How Do I File Probate in El Paso County, Colorado?
A step-by-step guide to filing at the District Court—what documents you'll need, where to go, and what happens after you file.
If you're handling probate yourself in El Paso County, Colorado, you can file at the District Court in person or by mail. E-filing is mandatory for attorneys but families filing without one are exempt and can use paper forms.
Filings here are routed through Probate Division (W149) - Protective Proceedings and Probate Division (W149) - Estate Cases. Confirm with the office which intake handles the petition type you're filing.
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 El Paso 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 District Court is realistic for your situation.
For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full El Paso County Self-Filing Assessment.
El Paso 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.
In-Person Filing
The District Court is located at 270 South Tejon Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80903. Phone: 719-452-5490. Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM.
What to Bring
To file at the District 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 District Court website.
Frequently Asked Questions
You open probate by filing a petition with the District Court in El Paso 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. El Paso 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 District Court in El Paso County does not require attorney representation. Use the Colorado self-filing assessment to see if your estate qualifies.
Yes. The District Court in El Paso 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.
District Court
El Paso County
270 South Tejon Street
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Phone:
719-452-5490Hours:
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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