Thornton Marriage Certificate Search

Thornton is a large suburban city north of Denver with over 146,000 residents. The city spans both Adams and Weld counties, which affects where residents obtain marriage records. Most Thornton residents use the Adams County Clerk and Recorder in Brighton for marriage licenses and certificates. Some residents in the northern parts of the city may use the Weld County office in Greeley.

Where to Get Marriage Records in Thornton

Thornton residents must determine which county they reside in before seeking marriage records. The majority of the city lies within Adams County. These residents should contact the Adams County Clerk and Recorder. Those in the Weld County portion should use the Weld County office instead.

The process for obtaining Thornton marriage records follows standard Colorado procedures. The county clerk issues marriage licenses. After the ceremony, the completed certificate returns to the same office. Certified copies are then available to qualified requesters. This system ensures proper documentation of all marriages.

The state Vital Records office can provide limited verification services. They can confirm a marriage took place but cannot issue certified copies. For most legal purposes, you need the certified certificate from the county clerk. This distinction is important when planning your record request.

Adams County Clerk and Recorder Office

The Adams County Clerk and Recorder serves most Thornton residents. The office is at 4430 S. Adams County Parkway in Brighton. This location handles marriage license applications and maintains records for the county. Thornton couples can apply for licenses and request certified copies here.

Both parties must appear in person to apply for a marriage license. Bring valid photo identification. The staff will explain current fees and requirements. They can also help with questions about the marriage process and recording procedures.

For those in the Weld County portion of Thornton, the Weld County Clerk is at 1400 N. 17th Avenue in Greeley. This office follows the same state laws but may have different fee structures. Call ahead to confirm services and hours.

Note: The Colorado State Archives may have older records from before 1960.

Marriage License Requirements for Thornton Residents

Thornton couples must meet Colorado's marriage requirements. Both parties must be at least 18 years old. Those 16 or 17 need court approval and parental consent. Bring government-issued photo ID to prove your identity and age. No blood tests or medical exams are required.

Colorado marriage licenses have no waiting period. You can marry immediately after receiving your license. The license remains valid for 35 days. You must use it within Colorado. After the ceremony, the officiant returns the certificate to the clerk within 63 days.

Colorado allows self-solemnization under C.R.S. Section 14-2-109. This means couples can perform their own ceremony. No judge or minister is needed. This option gives Thornton couples flexibility in planning their wedding.

Common-law marriage is also recognized in Colorado. No license is required. However, official verification of common-law marriage is not available. Couples may file an affidavit with the county clerk if desired.

Ordering Certified Copies in Thornton

After your wedding, request certified copies of your Thornton marriage certificate. These serve as legal proof of marriage. You need them for name changes and official matters. Order from the county clerk where your license was issued.

The state Vital Records office only provides verifications. These are not certified copies. A verification simply confirms a marriage occurred. It lacks the legal authority of a certified certificate.

To request certified copies, show your direct interest in the record. Eligible requesters include the married couple and immediate family. Bring valid photo ID when requesting in person. Mail requests need a copy of your identification.

VitalChek offers online ordering for some records. They charge additional fees. Call them at 866-632-2604. Processing times vary by request method.

Historical Marriage Records for Thornton Area

Thornton was founded in 1956, so city records only go back several decades. Earlier marriages in the Thornton area were recorded in Adams or Weld counties. The Colorado State Archives may hold these older records. Their marriage index covers 1890 to 1939.

FamilySearch.org has a Colorado marriage index from 1853 to 2006. This free resource requires registration. The index lists marriages alphabetically by groom's name. Some cards may be out of order, so check name variations.

Most Colorado marriage records omit parents' names. This differs from many other states. Family researchers may need to consult other sources for complete family information.

For records not at the Archives, contact the appropriate county clerk. They maintain records from 1900 forward. The 1940-1974 period may be county-only, as the state did not receive copies then.