Crowley County Estate Records Search
Crowley County probate court records are maintained at the Combined Court in Ordway. This southeastern Colorado county is part of the 16th Judicial District. The court handles estate cases and guardianship matters. Office hours include a lunch closure. Records are available during open hours.
Crowley County Quick Facts
Crowley County Probate Court Location
The Crowley Combined Court is in Ordway. This is the county seat. The court is on the third floor of a building on East 6th Street. Probate cases are filed here. Records are stored at this location.
The court has specific hours. It opens at 8:00 a.m. It closes at 4:00 p.m. There is a lunch break from noon to 1:00 p.m. The office is closed during this time. Plan your visit around this schedule.
The Crowley County Trial Court handles probate matters in the 16th Judicial District.
| Court Name | Crowley Combined Court |
|---|---|
| Address | 110 East 6th Street, Room 303 Ordway, CO 81063 |
| Phone | 719-267-4468 |
| Hours | 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Closed for lunch 12:00 - 1:00 |
| Probate Registrar | Rhonda Pepper |
| Judicial District | 16th (Bent, Crowley, Otero) |
| Website | coloradojudicial.gov/courts/trial-courts/crowley-county |
Crowley County Probate Registrar
Rhonda Pepper serves as the Probate Registrar for Crowley County. This is a key role. The Probate Registrar reviews filings. They ensure completeness. They guide cases through initial stages.
The Probate Registrar can answer procedural questions. They can explain what forms are needed. They can review documents before filing. This helps avoid delays. It ensures cases meet requirements.
Contact the court at 719-267-4468 to reach the Probate Registrar. They can assist with Crowley County probate court records inquiries. They can explain the filing process.
How to Search Crowley County Probate Court Records
Finding Crowley County probate court records is straightforward. Start with online tools. Then contact the court directly. This two-step approach works well.
The statewide docket search covers all counties. It includes Crowley. Search by name to find cases. Add dates if you know them. The system returns matching records.
Once you locate a case, request copies. Use the online request form. Or visit the Ordway office. Call 719-267-4468 for assistance. Staff can help you obtain files.
Crowley County Probate Court Record Types
Crowley County probate court records cover several categories. Estate administration is primary. These cases distribute assets after death. They follow the deceased's wishes. Or they follow state law.
Guardianship cases protect vulnerable people. The court appoints guardians. They make decisions for those who cannot. Records include petitions and orders. Annual reports track progress.
Conservatorship cases manage money. A conservator handles financial affairs. They file accountings with the court. These Crowley County probate court records ensure proper oversight.
Crowley County in the 16th Judicial District
The 16th Judicial District is small. It has only three counties. Crowley is one of them. Bent and Otero counties are the others. Each has its own courthouse.
The district covers southeastern Colorado. This is rural farm and ranch country. Crowley County is largely agricultural. The court serves this community. Probate cases reflect this heritage.
Farm and ranch estates can be complex. They involve land and equipment. They may include livestock. Water rights are often involved. Crowley County probate court records document these transfers.
Crowley County Probate Process
Probate in Crowley County follows Colorado law. The Colorado Probate Code sets the rules. Understanding these helps navigate the system.
A five-day waiting period applies. You cannot file immediately after death. This is state law. Creditors have longer to wait. They must wait forty-five days before acting.
Informal probate is simpler. It avoids court hearings. Formal probate requires judicial oversight. It is used for disputes. Both create public records. These become part of the permanent file.
Small estates may use affidavits. This avoids court. Estates under $80,000 qualify. The heir files a simple form. Assets transfer directly. No probate case is opened.
Accessing Crowley County Probate Court Records
Obtaining Crowley County probate court records requires following the court's procedures. The court in Ordway maintains all files on site. You can view records during business hours. Remember the lunch closure from noon to 1:00 p.m.
The court accepts written requests by mail. Send your request to 110 East 6th Street, Room 303, Ordway, CO 81063. Include specific case details. Include payment for copy fees. Call 719-267-4468 to confirm current rates.
For convenience, use the online records request system. This sends your request directly to the clerk. Most requests are processed within a few business days. Rush service may be available for an additional fee.
Nearby Colorado Counties
Crowley County is in southeastern Colorado. It shares the 16th Judicial District with two other counties. Other nearby counties are in different districts.