Westminster Marriage Documents and Records
Westminster is a northwest Denver suburb with over 115,000 residents. The city sits in both Adams and Jefferson counties, which affects where residents obtain marriage records. Most Westminster residents will work with either the Adams County Clerk in Brighton or the Jefferson County Clerk in Golden, depending on their location within the city.
Where to Get Marriage Records in Westminster
Westminster residents need to know which county they live in before seeking marriage records. The city is split between Adams County to the east and Jefferson County to the west. Residents of eastern Westminster typically use the Adams County Clerk and Recorder. Those in western Westminster use the Jefferson County office in Golden.
Westminster marriage records follow the same process as all Colorado counties. The county clerk issues the license. After the wedding, the officiant returns the signed certificate. The clerk records and files the document. Certified copies are then available to qualified requesters.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment offers marriage verifications. These confirm a marriage occurred but are not certified copies. For most legal needs, you must obtain certified copies from the county clerk. The verification has limited use for official purposes.
Nearby cities like Arvada, Broomfield, and Thornton have similar county-based record systems. Each city resident must use the appropriate county office for their location.
Jefferson County Clerk and Recorder Office
The Jefferson County Clerk and Recorder serves western Westminster residents. The office is located at 100 Jefferson County Parkway in Golden. This location handles marriage licenses and maintains records for the county. Westminster couples in Jefferson County can apply for licenses and request copies here.
Both parties must appear together to apply for a marriage license. Valid photo identification is required. The staff will explain current fees and any specific requirements. They can answer questions about the marriage process and recording timeline.
For Adams County residents of Westminster, the clerk is at 4430 S. Adams County Parkway in Brighton. This office follows the same state laws with similar procedures. Call either office to confirm services and hours before visiting.
Note: The Colorado State Archives holds older records from before 1960.
Marriage License Requirements for Westminster Residents
Westminster couples must follow Colorado marriage law. Both parties must be at least 18 years old. Minors aged 16 or 17 require judicial approval and parental consent. Those under 16 cannot marry. Valid government-issued photo ID proves age and identity.
Colorado does not require blood tests or medical exams. There is no waiting period for marriage licenses. You may marry immediately after receiving your license. The license expires after 35 days. It is only valid within Colorado.
Under C.R.S. Section 14-2-109, Colorado permits self-solemnization. Couples may perform their own marriage ceremony. No officiant is necessary. This gives Westminster couples freedom to design their own wedding experience.
After the ceremony, the certificate must return to the clerk within 63 days. Late filings face a penalty of at least $20. This ensures timely recording of all marriages.
Ordering Certified Copies in Westminster
Following your wedding, obtain certified copies of your Westminster marriage certificate. These documents prove your legal marriage. You will need them for various official purposes. Request them from the county clerk where your license was issued.
The state Vital Records office provides marriage verifications only. These differ from certified copies. A verification merely states that a marriage took place. It lacks the legal authority of a certified certificate.
To order certified copies, demonstrate direct interest in the record. Eligible requesters include the married parties and immediate family members. Bring valid photo ID for in-person requests. Include ID copies with mail orders.
VitalChek provides online ordering options. They add processing fees to state charges. Contact them at 866-632-2604. Processing times vary by method, with in-person requests typically fastest.
Historical Marriage Records for Westminster Area
Westminster was settled in the 1870s but incorporated much later. Early marriages in the area were recorded in Jefferson or Adams counties. The Colorado State Archives may hold these historic records. Their statewide marriage index covers 1890 to 1939.
FamilySearch.org offers a Colorado marriage index from 1853 to 2006. Registration is required to use this free resource. The index is arranged alphabetically by groom's name. Some cards may be out of order, so check variations.
Most Colorado marriage records do not list parents' names. This differs from many states. Genealogists may need to consult additional sources for family connections.
For records not at the Archives, contact the appropriate county clerk. They maintain records from 1900 to present. Note that 1940-1974 records may exist only at the county level.