Westminster Probate File Search

Westminster is a home rule municipality spanning two counties. Most of the city is in Adams County. A small portion extends into Jefferson County. The city has about 115,000 residents. Probate matters go to different courts depending on location. Most residents file with Adams County. Those in the Jefferson County portion file there.

Westminster Probate Court Locations

Westminster residents file probate cases in different courts. It depends on which county they live in. Most of Westminster is in Adams County. Those residents file at the Adams County Justice Center. The small Jefferson County portion files at the Jefferson County courthouse.

For Adams County residents, the court is at 1100 Judicial Center Drive in Brighton. Call 303-659-1161 for information. For Jefferson County residents, the court is at 100 Jefferson County Parkway in Golden. Call 303-271-6140. Both courts handle estate probate and related matters. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

Westminster has its own Municipal Court. It handles city code violations. It processes traffic tickets and minor offenses. It does not handle probate cases. Estate matters always go to the county District Court. The Municipal Court is entirely separate.

The Westminster Municipal Court handles city violations, but probate matters go to county District Courts.

Westminster is building a new Municipal Courthouse. This will consolidate city court operations. It will not affect probate filings. Those remain with the county courts. The project shows the city's growth.

Learn about the Municipal Courthouse Project for updates on the new city court facility.

How to Find Westminster Probate Records

Searching for Westminster probate records requires knowing which county. Then use the appropriate court resources. Both counties offer similar search options.

The statewide docket search covers both counties. This free tool lets you search by name. You can also search by case number. Find basic case information quickly. It shows filing dates and status. Document images are not available. Request those from the specific county court. Access at coloradojudicial.gov/dockets.

Third-party services offer enhanced searches. LexisNexis operates Colorado Courts at cocourts.com. They charge fees for detailed searches. Their database covers both counties. However, they cannot issue certified copies. Only the courts can do that.

For historical records, use the State Archives. They hold probate files from before 1985. This includes older Westminster cases. Search their database online by name. If you locate a record, contact them. They will guide you through the copy request process.

Westminster Probate Record Types

Both Adams and Jefferson Counties maintain similar probate records. The types of documents are consistent. Understanding them helps your search.

Estate probate records are most common. These document the settlement of estates. Files include wills and codicils. You will find asset inventories and valuations. Creditor claims are recorded. Final accountings show distributions. These records are generally public.

Informal probate is a simplified process. The court appoints a personal representative. No hearings are needed. This works for uncontested estates. Formal probate involves active court supervision. Hearings address any disputes. Both create permanent records.

Guardianship records protect vulnerable individuals. These cases appoint decision-makers. The ward may be a minor or incapacitated adult. Medical reports are filed with the court. Access is restricted to protect privacy. Conservatorship records are similarly protected.

Dual County Filing Requirements

Westminster's unique location affects probate filing. You must file in the correct county. Filing in the wrong court causes delays.

Most Westminster residents live in Adams County. They file at the Adams County Justice Center in Brighton. The address is 1100 Judicial Center Drive. Phone is 303-659-1161. This court serves the majority of city residents.

A small area of Westminster is in Jefferson County. Those residents file at the Jefferson County Courthouse in Golden. The address is 100 Jefferson County Parkway. Phone is 303-271-6140. Check your address if unsure which county you are in.

Both courts follow Colorado probate law. The procedures are the same. The fees are similar. Processing times are comparable. The main difference is location. Choose the court for your county of residence.

Request Westminster Probate Copies

Getting copies of probate records is straightforward. Submit your request to the correct county court. Both courts accept requests multiple ways.

Online requests work for both counties. Use the Judicial Branch records request form. Enter case details and your contact information. Processing takes about three business days. You will receive copies by email or mail. Access the form at coloradojudicial.gov/recorddocument-request-form.

In-person visits offer immediate service. For Adams County, go to Brighton. For Jefferson County, go to Golden. Visit the Clerk of Court office. Staff can help you locate files. View documents and make copies on the spot. Bring photo ID and payment for fees.

County Probate Records

Westminster spans Adams and Jefferson Counties. Most residents file with Adams County. A smaller portion files with Jefferson County. For more information about either court system, visit the appropriate county page.

View Adams County Probate Records View Jefferson County Probate Records