Jefferson County
Jefferson County, Colorado, was established in 1859 to create a local government for remote areas previously under the governance of territories in Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Utah, and Washington. Jefferson County stretches across approximately 773 square miles of diverse terrain. The county includes 120 square miles of incorporated cities and towns, while the remaining 653 square miles consist of rugged, mountainous, unincorporated areas. Jefferson County is a thriving community with over 580,000 residents. It includes suburban, business, industrial, recreational, and residential areas.
The Jefferson County trial court system comprises District Court, County Court, and Municipal Courts. Jefferson County District Court has jurisdiction over many cases, including dissolution of marriage, civil claims in which the disputed amount is more than $25,000, juvenile matters, probate disputes, and criminal matters. The decisions made in the Jefferson District Court may be appealed to the Colorado Court of Appeals and, in some cases, directly to the Colorado Supreme Court.
Jefferson County Court has jurisdiction over traffic cases, minor criminal matters, and civil actions involving less than $25,000. The County Court also presides over small claims involving no more than $7,500. County court decisions may be appealed to the District Court. The Jefferson County Municipal Courts have jurisdiction over city code violations. Typically, these cases involve traffic infractions, shoplifting, and minor transgressions such as dog leash violations. In some cases, individuals accused of these violations may be entitled to a trial by jury.
Jefferson County provides access to trial court case documents, files, and records. The Jefferson County Clerk of Court organizes and maintains these records. Public court records are available statewide and include family, criminal, civil, and probate cases. Residents of Jefferson County can request public court records online, by mail, or by calling (720) 772-2570. Note that there is a $0.25 per page charge for the records and a $25 charge for a transcript of judgment. Payment is required before the request can be fulfilled. A records representative will provide information about any additional costs.
