Find Crowley County Dissolution Of Marriage Records
The 16th Judicial District Combined Court in Ordway processes all dissolution of marriage cases for Crowley County. If you need to file a divorce petition or get a copy of an old decree, you do that at the courthouse in Ordway. The clerk keeps all case files. To start a case, one spouse must have lived in Colorado for 91 days. That rule comes from state law under C.R.S. § 14-10-106. The waiting period ensures Colorado has proper jurisdiction over the divorce. Once a petition is filed, another 91 days must pass before the court can issue a final decree. This gives both sides time to work out custody, support, and property matters.
Court Information
County Seat: Ordway
Judicial District: 16th
Population: ~5,500
Filing a Petition
Filing for dissolution of marriage in Crowley County starts at the Combined Court in Ordway. The filing fee is $260, set by state statute. This fee applies across Colorado. You can find forms online through the Colorado Judicial Branch at https://www.coloradojudicial.gov/self-help/divorce-and-separation. The main form is the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, also called JDF 1011.
When you file, you must state that the marriage is irretrievably broken. Colorado uses no-fault divorce rules. You do not have to prove adultery, abuse, or other specific reasons. The court accepts that the marriage cannot be saved. After filing, automatic injunctions take effect under C.R.S. § 14-10-107. These orders prevent both spouses from hiding or selling property during the case. They also restrict moving children out of state without permission.
The respondent has time to file an answer after being served with the petition. The response form costs $146 to file. If both parties agree on all issues, the case can move faster. If there are disputes, the court may schedule hearings to resolve them. Many cases settle before trial through negotiation or mediation.
The Colorado Judicial Branch offers self-help resources for dissolution of marriage that include all the forms you need. These tools help people who are filing without a lawyer.
Requesting Records
Crowley County dissolution of marriage records are public documents, but some parts may be sealed. The final decree is usually open to anyone. Files with child custody details or financial information may have access limits. To request records, use the state's online form at https://www.coloradojudicial.gov/recorddocument-request-form. Most requests are processed within three business days.
You can also go to the clerk's office in Ordway and ask for records in person. Bring your case number if you know it. That makes the search faster. If you are a party to the case, bring photo ID. The clerk will explain what documents are available and how much copies cost. Regular copies are $0.25 per page, with a $15 maximum for parties to the case. Certified copies are $20 per document. Non-parties may pay more depending on the number of pages.
Court Location
The 16th Judicial District court for Crowley County is located in Ordway, the county seat. For specific contact information, visit https://www.coloradojudicial.gov/courts/trial-courts/crowley-county. That page lists the address, phone number, and office hours. If you have questions about a case or need to file documents, call ahead to confirm hours and procedures.
The online records request form lets you get copies of dissolution of marriage documents without visiting the courthouse. This service is available for all Colorado courts.
Property Division
Colorado courts divide marital property in a way that is fair under C.R.S. § 14-10-113. Fair does not always mean equal. The court looks at factors like how long the marriage lasted, what each spouse contributed, and the value of the property. Separate property that one spouse owned before the marriage usually stays with that person. Marital property includes things bought or earned during the marriage.
The court also decides spousal maintenance. This is money one spouse pays to the other after divorce. The amount and duration follow guidelines in C.R.S. § 14-10-114. These guidelines are not mandatory. The court can adjust them based on the facts of the case. Factors include the income of both spouses, the length of the marriage, and the standard of living during the marriage.
Name Changes
You can ask to restore your former name as part of your dissolution of marriage case. Include this request in your petition or response. If you file the request within 60 days of the decree being signed, there is no extra fee. After 60 days, you must file a motion and pay a fee. The court will put the name change in your decree if you ask at the right time.
Legal Assistance
You do not need a lawyer to handle a dissolution of marriage in Crowley County. Many people represent themselves. The Colorado Judicial Branch has resources to help at https://www.coloradojudicial.gov/self-help/divorce-and-separation. This page has step-by-step instructions and all the forms you need. Some cases qualify for a decree without a hearing. If both parties agree on everything, you can file an affidavit and get your decree signed by mail.
If you need legal advice, check for free or low-cost services in your area. Some counties have legal aid clinics. The Colorado Bar Association can refer you to lawyers who offer reduced fees. Check with the clerk's office in Ordway to see what local resources are available.
The state publishes a complete list of court filing fees that applies to all Colorado counties. This includes fees for dissolution of marriage petitions, responses, and motions.
Nearby Counties
Crowley County is in the 16th Judicial District with Bent and Otero counties. If your case is in one of those counties, contact their clerk for records. Each county keeps its own files. Links to nearby county pages: