Divorce is an emotionally charged situation. It is difficult for the parting couple. However, if they intend to walk the aisle again, running a background check on their partners would be sound advice. This is important to ensure that you are marrying the right person.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Vital Records Section, preserve the divorce records for the entire state but only for a certain period. Divorce records can be procured from this office from 1851 to 1939, and from 1968 till the present times. Divorce records for the years 1940 to 1967 should be requested directly from the county where the divorce was filed.
To retrieve copies of Colorado divorce decrees, you need to fill out an application form. Mention all the fields while you are doing so including the name of the spouses, the date and county where the divorce was granted, your relationship with the parties mentioned in the record, and your motive to retrieve such data. Please ensure that you provide a valid photo ID stating your exact name and current address, as otherwise, your request would not be processed. You are required to sign the application form, as well. In case you forget to sign the form or the application form is incomplete, then your request would be cancelled.
You need to send this application form yourself to the office of the Vital Records in Colorado or else you can also mail to:
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
Vital Records Section
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South
Denver, CO 80246-1530
Phone: (303) 692-2200
Fax: (866) 559-9636
Please ensure that you also enclose $17.00 along with the application form by check or by money-order. This fee is for the search purpose. This money is nonrefundable, even if the search yields no result.
You can also place your request by fax. However, your fax request would be accepted with a credit card payment only.
Everyone cannot obtain these records. It is essential to submit proof of your relationship to get a certified copy of the Colorado divorce record. The certificate might be issued to the requester or respondent whose name is mentioned in the record, or to direct relatives like parents, siblings, children, grandparents or current spouses. If a substantial concern is recognized, certified copies in rare cases might be issued to in-laws, unless and aunts, cousins, nephews and nieces, employers, creditors, and to legal representatives. However, authenticated copies of official photo ID are required in all cases.
The Freedom of Information Act (FoIA) passed in 1966 helps to reserve divorce records along with other vital records in both the County and State level. But, the database pertaining to divorce record is getting lengthier by each passing day. The information can be accessed by all. However, the State recognizes the privacy of the divorced. So, though the details pertaining to whether the divorce had at all taken place or not, the date and the county of divorce are divulged, the personal details are kept private. Details such as the reasons for divorce, how was the asset divided, the amount of alimony or custody of the child is kept private.
To retrieve copies of Colorado divorce decrees, follow the instructions below:
Step 1.
Download a copy of the Colorado Application for Certified Verification of Dissolution of Marriage.
Step 2.
Complete all sections of the form. Include the names of the husband and wife, date and county where decree was issued, and the purpose of the request. State your relationship to the parties on the divorce, and include a copy of your proper approved identification as listed on the form.
Step 3.
Take the application directly in person to the Colorado State Vital Records office below, or mail the form along with a $17.00 fee by check, money order, or credit card information to the address below. Fax orders are accepted with a credit card payment only.
For more information, the following office can assist you:
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
Vital Records Section
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South
Denver, CO 80246-1530
Phone: (303) 692-2200
Fax: (866) 559-9636
Where to Obtain Colorado Divorce Records
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Vital Records Section maintains records of dissolution of marriage for the entire state, but only for limited years. Dissolution records can be obtained from this office for years 1851 to 1939, and from 1968 to present. Divorce records for the years 1940 through 1967 must be requested directly from the county in which the decree was filed.
Who May Obtain Colorado Divorce Documents?
Proof of relationship is required for requesting a certified verification of dissolution of marriage. Copies may be issued to the petitioner or respondent listed on the certificate, or to direct relatives. If a tangible interest is established, certified copies may be provided to in-laws, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, cousins, creditors, employers, and other legal representatives. Proper copies of approved identification are required.
Requesting Colorado Divorce Records Online
The State of Colorado Vital Records office does not process online orders. However, you can order online through VitalCheck.com. Additional fees apply to online requests, and proper identification is still required.
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