Search Adams County Probate Records
Adams County probate court records are available through the 17th Judicial District Court in Brighton. These records include wills, estate inventories, guardianship filings, and conservatorship cases. Residents can access Adams County probate records through the court's online CaseLook system or by visiting the Adams County Justice Center. The court maintains probate files for cases filed within the county and works with Broomfield County as part of the same judicial district.
Adams County Probate Court Location
The Adams County Justice Center houses the probate court for this area. The building sits at 1100 Judicial Center Drive in Brighton. This facility opened to serve the growing population of Adams County. It handles all probate matters for residents of the county.
You can reach the court by phone at 303-659-1161. The records office has a direct line at 303-654-3239. Staff can answer questions about probate filings and record requests. The court also accepts email inquiries at AdamsRecordRequest@judicial.state.co.us.
The Adams County Justice Center serves as the main courthouse for probate matters in the county.
The Adams County Justice Center is open during standard business hours. You should call ahead before visiting. Some probate records may require advance notice to retrieve from storage. The court shares jurisdiction with Broomfield County as part of the 17th Judicial District.
How to Access Adams County Probate Records
Finding probate records in Adams County requires knowing which tools to use. The court offers several ways to search for cases. Each method works best for different types of requests.
The CaseLook system provides online access to Adams County court records. You can search by name or case number at adamscountycourt.org/recordSearch.php. This tool shows basic case information including filing dates and parties involved. It does not display full document images. For actual copies of wills or estate papers, you must contact the court directly.
Visit the Adams County Court website to access the CaseLook search system and court forms.
In-person visits allow you to view files at the courthouse. Bring valid identification with you. The clerk can help you locate specific probate cases. You may request copies of any documents in the file. Plan for extra time if you need certified copies.
The Colorado Judicial Branch maintains a statewide docket search at coloradojudicial.gov/dockets. This tool covers all counties including Adams County. You can use it to find basic case details before contacting the local court.
Types of Adams County Probate Court Records
Probate courts in Adams County handle several kinds of cases. Each creates a unique set of records. Understanding these differences helps you request the right documents.
Estate probate is the most common filing type. These cases involve distributing property after someone dies. The court oversees the process to ensure debts are paid and assets go to the proper heirs. Estate records include wills, inventories of property, creditor notices, and final accountings. These documents show what the deceased owned and how it was divided.
The Adams County Trial Court page provides information about court operations and procedures.
Guardianship cases involve protecting people who cannot care for themselves. This includes minors without parents and adults with disabilities. Conservatorship cases focus on managing money for people who cannot handle their own finances. Both types create detailed records about the protected person's needs and assets.
Colorado law governs all probate matters under Title 15 of the Colorado Probate Code. This statute establishes the rules for estate administration, will validity, and protective proceedings in Adams County and throughout the state.
Historical Adams County Probate Records
Older probate records from Adams County are stored at the Colorado State Archives. These files date from 1902 through 1962. Researchers often need these historical documents for genealogy work or property research.
The State Archives maintains probate case files from the early years of Adams County. You can search their database online at archives.colorado.gov/archives-search. Enter the name of the deceased person to see if a file exists. The database will show the case number and year if the Archives holds the record.
To request historical records, contact the Archives directly. You will need to provide the case number and year. Copies cost $20.50 for up to ten pages. Certification adds $16 per record. Processing times vary based on file location and staff availability.
For cases filed after 1962, contact the Adams County District Court. The court keeps files from the mid-1960s forward. These records remain at the courthouse in Brighton.
Requesting Adams County Probate Records
The court accepts record requests in several ways. Choose the method that fits your needs and timeline.
Email is the fastest option for most requests. Send your inquiry to AdamsRecordRequest@judicial.state.co.us. Include the case number if you know it. Provide the names of the parties and the approximate year of filing. Staff will respond with instructions for obtaining copies.
You can also use the statewide records request form at coloradojudicial.gov/recorddocument-request-form. This online form works for any Colorado court including Adams County. Fill in the details about the case you need. Submit the form and wait for the court to contact you about payment.
In-person requests offer same-day service in many cases. Visit the Clerk of Court office during business hours. You can view files and request copies on the spot. Bring payment for any copy fees. Cash, check, and credit cards are typically accepted.
Phone inquiries work well for general questions. Call 303-659-1161 for the main court or 303-654-3239 for records. Staff can tell you if a case exists and what steps to take next.
Nearby Counties in the 17th Judicial District
Adams County shares judicial district boundaries with Broomfield County. Both counties fall under the 17th Judicial District. Cases may sometimes involve matters from both counties.