Laramie County Court Records
What Is Laramie County Court Records
Court records in Laramie County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of judicial activities and decisions maintained pursuant to Wyoming Statute § 5-3-101, which establishes the duties of court clerks regarding record maintenance.
Court records typically include:
- Case files containing pleadings, motions, and other filed documents
- Docket sheets chronicling case events and filings
- Court orders and judgments
- Hearing and trial transcripts
- Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
- Sentencing records in criminal matters
- Marriage and divorce records
- Probate and estate documentation
These judicial records differ from other public records maintained by county offices, such as:
- Property records (deeds, mortgages, liens) maintained by the County Clerk
- Vital records (birth and death certificates) maintained by the Wyoming Department of Health
- Tax assessment records maintained by the County Assessor
The Laramie County court system maintains records from multiple jurisdictions, including:
- District Court (1st Judicial District)
- Circuit Court
- Municipal Courts (Cheyenne and Pine Bluffs)
- Juvenile Court
These courts handle various case types including civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, family law matters, probate proceedings, traffic violations, and small claims disputes. The comprehensive nature of these records provides a detailed account of judicial proceedings within Laramie County.
Are Court Records Public In Laramie County
Court records in Laramie County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with the Wyoming Public Records Act § 16-4-202, which establishes the presumption of openness for government records. Additionally, the Wyoming Constitution and common law principles support public access to court proceedings and associated documentation.
The following court records are typically available for public inspection:
- Civil case files (with certain exceptions)
- Criminal case files (post-charging)
- Judgments and court orders
- Docket sheets and case indices
- Hearing schedules and calendars
- Property records related to judgments and liens
However, certain records may be restricted from public access, including:
- Juvenile court records (per Wyoming Statute § 14-6-239)
- Mental health proceedings
- Adoption records
- Certain family court matters
- Records sealed by court order
- Grand jury proceedings
- Cases involving confidential informants
The Wyoming Supreme Court Rules governing access to court records establish specific procedures for requesting and reviewing judicial documents. These rules balance the public's right to information with privacy concerns and the administration of justice.
It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the District of Wyoming are governed by federal access policies rather than state regulations, though similar principles of openness apply.
How To Find Court Records in Laramie County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Laramie County may utilize several methods to locate and review judicial documents. The county currently maintains multiple access points for court record retrieval.
For in-person requests:
- Visit the appropriate court clerk's office during regular business hours
- Complete a record request form specifying the case number, party names, or other identifying information
- Present valid photo identification
- Pay applicable copy fees (currently $1.00 per page for standard copies)
Laramie County District Court Clerk
309 W 20th Street
Cheyenne, WY 82001
(307) 633-4270
Laramie County District Court
Laramie County Circuit Court
309 W 20th Street
Cheyenne, WY 82001
(307) 633-4232
Laramie County Circuit Court
For mail requests:
- Submit a written request including case information, specific documents needed, and contact information
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for return delivery
- Enclose a check or money order for applicable fees
- Address correspondence to the appropriate court clerk's office
For attorney or legal representative access:
- Registered attorneys may access certain records through the Wyoming Judicial Branch's electronic filing system
- Bar identification and system registration are required
- Enhanced access privileges may apply for counsel of record
Pursuant to Wyoming Court Rules of Access to Court Records, certain records may require special authorization or court order for access. Requestors should be prepared to demonstrate legitimate interest or legal entitlement when seeking restricted records.
How To Look Up Court Records in Laramie County Online?
Laramie County offers several digital platforms for accessing court records electronically. These systems provide convenient alternatives to in-person visits for many record types.
The primary online resources include:
Wyoming Judicial Branch Public Portal
- Access available at Wyoming Judicial Branch website
- Search capabilities for district and circuit court cases
- Case lookup by party name, case number, or citation number
- View basic case information, charges, and scheduled hearings
- Access to non-confidential documents in participating courts
- Free registration required for document viewing
To conduct an online search:
- Navigate to the Wyoming Judicial Branch website
- Select "Case Search" from the main menu
- Choose the appropriate court type (District or Circuit)
- Enter search criteria (name, case number, etc.)
- Review search results and select specific cases for details
- Access available documents (fees may apply for certain document types)
Wyoming Public Records
- Provides access to selected court and county records
- Searchable database of civil judgments and liens
- Marriage and divorce record verification
- Limited historical case information
Laramie County Clerk's Office Records
- Property records related to court judgments
- Tax liens and releases
- UCC filings affected by court actions
For criminal history information beyond court records, authorized users may access the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation's background check system, though this requires specific credentials and is not available for general public use.
Users should note that online systems may not contain complete case files, particularly for older cases or those with restricted access classifications. Additionally, document availability varies by court and case type, with some records requiring in-person inspection at the courthouse.
How To Search Laramie County Court Records for Free?
Wyoming state law guarantees the public's right to inspect court records without charge, though fees may apply for copies or certified documents. According to Wyoming Statute § 16-4-204, "The right of inspection of public records and documents may be exercised at no cost."
Free access options in Laramie County include:
In-Person Inspection
- Visit the appropriate court clerk's office during business hours
- Request to view specific case files using public access terminals
- No fee for viewing records on-site
- Self-service research stations available at the courthouse
Wyoming Judicial Branch Public Portal
- Basic case information available without charge
- Free registration provides access to case listings and status
- Docket entries viewable without payment
- Court calendars and scheduling information accessible at no cost
Laramie County Law Library
309 W 20th Street, Room 302
Cheyenne, WY 82001
(307) 633-4278
Laramie County Law Library
- Public access computers with legal research capabilities
- Print resources including Wyoming statutes and case law
- Reference assistance for locating court records
- Open to the public during regular business hours
Wyoming State Archives
Barrett Building, 2301 Central Avenue
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7826
Wyoming State Archives
- Historical court records from Laramie County
- Research assistance for locating older case files
- Free public access to archived materials
While basic record inspection is free, users should be aware that fees apply for:
- Printed or electronic copies ($1.00 per page)
- Certified documents ($5.00 per certification)
- Record searches conducted by staff ($15.00 per hour)
- Expedited processing
- Specialized document retrieval from archives
What's Included in a Laramie County Court Record?
Laramie County court records contain comprehensive documentation of judicial proceedings, with contents varying by case type and court jurisdiction. Pursuant to Wyoming Court Rules of Civil Procedure Rule 79, court clerks must maintain specific components in official case files.
Civil Case Records typically include:
- Complaint or petition initiating the action
- Summons and proof of service
- Responsive pleadings (answers, counterclaims)
- Motions and supporting memoranda
- Court orders and rulings
- Exhibits admitted into evidence
- Transcripts of hearings (when prepared)
- Final judgment or disposition
- Post-judgment filings and enforcement documents
Criminal Case Records typically include:
- Charging documents (information, indictment)
- Arrest warrant or summons
- Bail and bond information
- Plea agreements
- Motions and evidentiary filings
- Court orders regarding evidence and procedure
- Verdict or plea documentation
- Sentencing orders
- Probation reports (may be restricted)
- Appeal notices and related documents
Family Court Records typically include:
- Petitions for divorce or separation
- Child custody and support determinations
- Parenting plans
- Financial affidavits
- Property division agreements
- Temporary and permanent orders
- Name change decrees
- Adoption proceedings (often confidential)
Probate Records typically include:
- Wills and testamentary documents
- Petitions for probate or administration
- Inventories of estate assets
- Claims against estates
- Distribution orders
- Guardianship and conservatorship filings
Each court record also contains a register of actions (docket sheet) that chronologically lists all events and filings in the case, providing a roadmap to the proceedings. Case indices maintained by the clerk's office allow for identification of cases by party name, case number, and filing date.
How Long Does Laramie County Keep Court Records?
Laramie County courts maintain records according to retention schedules established by the Wyoming Supreme Court and state archives. These schedules, authorized under Wyoming Statute § 9-2-411, prescribe minimum retention periods based on case type and document significance.
District Court Records:
- Felony cases: Permanent retention for homicide and sexual assault; 75 years for other felonies
- Civil cases: 20 years after case closure
- Domestic relations: 75 years for divorce with children; 30 years for divorce without children
- Probate matters: Permanent retention for estates; 10 years after case closure for guardianships
- Adoption records: Permanent retention (sealed)
- Mental health proceedings: 20 years after case closure
Circuit Court Records:
- Misdemeanor criminal cases: 10 years after case closure
- Traffic violations: 5 years after disposition
- Small claims: 10 years after judgment
- Civil cases: 20 years after case closure
- Forcible entry and detainer: 10 years after disposition
Municipal Court Records:
- Ordinance violations: 5 years after disposition
- Traffic citations: 3 years after disposition
- Criminal misdemeanors: 10 years after case closure
Juvenile Court Records:
- Delinquency proceedings: Until subject reaches age 21, then sealed
- Child protection cases: 25 years after case closure
The Wyoming State Archives serves as the repository for court records that have exceeded their active retention period but maintain historical or legal significance. These archived records remain accessible through specialized request procedures.
Digital records are subject to the same retention requirements as paper documents, with additional provisions for maintaining technological accessibility throughout the retention period. The Wyoming Judicial Branch has implemented digital preservation strategies to ensure long-term access to electronic court records.
Records scheduled for destruction are disposed of securely under the supervision of the court clerk in accordance with approved procedures that protect confidential information while documenting the disposition process.
Types of Courts In Laramie County
Laramie County's judicial system consists of several court levels, each with distinct jurisdictions and authority. These courts operate within Wyoming's unified court system under the administrative oversight of the Wyoming Supreme Court.
Laramie County District Court (1st Judicial District)
309 W 20th Street
Cheyenne, WY 82001
(307) 633-4270
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Laramie County District Court
Laramie County Circuit Court
309 W 20th Street
Cheyenne, WY 82001
(307) 633-4232
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Laramie County Circuit Court
Cheyenne Municipal Court
2101 O'Neil Avenue, Room 113
Cheyenne, WY 82001
(307) 637-6279
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Cheyenne Municipal Court
Pine Bluffs Municipal Court
215 Main Street
Pine Bluffs, WY 82082
(307) 245-3746
Hours: Tuesdays, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Pine Bluffs Municipal Court
Wyoming Supreme Court (Located in Laramie County)
2301 Capitol Avenue
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7316
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wyoming Supreme Court
The court hierarchy in Wyoming follows a structured progression:
- Municipal Courts (limited jurisdiction for city ordinances)
- Circuit Courts (limited jurisdiction for misdemeanors, small claims, preliminary hearings)
- District Courts (general jurisdiction for felonies, civil matters, domestic relations)
- Wyoming Supreme Court (final appellate authority)
Wyoming does not maintain intermediate appellate courts; appeals proceed directly from District Court to the Supreme Court. The Wyoming Supreme Court, physically located in Cheyenne (Laramie County), serves as the highest judicial authority for the entire state.
What Types of Cases Do Laramie County Courts Hear?
Each court within Laramie County's judicial system maintains specific subject matter jurisdiction as established by Wyoming statutes. Case assignment follows jurisdictional boundaries based on case type, monetary value, and potential penalties.
District Court (1st Judicial District) handles:
- Felony criminal prosecutions
- Civil matters exceeding $50,000 in controversy
- Domestic relations (divorce, child custody, support)
- Probate and estate administration
- Real property disputes
- Juvenile matters (through dedicated juvenile court division)
- Appeals from circuit and municipal courts
- Administrative agency appeals
- Complex commercial litigation
- Tort claims and personal injury cases
Circuit Court adjudicates:
- Misdemeanor criminal cases
- Civil matters up to $50,000
- Small claims up to $6,000
- Forcible entry and detainer (evictions)
- Stalking and domestic violence protection orders
- Traffic violations (excluding parking)
- Preliminary hearings in felony cases
- Contract disputes within jurisdictional limits
- Landlord-tenant matters
- Civil infractions
Municipal Courts preside over:
- City ordinance violations
- Municipal code infractions
- Traffic violations within city limits
- Parking citations
- Animal control violations
- Nuisance abatement
- Public intoxication and minor offenses
- City licensing violations
Juvenile Court (division of District Court) handles:
- Juvenile delinquency proceedings
- Child in Need of Supervision (CHINS) cases
- Child protection matters
- Termination of parental rights
- Adoptions
- Juvenile drug court programs
- Truancy cases
- Underage alcohol and tobacco violations
Case distribution ensures matters are heard by courts with appropriate authority and expertise. More serious offenses and higher-value civil disputes proceed to District Court, while less complex matters are resolved in courts of limited jurisdiction. This tiered approach promotes judicial efficiency while providing appropriate forums for different case types.
How To Find a Court Docket In Laramie County
Court dockets in Laramie County provide chronological listings of scheduled hearings, filings, and case events. These records serve as the official index of court proceedings and are accessible through several channels.
For current docket information, the following options are available:
Online Docket Access:
- Visit the Wyoming Judicial Branch website
- Select "Case Search" from the navigation menu
- Choose the appropriate court (District or Circuit)
- Enter search criteria (case number, party name)
- View docket entries and scheduled hearings
- Note that some older cases may not appear in the online system
In-Person Docket Review:
- Visit the clerk's office for the relevant court
- Request docket information at the public counter
- Provide case number or party names
- View docket sheets on public access terminals
- Request printed copies (fees apply)
Daily Court Calendars:
- Available at courthouse information desks
- Posted on bulletin boards near courtrooms
- List cases scheduled for specific judges and courtrooms
- Updated daily for current proceedings
- May be viewed online through the judicial website
Specialized Docket Requests:
- Submit written request for historical docket information
- Contact Wyoming State Archives for cases over 20 years old
- Request certified docket copies for legal purposes ($5.00 certification fee)
- Research assistance available at the Laramie County Law Library
Pursuant to Wyoming Rules of Civil Procedure Rule 79(a), court clerks must maintain a chronological case register containing:
- Case number and filing date
- Party names and counsel
- Brief description of each document filed
- Date of each court order or judgment
- Notation of jury demand if applicable
This docket information provides essential context for understanding case progression and identifying specific documents within the court file.
Which Courts in Laramie County Are Not Courts of Record?
In Wyoming's judicial system, "courts of record" maintain verbatim transcripts or recordings of proceedings and follow formal rules of evidence and procedure. Conversely, "courts not of record" operate with simplified procedures and typically do not create comprehensive verbatim records. This distinction is established by Wyoming Statute § 5-4-101, which defines the characteristics of courts of record.
Within Laramie County, the following are classified as courts not of record:
Municipal Courts:
- Cheyenne Municipal Court
- Pine Bluffs Municipal Court
These municipal courts handle ordinance violations and minor offenses without maintaining official transcripts of proceedings. While these courts keep case files and docket information, they do not produce verbatim records that can be directly reviewed on appeal.
Key characteristics of courts not of record include:
- Simplified procedural rules
- Less formal evidentiary standards
- Proceedings typically not recorded verbatim
- Appeals heard "de novo" (completely new trial) in District Court
- Judges may not need to be attorneys (though many are)
- Limited jurisdiction confined to specific case types
By contrast, Laramie County's courts of record include:
- District Court (1st Judicial District)
- Circuit Court
- Juvenile Court (division of District Court)
These courts maintain comprehensive records including audio recordings or court reporter transcripts of all proceedings. Appeals from courts of record are based on the existing record rather than requiring a new trial.
The practical significance of this distinction appears most prominently in the appeals process. When appealing from a municipal court decision, the case receives an entirely new hearing in District Court rather than a review of the lower court's proceedings.