Overview
Sedgwick County is located in Colorado with a population of approximately 2,257. The Sedgwick County Combined Court handles all probate and estate matters for decedents who were domiciled in the county at the time of death.
Colorado probate is governed by the Colorado Probate Code (Title 15, Articles 10-17). The process begins with filing a Petition for Formal or Informal Probate (JDF 910 or JDF 909) to admit the will and appoint a personal representative. The court then issues Letters Testamentary for testate estates or Letters of Administration for intestate estates.
Colorado offers a simplified procedure for small estates. If the decedent's personal property is valued at $86,000 or less (for deaths in 2025, adjusted annually) and there is no real property, successors may use a Small Estate Affidavit (JDF 999) to collect assets without court administration.
Colorado does not have a statutory fee schedule for attorneys or personal representatives; fees must be reasonable based on the services provided.
This guide provides an informational overview of the Sedgwick County probate process. It is not legal advice and is not a substitute for consulting a qualified attorney. Laws and local procedures may change — verify current requirements with the court.
Courthouse Information
Sedgwick County Combined Court
Probate matters in Sedgwick County are handled at the Sedgwick Combined Court.
Address: 315 Cedar Street, Julesburg, CO 80737
Phone: (970) 474-3627
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
The court is located in the county seat of Julesburg. The Combined Court handles both District and County court matters, including probate, civil, and criminal cases.
Parking and Access
Street parking is generally available around the courthouse. The building is accessible to the public during business hours.
Filing Process
Step 1: Determine If Probate Is Necessary
Before filing, assess whether formal probate is required:
- Small Estate Affidavit: If the estate consists only of personal property valued at $86,000 or less (2025 limit), you may be able to use the Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property (JDF 999) instead of filing a court case.
- Joint Tenancy/Beneficiary Designations: Assets held in joint tenancy or with named beneficiaries (like life insurance or payable-on-death accounts) pass directly to the survivor/beneficiary.
- Trust administration: Assets held in a living trust generally do not require probate.
Step 2: File the Petition
If formal or informal probate is needed, file the appropriate petition with the Sedgwick County Combined Court. Common forms include:
- Petition for Informal Probate (JDF 909): For uncontested estates.
- Petition for Formal Probate (JDF 910): For contested estates or when court supervision is desired.
- Original Will: If the decedent left a will.
- Death Certificate: A certified copy.
- Filing Fee: Approximately $199 (subject to change).
Step 3: Provide Notice
After filing, you must:
- Mail notice (JDF 943 or JDF 944) to all heirs, beneficiaries, and interested parties within 30 days of appointment.
- Publish notice to creditors in a newspaper of general circulation in Sedgwick County, such as the Julesburg Advocate, for three consecutive weeks.
Step 4: Administer the Estate
After receiving Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration, the personal representative must:
- Inventory and Appraise: Prepare an inventory of estate assets within three months of appointment.
- Pay Debts: Pay valid creditor claims and estate expenses.
- Taxes: File necessary federal and state tax returns.
- Distribute Assets: Distribute remaining assets to beneficiaries according to the will or intestacy laws.
Step 5: Close the Estate
Once administration is complete, file a Verified Statement of Personal Representative Closing Estate (JDF 965) or a similar closing petition to discharge your duties.
Local Requirements
Sedgwick County-Specific Procedures
- E-Filing: Colorado courts generally require attorneys to e-file documents. Self-represented litigants may file in paper or use the state's e-filing system where available.
- Publication: Notice to creditors must be published in a local newspaper, typically the Julesburg Advocate.
- Hearings: Many probate matters in Sedgwick County can be handled informally without a hearing unless an objection is filed.
Always check with the court clerk for the most current local rules and requirements.
Timeline & Fees
Filing Fees (Sedgwick County)
- Petition for Probate (Formal or Informal): approximately $199
- Small Estate Affidavit: No court filing fee (affidavit is presented to asset holders); recording fee may apply if recorded with Clerk & Recorder (approx. $13 for first page).
- Certification of Letters: approximately $20 per copy
- Publication costs: approximately $150-$300 depending on the newspaper
Payment Methods
The court typically accepts cash, checks, money orders, and credit cards (service fees may apply).
Estimated Timelines
- Small Estate Affidavit: Can be used 10 days after death.
- Informal Probate: Minimum of 6 months (due to creditor claim period), but often takes 9-12 months.
- Formal Probate: Typically 12 months or longer depending on complexity and court schedule.
Local Resources
Sedgwick County Court Resources
- Court Website: Sedgwick Combined Court
- Probate Self-Help: Colorado Judicial Branch - Self-Help Resources
- State Probate Forms: JDF Probate Forms
Legal Aid and Attorney Referrals
- Colorado Bar Association: (303) 860-1115 — Find a Lawyer
- Colorado Legal Services: (303) 837-1313 — coloradolegalservices.org
Publication
- Julesburg Advocate: (970) 474-3355 — Newspaper of general circulation for legal notices.