How do I locate a defendant in a small claims court case?
The most important step when locating a defendant for a small claims court case in Colorado is to start by searching for the defendant’s address, phone number, or other contact information. This information can be found online in various directories, as well as through the county recorder office, state department of motor vehicles (DMV), or other public records. If the defendant’s contact information is not known, the next step is to contact a private investigator. Private investigators specialize in locating people and have access to vast databases, which can help turn up a defendant’s contact information, if it exists. Private investigators may charge an hourly fee or a flat fee for their services. If the defendant still cannot be located, Colorado courts allow for a summons to be served by mail to the defendant’s last known address. If mailed, the summons must also be sent to the defendant’s last known place of employment and published in a local newspaper as well. Once the summons is served, the defendant would have to appear in court or run the risk of a default judgment against them. Finding a defendant for a small claims court case in Colorado can be a difficult task. If the contact information or current place of residence are unknown, it can be an even more difficult task. Utilizing public records, private investigators, and legal methods of serving summons are typically the best options in locating a defendant for a small claims court case.
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