Confidential Information:

Certain categories of information are automatically protected from public disclosure in divorce proceedings:

Social Security numbers
Financial account numbers
Driver's license numbers
Names of minor children (in some contexts)
Victim information in cases involving domestic violence
Mental health evaluations
Medical records

Domestic Violence Protections:

In cases involving domestic violence, additional confidentiality measures may be implemented:

Address Confidentiality Program participation under C.R.S. § 24-30-2101
Restricted access to victim contact information
Sealed testimony regarding abuse

Confidential Financial Disclosures:

While financial disclosures are required in divorce proceedings, detailed financial information may receive heightened protection:

Sworn Financial Statements may be filed as "protected" documents
Tax returns and supporting financial documentation may be restricted from public access
Business valuation reports containing proprietary information may be sealed

To request confidentiality for divorce records, parties must file a motion with the court demonstrating specific grounds for restriction of public access. The court balances privacy interests against the presumption of public access to court records when making determinations about confidentiality. Even when records are sealed from general public access, they remain available to the parties, their attorneys, and authorized court personnel.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Broomfield County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Broomfield County varies significantly based on multiple factors related to case complexity and the level of agreement between parties. The following timeframes and factors influence the divorce process timeline:

Statutory Minimum Timeframe:

Colorado law imposes a mandatory 91-day waiting period from the date of service of the petition or the respondent's appearance in court, whichever occurs first, as established in Colorado Revised Statutes § 14-10-106(1)(a)(II)
No divorce decree can be issued before this 91-day period expires, regardless of agreement between parties

Uncontested Divorces:

When parties agree on all issues (property division, debt allocation, parenting responsibilities, support)
Typical timeframe: 91-120 days from filing to finalization
Factors affecting duration:
- Completeness of initial paperwork
- Court scheduling availability
- Processing time for mandatory disclosures

Contested Divorces:

When parties disagree on one or more substantive issues
Typical timeframe: 6-12 months
Complex contested cases may extend to 18-24 months
Factors affecting duration:
- Number and complexity of disputed issues
- Court docket congestion
- Attorney scheduling conflicts
- Need for expert witnesses (financial evaluators, custody evaluators)
- Discovery disputes

Procedural Factors Affecting Timeline:

Alternative Dispute Resolution requirements
- Mediation is often required before trial settings
- Successful mediation can significantly reduce timeframes
Temporary Orders hearings
- May add 30-60 days to process
- Establish interim arrangements while divorce proceeds
Evaluations and Assessments
- Child and Family Investigator reports: 60-90 days
- Parental Responsibility Evaluations: 90-120 days
- Business valuations: 60-90 days

According to statistics from the Colorado Judicial Branch, the median time from filing to disposition for dissolution of marriage cases in Broomfield County is approximately 230 days, though this varies significantly based on case complexity and the factors outlined above.

How Long Does Broomfield County Keep Divorce Records?

Broomfield County maintains divorce records according to a structured retention schedule that varies based on record type, age, and historical significance. The following retention periods apply to divorce records in accordance with the Colorado Judicial Department Records Retention Manual:

District Court Divorce Case Files:

Active Case Files: Maintained at the Broomfield County District Court while cases are pending or recently concluded
- Location: Broomfield Combined Courts, 17 DesCombes Drive, Broomfield, CO 80020
- Retention period: Minimum of 10 years from date of final decree
Semi-Active Records: After the initial retention period
- Transferred to centralized storage facilities
- Accessible through formal request processes
- Retention period: Additional 10-20 years depending on case significance
Historical Records: Cases with historical or precedential significance
- Permanently preserved
- Eventually transferred to the Colorado State Archives
- Selection criteria include: precedent-setting cases, cases involving prominent individuals, cases illustrating significant social trends

Divorce Certificates and Vital Records:

Maintained permanently by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
Records from 1968 to present remain with CDPHE
Records prior to 1968 may be maintained by county offices or the State Archives

Electronic Records:

Modern divorce case information is maintained in digital format
Digital retention follows the same schedule as paper records
Basic case information is retained permanently in court management systems
Full document images may be subject to eventual purging based on retention schedules

Accessing Older Records:

For divorce records that have exceeded their retention period at the District Court:

Contact the Colorado State Archives for records that have been transferred to archival storage
For records that may have been destroyed pursuant to retention schedules, verification of the divorce may still be available through:
- Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (post-1968)
- County Clerk's offices (pre-1968)
- Published court indices and dockets

The retention of divorce records is governed by Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-1-305, which authorizes the State Court Administrator to establish records management programs for the judicial department, including retention schedules.

How To Get a Divorce In Broomfield County

Obtaining a divorce (legally termed "dissolution of marriage") in Broomfield County requires following specific legal procedures established under Colorado law. The process involves several key steps:

1. Determine Eligibility

At least one spouse must have been a Colorado resident for 91 days prior to filing
The case must be filed in the county where either spouse resides
No fault-based grounds are required under Colorado's "no-fault" divorce laws

2. Prepare and File Initial Documents

The following documents must be filed with the Broomfield County District Court:

Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (JDF 1101)
Case Information Sheet (JDF 1000)
Summons for Dissolution of Marriage (JDF 1102)
Filing fee payment (currently $230)

3. Serve Documents to Spouse

If filing jointly, no service is required
If filing individually, the non-filing spouse must be formally served with:
- Copies of all filed documents
- A completed Summons
Service options include:
- Personal service by sheriff or private process server
- Waiver of service signed by the other spouse
- Publication (in limited circumstances with court approval)

4. Complete Financial Disclosures

Both parties must exchange:

Sworn Financial Statement (JDF 1111)
Supporting financial documentation
Certificate of Compliance with financial disclosure requirements

5. Develop Agreements or Prepare for Contested Issues

For property and debts: Separation Agreement (JDF 1115)
For children: Parenting Plan (JDF 1113) and Child Support Worksheets
Mediation may be required if agreements cannot be reached

6. Attend Hearings as Required

Initial Status Conference (typically 40-42 days after filing)
Temporary Orders Hearing (if requested)
Permanent Orders Hearing (final divorce hearing)

7. Finalize the Divorce

Submit Decree of Dissolution of Marriage for judge's signature
File any additional required orders (support, parenting time, etc.)
Obtain certified copies of the final decree

For assistance with divorce proceedings, the following resources are available:

Broomfield Combined Courts
17 DesCombes Drive
Broomfield, CO 80020
Phone: 303-464-5020
Broomfield County District Court

Colorado Legal Services
1905 Sherman Street, Suite 400
Denver, CO 80203
Phone: 303-837-1313
Colorado Legal Services

The court also provides self-help resources, including forms and instructions, through the Colorado Judicial Branch Self-Help Center.

How To Get Divorce Papers In Broomfield County

Obtaining divorce papers in Broomfield County can be accomplished through several methods, depending on whether you are initiating a new case or seeking copies of documents from an existing or concluded case. The following options are available:

For New Divorce Filings:

Online Access to Forms
- Visit the Colorado Judicial Branch Self-Help Forms website
- Download and print the required forms for dissolution of marriage
- Forms are available in fillable PDF format
- Key forms include:
  - Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (JDF 1101)
  - Summons for Dissolution of Marriage (JDF 1102)
  - Case Information Sheet (JDF 1000)
  - Sworn Financial Statement (JDF 1111)
In-Person at the Courthouse
- Visit the Self-Help Resource Center at:
Broomfield Combined Courts
17 DesCombes Drive
Broomfield, CO 80020
Phone: 303-464-5020
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Self-help staff can provide forms and procedural information
- Nominal fees may apply for printed forms
By Mail
- Submit a written request to the court clerk specifying needed forms
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope
- Contact the court clerk for current form fees

For Copies of Existing Divorce Case Documents:

Online Request
- Complete the Record/Document Request Form
- Specify the case number and documents needed
- Pay applicable fees online
In-Person at Records Department
- Visit the Records Department at the Broomfield Combined Courts
- Provide case information and identification
- Request specific documents needed
- Pay applicable copy fees ($0.75 per page, $20 for certification)
By Mail
- Send a written request including:
  - Case number and party names
  - Specific documents requested
  - Copy of your identification
  - Payment for applicable fees
  - Self-addressed stamped envelope for return

For assistance with completing divorce forms, the court offers limited guidance through the Self-Help Resource Center. Additionally, the Colorado Legal Services organization provides assistance to qualifying low-income individuals seeking divorce.

All forms must be completed accurately according to Colorado law requirements. While court staff can provide procedural information and form availability, they cannot provide legal advice regarding specific situations.