Northglenn Probate Case Files
Northglenn is a home rule municipality in Adams County. The city has about 38,000 residents. It sits north of Denver. All probate matters for Northglenn residents go to Adams County District Court. The Adams County Justice Center handles these cases. You can find estate records, wills, and guardianship documents there.
Northglenn Quick Facts
Northglenn Probate Records Location
Northglenn does not have its own probate court. The city is part of Adams County. All probate filings go to the Adams County Justice Center in Brighton. This court serves all Adams County residents. That includes Northglenn, Thornton, Westminster, and other communities.
The Adams County Justice Center is at 1100 Judicial Center Drive in Brighton. The District Court handles all probate matters. You can file new estate cases here. You can also search existing records. The Clerk of Court manages the files. Call 303-659-1161 for assistance. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Northglenn operates a Municipal Court. This court handles city ordinance violations. It processes traffic tickets and minor offenses. It does not handle probate or estate matters. For those, you must visit the county courthouse. The Municipal Court is separate from the District Court system.
The Northglenn Municipal Court handles city violations, but probate cases are filed at Adams County Justice Center.
The Northglenn court also offers traffic court services. This handles citations and violations. It is part of the municipal court system. Again, this is separate from probate matters. Estate cases always go through the county District Court.
Access Northglenn traffic court services for citations, but probate matters require county court filing.
How to Search Northglenn Probate Records
Searching for probate records in Northglenn requires using Adams County resources. Several search options are available. You can use online tools or contact the court directly.
The Colorado Judicial Branch provides a free docket search. This tool covers all state courts. You can search by name or case number. It shows basic case information. This includes filing dates and case status. It does not show actual document images. To see documents, you must request copies. Access the tool at coloradojudicial.gov/dockets.
Third-party services offer additional search options. LexisNexis operates Colorado Courts at cocourts.com. This service charges fees. It may provide more detail than the free state tool. However, it cannot provide certified copies. You still need to contact the court for those.
For historical records, check the Colorado State Archives. They hold probate files from before the 1980s. These include older Northglenn cases. Search their online database by name. If you find a record, contact the Archives for copies. Processing may take longer for older files.
Northglenn Probate Document Types
Adams County maintains several types of probate records for Northglenn residents. Each serves a different legal function. Understanding these types helps you request the right documents.
Estate probate records are the most frequently requested. These document the settlement of estates after death. Files include wills and inventories. You will find creditor claims and distribution orders. These records show how assets were handled. They are public unless the court seals them.
Informal probate is a simplified process. It requires no court hearings. The personal representative acts with minimal supervision. This works when no one disputes the will. Formal probate involves active court oversight. It is used when conflicts arise. Both create accessible records.
Guardianship records protect those who cannot protect themselves. These cases appoint decision-makers for minors or incapacitated adults. Files include medical reports and court orders. Access is restricted to protect privacy. Conservatorship cases manage finances for protected persons. These also have limited access.
Northglenn Probate Filing Process
Filing for probate in Northglenn follows Colorado state procedures. The process begins at the Adams County Justice Center. Understanding the steps helps you navigate the system.
First, you must wait five days after death. Colorado law requires this waiting period. It is 120 hours minimum. No one can file before this time passes. Creditors must wait 45 days. These rules protect all parties involved.
Next, gather your documents. You need the original will if one exists. You need a death certificate. You also need a list of heirs and assets. File these with the court along with a petition. The filing fee is set by statute. You can find current fees at coloradojudicial.gov/self-help/list-fees.
The court reviews your petition. If everything is in order, they appoint a personal representative. This person manages the estate. They gather assets and pay debts. They distribute property to heirs. The court supervises this process. Records of all actions are kept on file.
Get Northglenn Probate Copies
Requesting copies of probate records is straightforward. Adams County offers multiple request methods. Choose what works best for you.
The online request form is often fastest. Visit the Colorado Judicial Branch website. Fill out the records request form. Include case details and your contact information. Most requests are processed in three business days. You will receive copies by your preferred method. Access the form at coloradojudicial.gov/recorddocument-request-form.
In-person visits allow immediate access. Go to the Adams County Justice Center in Brighton. Visit the Clerk of Court office. Staff can help you find case files. You can view documents and make copies on site. Bring identification and payment for fees.
Mail requests work for non-urgent needs. Send a letter to the Clerk of Court. Include all identifying information. Enclose payment for copies and search fees. Allow two to three weeks for processing. Mail to 1100 Judicial Center Drive, Brighton, CO 80601.
Adams County Probate Records
Northglenn is one of several cities served by Adams County District Court. The Justice Center handles probate for the entire county. For more details about court procedures, fees, and records access, visit the Adams County probate records page.