Search Douglas County Court Dockets
Douglas County court records are easy to find. The county sits in the 18th Judicial District of Colorado. Castle Rock is the county seat. The Douglas County Courthouse handles all court cases. This includes civil suits, criminal cases, and family matters. You can search court dockets online or in person. The court keeps public records open for all to view.
Douglas County Quick Facts
Douglas County Courthouse Location
The Douglas County Courthouse is in Castle Rock. The full address is 4000 Justice Way, Castle Rock, CO 80109. This modern court building opened in recent years. It brings all court services to one place. You can file cases here. You can also search court dockets and get copies of records. The clerk's office helps with all record requests.
The courthouse serves all of Douglas County. This includes Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, Parker, and Lone Tree. All court dockets for the county are here. The court handles District Court cases and County Court cases. District Court deals with felonies and large civil suits. County Court handles misdemeanors and smaller civil cases. Both courts keep public records you can search.
You can reach the clerk by phone. The main number is 303-663-7200. Call this line for questions about court dockets. Staff can help you find case numbers. They can also explain how to get copies of court records. Hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The court is closed on state holidays.
| Address |
Douglas County Courthouse 4000 Justice Way Castle Rock, CO 80109 |
|---|---|
| Phone | 303-663-7200 |
| Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM |
| Website | coloradojudicial.gov/courts/trial-courts/douglas-county |
How to Search Douglas County Court Dockets
You can search Douglas County court dockets online. The state runs a free docket search portal. This tool lets you look up cases from home. You do not need to visit the courthouse. The search covers all cases filed in Douglas County. You can find civil cases, criminal cases, and family court matters.
To start your search, go to the Colorado Judicial Branch website. Use the docket search tool at coloradojudicial.gov/dockets. You can search by name or case number. You can also filter by date range. The tool shows case events and hearing dates. It does not show the full text of court filings. For copies of documents, you must contact the clerk.
The online docket search is free to use. You need at least one search term. This can be a last name, business name, or case number. Results show the case number and parties involved. You will see the case type and status. You can also see upcoming court dates. This helps you track active cases in Douglas County.
For copies of court records, use the online request form. The state provides a records request portal. You can also call the clerk at 303-663-7200. Certified copies cost $20 each. Regular copies cost $0.75 per page. Payment options include credit card and check.
Types of Court Cases in Douglas County
Douglas County court dockets include many case types. The District Court handles serious matters. These include felony criminal cases. They also include civil cases over $25,000. Family law cases go to District Court too. This covers divorce, child custody, and adoption. The court docket shows all filings in these cases.
County Court handles less serious cases. These include misdemeanor crimes. Traffic tickets go to County Court. Small claims up to $7,500 are heard here. County Court also handles civil cases under $25,000. The court docket for these cases is public record. You can search all of these online.
Common case types in Douglas County include:
- Criminal cases and traffic violations
- Civil lawsuits and small claims
- Divorce and family court matters
- Probate and estate cases
- Protection orders and restraining orders
Juvenile cases have special rules. These records may not be public. You may need court permission to view them. Always check with the clerk if you need access to these files.
Requesting Court Records from Douglas County
You can get copies of court records from Douglas County. The clerk keeps all case files. You can request copies in person or online. The state offers an online records request form. This is the fastest way to order documents. You can request specific items from the court docket. This includes judgments, orders, and motions.
To request records online, use the state form. Visit the Colorado Judicial Branch records page. Fill out the request with case details. Include the case number if you have it. Give the names of the parties. State what documents you need. The court will contact you about fees. You can pay online for most requests.
Certified copies cost $20 each. These are needed for legal use. Regular copies are $0.75 per page. The court can mail copies to you. You can also pick them up in person. Large requests may take extra time. Call 303-663-7200 to check on your order.
Legal Help in Douglas County
Douglas County offers help for people with court cases. The court has a self-help center. This center is for people without lawyers. Staff can explain court forms. They can also guide you through the process. The self-help center does not give legal advice. They help you find the right resources.
Colorado Legal Services helps low-income residents. They offer free legal aid in some cases. Call their intake line to apply for help. You can reach them at 303-837-1313. They handle family law, housing, and benefits cases. Their website has forms and guides too.
The Douglas County Bar Association runs a lawyer referral service. This connects you with local attorneys. The first meeting has a set fee. Call them to find a lawyer in your area. Many lawyers offer free first visits. This helps you learn your rights before you file.
Nearby Counties in the 18th Judicial District
Douglas County is part of the 18th Judicial District. This district includes other counties too. Arapahoe County and Elbert County are in this district. Lincoln County is also included. Cases may span more than one county. You may need to search court dockets in nearby areas.
If you cannot find a case in Douglas County, check these counties:
Denver County is nearby but uses its own court system. Do not search state databases for Denver cases. Use the Denver County Court portal instead.
Cities in Douglas County
Douglas County has several cities and towns. All of them file court cases at the Douglas County Courthouse in Castle Rock. Court dockets cover cases from all areas of the county. Whether you live in a large city or small town, your case goes to this court.
Other areas in Douglas County include Larkspur, Franktown, and Sedalia. All court dockets for these areas are at the Castle Rock courthouse.