How Do I File Probate in Denver County, Colorado?
A step-by-step guide to filing at the Denver Probate Court—what documents you'll need, where to go, and what happens after you file.
If you're handling probate yourself in Denver County, Colorado, you can file at the Denver Probate Court in person or by mail. E-filing is mandatory for attorneys but families filing without one are exempt and can use paper forms.
Your Filing Options
How to File Your Documents
Paper Filing Available
You can file your probate documents in person or by mail. While attorneys are required to e-file in Denver County, families handling probate themselves are exempt and can file on paper.
E-Filing Also Available
If you prefer, you can file electronically through the state's online system. This is optional for families filing without an attorney.
View E-Filing InformationCan You File Without an Attorney?
Not every estate requires an attorney. Factors like estate size, asset types, and whether beneficiaries agree can determine if self-filing at the Denver Probate Court is realistic for your situation.
For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full Denver County Self-Filing Assessment.
Denver County Filing Requirements
These are specific requirements for filing probate in this county. Following these guidelines will help avoid delays or rejected filings.
Before You File
Self-represented parties may file in paper format
Self-represented (pro se) litigants are not required to use ICCES electronic filing per Chief Justice Directive 11-01. Paper filings may be submitted in person or by mail, and court staff will scan and upload documents into the E-Filing system.
Pro se filings not accepted by fax or email
Denver Probate Court does not accept pro se filings by fax or email. Pro se filings must be submitted in person or by mail.
Other Requirements
120-hour waiting period after death
At least 120 hours must have passed since death before Denver Probate Court can act on a probate petition.
In-Person Filing
The Denver Probate Court is located at 1437 Bannock Street, Room 230, Denver, CO 80202. Phone: 303-606-2303. Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM.
What to Bring
To file at the Denver Probate Court you need: the original will (or proof there isn't one), a certified death certificate, contact information for all heirs and beneficiaries, and a summary of what the estate owns and owes.
Court Resources
Additional resources, forms, and fee schedules are available on the Denver Probate Court website.
Frequently Asked Questions
You open probate by filing a petition with the Denver Probate Court in Denver County, attaching the original will (if any), the death certificate, and the filing fee ($229). Once the court issues letters, the personal representative can act.
At minimum: petition for probate, application for letters testamentary or of administration, notice to heirs, and an oath for the personal representative. Denver County uses the standard Colorado probate forms — the court's website lists the current versions.
Colorado allows informal (unsupervised) probate, which many families handle themselves for simple estates. The Denver Probate Court in Denver County does not require attorney representation. Use the Colorado self-filing assessment to see if your estate qualifies.
Yes. The Denver Probate Court in Denver County accepts e-filing through the state portal. In-person filing at the courthouse is still available for those without digital access.
Assets stay locked, creditors can still pursue them, and beneficiaries cannot sell real property or close accounts. After a few years, interested parties can petition to open probate themselves. Waiting rarely helps. Families who set up a revocable living trust ahead of time bypass this problem entirely.
Denver Probate Court
Denver County
1437 Bannock Street, Room 230
Denver, CO 80202
Phone:
303-606-2303Hours:
Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Paper Filing Available
E-Filing Optional
Notify Banks & Financial Institutions
Each institution has a separate death claim process. Find yours below.
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