Eighteenth Judicial District — Arapahoe, Douglas, Elbert and Lincoln Counties

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Arapahoe County Justice Center (District Court)

7325 South Potomac Street

Centennial CO 80112

Arapahoe County Court — Aurora

15400 East 14th Place

Aurora, CO. 80011

Arapahoe County Court — Littleton

1790 West Littleton Blvd.

Littleton, CO 80120

Douglas County Justice Center

4000 Justice Way #2009

Castle Rock, Colorado 80109

Elbert County Courthouse

P.O. Box 232

751 Ute Street

Kiowa, Colorado 80117

Elbert County Court

Lincoln County Courthouse

P.O. Box 128

103 Third Street

Hugo, Colorado 80821

In 2012 the Equal Justice Foundation began a rating system of justices standing for retention based on the votes of attorneys who submit responses to surveys sent to them by the Judicial Performance Review Commission. The idea was first put forward by the Rocky Mountain News in an October 13, 2002, editorial. Whether a “Retain” or “Do Not Retain” is recommended is based on the criteria:

Retain: More than 85% of attorneys voted to retain;

Marginal: in 2012 the standard was that only 80-85% of attorneys voted to retain. In 2014 review this was broadened to 75-85% and in 2018 the standard was expanded again to 71-85% of attorneys voted to retain;

Do Not Retain: In 2012 the standard was less than 80% of attorneys voted to retain. In 2014 review this was changed to <75% of attorneys voted to retain and in 2018 this was lowered even further to less than or equal <=70% suggesting judicial standards continue to decline.


 

Problem solving courts

For questions about the Recovery Court (Adult Drug Court), Veteran Trauma Court, or Wellness Court (Mental Health Court) please call 303-705-6784.


 
    Table 33: Eighteenth Judicial District Judges and Magistrates

Name of Judge

Telephone/

Division

Case Links

Comments

 

District Judges

Michelle Amico

Chief Judge

Division 201

 

EJF has reservations as she teaches gender-based violence seminars and is likely gender biased.

303-645-6625

 

Appointed district judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in April 2012. Formerly chief deputy district attorney in Denver.

Stood for retention in 2014. 88% Retain.

EJF recommendation: Retain

Stood for retention in 2020.

EJF recommendation: Retain

95% of attorneys voted to Retain while none voted Do Not Retain.

Marilyn K. Antrim

nee Leonard

Arapahoe County

 

Retired July 1, 2016. She won't be missed.

 

Appointed district judge in March 2003.

Stood for retention in 2006. 80% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2012.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

78% Retain 22% Do Not Retain

00 DR 3202

As a magistrate in the 1st Judicial District she insulted and screamed at a father, a U.S. Marshall, refused to look at the previous court record with vital evidence, endorsed her own parenting skills because she had read Dr. Spock, and threatened to terminate the father's custody rights because “she can.”

Angela Arkin

Douglas County

 

Did not stand for retention in 2016. Term ended January 2017.

 

Appointed district court judge in July 2002.

Stood for retention in 2004.

Stood for retention in 2010. 95% Retain.

The EJF has received a number of complaints about gender bias and fairness in her court.

Laqunya Baker

Arapahoe County

Division 402

303-645-6683

 

Promoted to district court judge by Gov. Polis effective August 1, 2023. Previously she was a county court judge for about a year.

Andrew C. Baum

Douglas County

Division B

 

Served as Army JAG officer.

720-437-6176

 

Appointed district court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in August 2017. Previously with Denver District Attorney's Office in the Economic Crime Unit.

Stood for retention in 2020.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

Only a pathetic 62% of attorneys voted to Retain while 38% voted Do Not Retain.

Stanley Brinkley

 

No longer on the bench as of July 2009

Richard B. Caschette

Douglas County

 

Did not stand for retention in 2016 and stepped down July 1, 2016.

 

Appointed district judge in July 2008. Prior to that he was in private practice.

Stood for retention in 2010. 90% Retain.

Natalie T. Chase

Arapahoe County

Division 22

 

This woman was a family court judge while on the bench.

 

The Court of Appeals has also demanded a review of a case where Judge Chase revoked the parental rights of a father and mother.

 

In another case Judge Chase cited a woman with four contempt-of-court citations for speaking out about the rulings in her case. The woman has been incarcerated since Aug. 31, 2020, and is not scheduled for release until December 2021.

 

These may not be the total charges against Judge Chase and further judicial discipline may be brought against her.

 

Resigned April 20, 2021 after admitting to using a racial slur in front of court employees, voicing her opinion on racial issues from the bench, and asking employees to do personal tasks for her during work hours. On May 31, 2021, Ms. Chase filed an appeal of her dismissal stating she was forced to resign and accept public censure as a result of “judicial wilding.” While the EJF can find no definition for this term, she claims it is an inherently unfair proceeding that lacks due process. Also, she claims she was treated far more harshly than male judges.

 

Appointed district judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in June 2014.

Stood for retention in 2016.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

Only 64% of attorneys voted to Retain and 27% voted Do Not Retain.

2017COA336

The Court of Appeals found Judge Chase should have upheld a challenge to the prosecution's dismissal of two jurors of color. Prosecutors did not seek to excuse a white woman who had provided similar answers during jury selection, and Judge Chase had improperly interjected her own non-racial justification for excusing the jurors of color.

2021COA93

On July 8, 2021, the Colorado Court of Appeals reversed a contempt finding against an attorney by Judge Chase that claimed he had no right to advise his client to take the Fifth Amendment while testifying. She also claimed the attorney was obligated to disclose his private conversations with his client.

For the first time in Colorado, the Court of Appeals addressed whether witnesses have the right, on a question-by-question basis, to receive advice from counsel about self-incrimination. For the preservation of liberty and freedom, the Court of Appeals decided they do.

F. Stephen Collins

Arapahoe County

Division 408

 

Stepped down in August 2017.

 

Appointed district judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in February 2011. No prior judicial experience.

Stood for retention in 2014.

EJF recommendation: 30% Do Not Retain, 53% Retain

Christopher Cross

Douglas County

 

Retired February 8, 2016.

 

Appointed county court judge in August 1997.

Stood for retention in 2000. 76% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2004. 98% Retain.

Promoted to district judge in January 2009.

Stood for retention as district judge in 2012.

EJF recommendation: Retain 94%

Thomas J. Curry

Douglas County

 

Retired in 2006 after 25 years on the bench.

Phillip L. Douglass

Arapahoe County

Division 309

 

Concerns about temperament and judicial demeanor.

 

Voted off the bench in November 2018.

 

Appointed district court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper effective July 1, 2015. In private practice prior to appointment.

Stood for retention in 2018.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

One of only two judges Judicial Performance Commission found who Does Not Meet Performance Standards in 2018. Only a pitiful 44% of attorneys voted to Retain while a matching 44% voted Do Not Retain.

Jacob Edson

Arapahoe County

Division 309

303-645-6674

 

Appointed district court judge by Gov. Polis effective July 1, 2023. Previously he was a magistrate in Douglas County.

Timothy L. Fasing

Arapahoe County

Division: 21

 

Retired January 1, 2016, and probate court reforms demanded after his mishandling of many cases.

 

Appointed district court judge in 1995.

Stood for retention in 1998. 86% Retain.

Concerns about docket management.

Stood for retention in 2004. 87% Retain.

Case management still a concern.

Stood for retention in 2010. 74% Retain.

He is getting worse, not better.

Benjamin Figa

Arapahoe County

Division 15

303-645-6724

 

Appointed district court judge on June 3, 2022, by Gov. Polis. Effective July 1,2022. Replaces Judge Stevens. Previously in private practice.

Stood for retention in 2024.

EJF recommendation: Marginal

Just 81% of attorneys voted to Retain, while 11% voted Do Not Retain.

J. Mark Hannen

Arapahoe County

Division: 22

 

Decided to “retire” April 6, 2015, after he was implicated in a March watchdog.org article for not providing sufficient oversight in several ongoing receivership cases.

 

Appointed to bench in February 2003.

Stood for retention in 2006. 79% Retain

Stood for retention in 2012.

EJF recommendation: Retain.

87% of attorneys voted to Retain while 13% voted Do Not Retain.

Thomas Henderson

Arapahoe County

Division 204

303-645-6634

 

Appointed district court judge by Gov. Polis on March 3, 2023. He was previously in private practice.

Patricia Herron

Douglas County

 

Colorado Politics wrote a scathing review of the ever mounting number of errors resulting in reversals of cases that came before her.

 

Retired in late 2023 as reversals of her findings in criminal cases stacked up due to her errors.

 

Appointed district court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in January 2016. Previously with state attorney generals office.

Stood for retention in 2018.

EJF recommendation: Marginal 85% Retain, 8% Do Not Retain

Jeffrey K. Holmes

Douglas County

 

Retired in September 2024.

 

Appointed district court judge in June 2007.

Stood for retention in 2010. 95% Retain.

Stood for retention again in 2016.

EJF recommendation: 92% Retain

Stood for retention in 2022.

EJF recommendation: Retain 88%

Nancy A. Hopf

Douglas County

 

Stepped down from bench February 1, 2011.

 

Appointed district court judge January 2003. Prior to that she was an administrative law judge from 1991 on.

Stood for retention in 2006.

96% of attorneys voted to Retain.

Kurt Horton

Arapahoe County

Division: 204

 

Stepped down or retired in September 2018 and did not stand for retention.

 

Appointed district court judge in 2009.

Stood for retention in 2012.

EJF recommendation: 33% Do Not Retain, 64% Retain

Harold Clayburn Hurst

Arapahoe County

Division 12

303-645-6715

 

Appointed district court judge by Gov. Polis on November 23, 2019. This is a new position.

Stood for retention in 2022.

EJF recommendation: Retain

100% of attorneys voted to Retain with no dissension.

Michelle Jones

Arapahoe County

Division 35

303-645-6752

 

Appointed district court judge by Gov. Polis effective January 10, 2023. She was formerly a magistrate.

David N. Karpel

Arapahoe County

Division 207

303-645-6644

 

Appointed district court judge by Gov. Polis effective January 10, 2023. Previously he was Assistant Chief Counsel for the Department of Homeland Security.

Paul A. King

Douglas County

Division: 1

 

Retired July 2018.but remains a senior judge as of September 2020.

 

Appointed in August 2000.

Stood for retention in 2002. 95% Retain

Stood for retention in 2008. 92% Retain

Stood for retention in 2014.

EJF recommendation: 92% Retain

Victoria Klingensmith

Douglas County

Division 4

720-437-6274

 

Appointed district court judge by Gov. Polis effective September 1, 2023. Previously she was Senior Chief Deputy District Attorney.

Gary M. Kramer

Elbert County

 

Retired in July 2024.

 

Appointed district court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper on January 6, 2016. Prior to that he was in private practice.

Stood for retention in 2018.

EJF recommendation: Marginal

85% of attorneys voted to Retain

13% voted Do Not Retain.

John P. Leopold

former chief judge

 

Retired in October 2006.

 

Appointed district court judge in August 1987 and chief judge in August 2002.

Stood for retention in 2002.

90% Retain

Ben L. Leutwyler III

Douglas County

Division 5

720-437-6278

 

Promoted to district court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper on April 29, 2016. Prior to that he was a magistrate.

Stood for retention in 2018.

EJF recommendation: Retain

92% of attorneys voted to Retain

Stood for retention again in 2024.

EJF recommendation: Marginal

80% of attorneys voted to Retain but just 7% voted Do Not Retain.

Cajardo Lindsey

 

 

Did not stand for retention in 2024 and is stepping down from the bench in August 2024 presumably to pursue his acting career.

 

Appointed district court judge on June 3, 2021, by Gov. Polis. Replaces Judge Chase and was effective immediately. Previously in private practice.

Robert L. Lung

Douglas County

Division 6

720-437-6282

 

Promoted to district court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper on April 29, 2016. Was a magistrate in Douglas County.

Stood for retention in 2018.

EJF recommendation: Retain

88% of attorneys voted to Retain.

Stood for retention again in 2024.

EJF recommendation: High-end Marginal

84% of attorneys voted to Retain but 11% voted Do Not Retain.

James F. Macrum, Jr.

 

Did not stand for retention in 2004 and term ended January 11, 2005.

 

Appointed district court judge in 1990.

Stood for retention in 1998.

95% Retain

Cynthia Dianne Mares

 

EJF experience with Judge Mares suggests she is a poor judge in domestic relations.

 

Retired in September 2023.

 

Appointed district court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in May 2018. Previously she was an associate judge on the Aurora Municipal Court. Replaced Judge King.

Stood for retention in 2020.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

Only a pathetic 56% of attorneys voted to Retain while 35% voted Do Not Retain.

Frederick T. Martinez

Arapahoe County

 

Did not stand for retention in 2022. Term ended January 10, 2023.

 

Appointed district judge by Gov. HIckenlooper in June 2014.

Stood for retention in 2016.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

Only 55% of attorneys voted Retain, while 33% voted Do Not Retain.

Bonnie Heather McLean

Arapahoe County

Division 34

 

Presiding Judge for Domestic Relations and Juvenile Dockets and Problem Solving Courts

303-645-6761

 

Promoted to district court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in September 2014 and took the bench on January 13, 2015. Formerly a magistrate.

Stood for retention in 2018.

EJF recommendation: High-end Marginal

85% of attorneys voted to Retain.

Stood for retention again in 2024.

EJF recommendation: High-end Marginal

Again 85% of attorneys voted to Retain while 10% voted Do Not Retain.

Peter F. Michaelson

Arapahoe County

 

Attorney Mark Cohen filed a complaint with the Colorado Commission on Judicial Discipline against Judge Michaelson in April, 2024, after the judge told Cohen to bring a toothbrush to court so that he'd be more comfortable in jail.

 

Did not stand for retention in 2024 and term will end in January 2025.

 

Promoted to district judge in November 2015. Previously Custer County judge in the 11 th Judicial District.

Appointed Custer County judge August 2003.

Stood for retention in 2006. Retain.

Stood for retention in 2010. 83% Retain.

Stood for retention as county judge in 2014.

EJF recommendation: Retain 89%

Stood for retention as district judge in 2018.

EJF recommendation: Marginal 83% Retain.

Cheryl L. Post

 

Did not stand for retention in 2008. Term ended January 2009.

 

Appointed district court judge in 1993.

Stood for retention in 2002.87% Retain.

Charles M. Pratt

 

Retired in September 2019.

 

Appointed June 9, 2005.

Stood for retention in 2008. 95% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2014. 88% Retain

EJF recommendation: Retain

Gerald Rafferty

Arapahoe County

 

Retired January 23, 2016.

 

Appointed in 1999.

Stood for retention in 2002. 93% Retain

Stood for retention in 2008. 96% Retain

Stood for retention in 2014.

EJF recommendation: Retain 86%

Juanita L. Rice

 

Retired in January 2009 after not standing for retention in 2008. Not soon enough.

 

Appointed district judge in April 2000 after serving as district magistrate.

Stood for retention in 2002. 86% Retain

Extreme gender bias against men reported from several sources but also see report by woman stating that Rice has been rude, sarcastic and just plain mean.

Courthouse Forum reports that Rice is both male gender, economic, and disability biased and consistently violates constitutional law.

Robert H. Russell II

 

Retired Air Force Lt. Col.

 

Retired May 31, 2012. after 20 years in the Air Force and 27 years on the bench.

 

Employed as magistrate in 1985.

Appointed district court judge in 1989.

Stood for retention in 2000. 91% Retain

Stood for retention in 2006. 93% Retain

Carlos A. Samour Jr.

Formerly Chief Judge

Arapahoe County

 

Promoted to Colorado Supreme Court by Gov. Hickenlooper effective July 2, 2018.

 

Appointed district court judge in 2006 and stepped up to bench in 2007.

Replaced John P. Leopold

Stood for retention in 2010. 95% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2016. 67% Retain

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

John E. Scipione

Arapahoe County

 

Judge Scipione was further censured on May 6, 2024, by the Colorado Supreme Court after his misconduct resulted in a pair of sexual harassment settlements that cost the state $130,000.

 

Resigned in disgrace on January 21, 2023, after admitting an affair with a court clerk, sexual harassment of others, and an attempt to influence a court case in another jurisdiction.

 

Promoted District Court Judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in September 2018. Prior to that he was a county court judge and prior to that he was a magistrate.

Stood for retention in 2020.

EJF recommendation: Retain 88%, 13% Do Not Retain.

Theresa Slade

Elbert County

Division 1

 

Violated rules of criminal procedure and Sixth Amendment's right to counsel when she allowed a defense attorney to withdraw, did not seek input from the defendant, and did not evaluate the necessity of the withdrawal.

303-621-2131

 

Appointed district judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in August 2012.

Stood for retention in 2014. 70% Retain.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

Stood for retention in 2020.

EJF recommendation: Retain

89% of attorneys voted to Retain while just 6% voted Do Not Retain.

Michael Spear

Arapahoe County

 

Retired February 28, 2021.

 

Appointed in 2002. Robed February 2003.

Stood for retention in 2006. 89% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2012.

EJF recommendation: 33% Do Not Retain, 67% Retain

Stood for retention again in 2018.

EJF recommendation: 80% Marginal

Valeria Spencer

 

No longer on bench as of August 2012.

Stepped down to become federal prosecutor.

David John Stevens

Douglas County

 

Did not stand for retention in 2022 and stepped down July 1, 2022.

 

Appointed district judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in June 2014.

Stood for retention in 2016.

EJF recommendation: 91% Retain

Natalie Stricklin

Arapahoe County

Division 308

303-645-6669

 

Appointed district court judge by Gov. Polis effective December 1, 2023. Previously she was an Assistant Federal Public Defender for the Districts of Colorado and Wyoming,

Ryan J. Stuart

Douglas County

Division 1

720-437-6262

 

Promoted to District Court Judge in 18 th Judicial District by Gov. Hickenlooper on December 19, 2018. Formerly Jefferson County Court Judge in 1 st Judicial District.

Promoted from magistrate to county court judge in August 2012 in 1 st Judicial District.

Stood for retention in 2014 in county court.

EJF recommendation: 79% Marginal

Stood for retention in 2018 in county court.

EJF recommendation: 91% Retain

Stood for retention in 2022 as district judge.

EJF recommendation: Retain

96% of attorneys voted to Retain with just 4% dissenting.

William Blair Sylvester

former Chief Judge

Arapahoe County

 

Army veteran

 

Retired July 1, 2014.

 

Took the bench May 25, 2001.

Previously served as district attorney for 10 years.

Stood for retention in 2004.

Stood for retention in 2010. 90% Retain.

Don J. Toussaint

Arapahoe County

Division 14

303-645-6719

 

Promoted to district court judge by Gov. Polis on September 9, 2020. Previously he was an Arapahoe County judge.

Stood for retention in 2024.

EJF recommendation: Marginal

Only 71% of attorneys voted to Retain while 21% voted Do Not Retain.

Richard D. Turelli

 

No longer on bench as of February 2007.

05 CR 529

People v. Andrea Humphrey

Ruled on basis of emotions and feelings and suppressed confession of murderess because she became emotionally distraught when she found out her victim was dead.

Darren L. Vahle

Arapahoe County

Division 206

303-645-6639

 

Promoted to district court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in July 2018. Formerly a county court judge. Replaces Judge Samour.

Stood for retention in 2010. 89% Retain.

Stood for retention as county judge in 2014.

EJF recommendation: 75% Marginal

Stood for retention as District Judge in 2020.

EJF recommendation: Retain

86% of attorneys voted to Retain while 10% voted Do Not Retain.

Elizabeth Beebe Volz

Douglas County

Division C

Lincoln County

Division 1

 

720-437-6181

 

719-743-2455

 

Appointed district judge by Gov. Ritter in January 2011.

Stood for retention in 2014.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

57% Retain 22% Do Not Retain

Stood for retention again in 2020.

EJF recommendation: Retain

This time 86% of attorneys voted to Retain, a great improvement.

Daniel Warhola

Douglas County

Division 3

720-437-6270

 

Appointed district court judge by Gov. Polis effective August 3, 2024. Previously he was an Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Colorado.

Elizabeth Ann Weishaupl

Arapahoe County

 

Did not stand for retention in 2022 and her term ended January 10, 2023.

 

Appointed in July 2008.

Stood for retention in 2010. 100% Retain.

Stood for retention again in 2016.

EJF recommendation: Marginal

Her performance has deteriorated and only 77% of attorneys voted to Retain this time while 20% voted Do Not Retain.

John L. Wheeler

Arapahoe County

 

On appeal 37.5% of his cases were reversed.

 

Retired on January 11, 2021. Not much of a loss!

 

Appointed in August 2006.

Replaced Thomas J. Curry

Stood for retention in 2008. 88% Retain.

Poor performance noted.

Stood for retention in 2014.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

65% Retain, 22% Do Not Retain.

Shay K. Whitaker

Arapahoe County

Division 22

303-645-6732

 

Appointed district court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in November 2015. Prior to that she was in private practice.

Stood for retention in 2018.

EJF recommendation: Marginal

85% of attorneys voted to Retain.

Stood for retention again in 2024.

EJF recommendation: Retain

93% of attorneys voted to Retain and just 7% voted Do Not Retain.

Eric B. White

Arapahoe County

Division 408

303-645-6706

 

Promoted to district court judge by Gov. Polis on September 3, 2019. Previously combined court magistrate.

Stood for retention in 2022.

EJF recommendation: Marginal

83% of attorneys voted to Retain but 17% voted Do Not Retain.

Vincent R. White

Douglas County

Elbert County

 

Rocky Mountain News

White beat the system by refusing the alcohol test and the Dept. of Motor Vehicles didn't take his drivers license away for one year as required under the “express consent” law.

Lt. Colonel in Air Force Reserve

and may still serve as JAG officer.

Did not stand for retention in 2014 and term ended January 2015.

 

Appointed district judge in 2005.

Stood for retention in 2008. 86% Retain.

After his appointment, and before he ever took his seat on the bench, he was arrested January 7, 2005, for drunken driving and speeding. White refused to take a blood or breathalyzer test. Despite that, DUI charges were dropped and DMV gave him his drivers license back. White was previously arrested on DUI (BAC 0.117) in 2000 and convicted of DWAI on a plea bargain.

Joseph Whitfield

Arapahoe County

Division 407

 

Shows bias in favor of prosecutors.

303-645-6701

 

Appointed district court judge by Gov. Polis on February 11, 2021. Previously he was a deputy district attorney in the 18 th Judicial District.

Stood for retention in 2024.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

Only 54% of attorneys voted to Retain while 38% voted Do Not Retain.

Top

County Judges

Addison Adams

Arapahoe County

 

Did not stand for retention in 2016 and retired January 2017.

 

Appointed February 2, 2009, by Gov. Owens.

Stood for retention in 2012.

EJF recommendation: 98% Retain

Christina Apostoli

Arapahoe County

Division A1

720-568-4832

 

Promoted to county court judge by Gov. Polis on January 4, 2024. She was a magistrate previously.

Laqunya Baker

Arapahoe County

 

Promoted to district court judge by Gov. Polis effective July 1, 2023.

 

Appointed county court judge by Gov. Polis on June 2, 2022, and stepped up to the bench on July 1 st . Previously she was a public defender.

Alex R. Bencze

Arapahoe County

 

Did not stand for retention in 2016 and retired January 2017.

 

Appointed in August 1998.

Stood for retention in 2000. 85% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2004. 96% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2008. 100% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2012.

EJF recommendation: 91% Retain

Grafton Minot Biddle

Douglas County

 

Former magistrate. Appointed county court judge by Gov. Owens in June 2006.

Resigned in December 2007 after being involved in an “improper” relationship at age 57 with 29-year-old prosecutor Laurie Steinman. Ms. Steinman was fired by District Attorney Carol Chambers, who was herself recently disciplined by the CO Supreme Court for ethical violations.

Biddle and Ms. Steinman repeatedly had sex in his chambers during 2006 and Biddle would sneak into the women's facility in the courthouse to shower with Ms. Steinman. The affair, which began before Biddle was promoted to county judge, was first reported by Biddle's then-wife Gail Liles. Ms. Hurst nee Steinman later lost her law license for 3 years. (Denver Post, December 29, 2006 (p. 1&5 B), June 22, 2007 (p. 5B, Rocky Mountain News, September 8, 2007, p. 19). In December 2007 Biddle's license to practice law was also suspended for 3 years (Denver Post, Dec. 19, 2007, p. 4B).

Lawrence Bowling

Douglas County

Division D

720-437-6253

 

Promoted to county court judge by Gov. Ritter in August 2010. Formerly Douglas County magistrate.

Stood for retention in 2014.

EJF recommendation: 89% Retain

Stood for retention again in 2018.

EJF recommendation: 96% Retain

Stood for retention again in 2022.

EJF recommendation: Retain

97% of attorneys voted to Retain with just 3% voting Do Not Retain.

Palmer L. Boyette

Elbert County

303-621-2131

 

Appointed to bench in 2007. Still works as a part-time magistrate in Denver District Court.

Stood for retention in 2010. 95% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2014.

EJF recommendation: 86% Retain

Stood for retention again in 2018.

EJF recommendation: 93% Retain

Stood for retention again in 2022.

EJF recommendation: Retain

94% of attorneys voted to Retain with just 6% opposed.

Miles A. Cabral

Lincoln County

719-743-2455

 

Appointed county court judge by Gov. Polis effective June 1, 2024. Previously he was Municipal Court Judge for City of Edgewater and in private practice.

Christine Chauche

Arapahoe Justice Center

 

Did not stand for retention in 2016 and stepped down from bench in January 2017.

 

Formerly a magistrate.

Appointed county court judge in 2005.

Stood for retention in 2008. 95% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2012.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

79% Retain, 21% voting Do Not Retain.

Colleen Clark

Arapahoe County

Division A1 — Littleton

720-568-4832

 

Promoted to county court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in September 2016. Previously a magistrate.

Stood for retention in 2018.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

63% Retain, 38% Do Not Retain

Stood for retention again in 2022.

EJF recommendation: Marginal

She improved with 83% of attorneys voting to Retain this time, but 8% still voted Do Not Retain.

Chantel Contiguglia

Arapahoe County

Division 401

 

Promoted to district court judge in 1 st Judicial District in November 2023 by Gov. Polis.

 

Appointed county court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in August 2018. Previously she was Senior Deputy Public Defender for the State Public Defender in Golden

Stood for retention in 2020.

EJF recommendation: Retain

86% of attorneys voted to Retain

Christopher Cross

 

Retired February 8, 2016 as a district court judge.

 

Appointed county court judge in August 1997.

Stood for retention in 2000. 76% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2004. 98% Retain.

Promoted to district judge in January 2009.

Ethan D. Feldman

Arapahoe County

 

Stepped down in 2012 to run for 18 th Judicial District Attorney.

 

Stood for retention in 2010. 90% Retain.

Reports are that this judge is polite, fair and faithful to the law.

Kolony L. Fields

Douglas County

Division G

720-437-6250

 

Appointed county court judge by Gov. Polis on November 8, 2019. Previously a district court magistrate in the 1 st Judicial District.

Stood for retention in 2022.

EJF recommendation: Retain

95% of attorneys voted to Retain with just 3% opposed.

Truston Lee Fisher

Lincoln County

 

Marine Corps

Vietnam veteran

 

Does not have a law degree.

 

Retired as of June 1, 2024.

 

Appointed county court judge in June 1987.

Stood for retention in 1998.

Stood for retention in 2002. 75% Retain.

Given very poor rating in Oct. 13, 2002 Rocky Mountain News article.

Stood for retention in 2006. Concerns about his angry outbursts in courtroom and toward his staff. Probably PTSD.

Stood for retention in 2010. 100% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2014.

EJF recommendation: 61% Do Not Retain and only 23% Retain. Health problems reported.

Stood for retention again in 2018.

EJF recommendation: Insufficient data

Stood for retention again in 2022.

EJF recommendation: Retain

Only two attorneys voted, but both voted to Retain.

Monica Jo Gomez

 

Concerns regarding docket management and demeanor remain.

 

Transferred back to 4 th Judicial District as an El Paso County Judge.

 

Promoted from magistrate in 4 th Judicial District in February 2007.

Stood for retention in 2010. 85% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2014.

EJF recommendation: 15% Do Not Retain, and only 71% Retain

Stood for retention in 2018. 86% Retain.

EJF recommendation: Retain

Melina Hernandez

Arapahoe County

Division A2

720-568-4836

 

Appointed Arapahoe County judge by Gov. Polis on November 16, 2020. Previously a part-time magistrate in the 2 nd Judicial District.

Stood for retention in 2024.

EJF recommendation: Marginal

Only a bare 72% of attorneys voted to Retain while 20% voted Do Not Retain.

Richard M. Jauch

 

Retired in 2005.

 

Appointed county court judge in October 1985. Prior to that he was a deputy district attorney.

Stood for retention in 2000.

Retain 89%

Stood for retention in 2004.

Retain with reservations about docket timeliness. Starts court up to 1 hour late.

Kelly A. LaFave

Arapahoe County

Division 306

 

Attorneys noted problems with demeanor, promptly issuing decisions, application and knowledge of the law, communications, and diligence.

 

Clearly she lacks what it takes to be a judge.

303-645-6664

 

Appointed county court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper June 3, 2016. Prior to that she was a Senior Deputy District Attorney.

Stood for retention in 2018.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain.

53% Retain, 40% Do Not Retain

Stood for retention again in 2022.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

Again just a pathetic 63% of attorneys voted to Retain, while 38% voted Do Not Retain.

Michele Ann Marker

Douglas County

 

Filed paperwork but then did not stand for retention in 2010. Her term expired January 1, 2011.

 

Appointed county court judge April 2004.

Stood for retention in 2006. Only a pitiful 57% of attorneys voted to Retain.

Susanna Meissner-Cutler

Douglas County

 

Retired May 8, 2021.

 

Appointed county court judge in 1995 by Gov. Romer.

Stood for retention in 1998. 94% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2002. 77% Retain.

Given very poor rating in Oct. 13, 2002 Rocky Mountain News article.

Stood for retention in 2006. 96% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2010. 92% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2014.

EJF recommendation: 90% Retain

Stood for retention again in 2018.

EJF recommendation: 89% Retain

James S. Miller (Atty)

Douglas County

 

No longer on bench as of August 2007.

 

Reports are that this judge was polite, fair and faithful to the law.

Dana E. Murray

Arapahoe County

 

She is reported to be understanding, caring, fair, and adheres to the law. However, 98% of repeat DUI offenders before her are sentenced to jail.

 

Retired in 2016.

 

Appointed county court judge in July 1989.

Stood for retention in 1998. 93% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2002. 96% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2006. 100% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2010. 97% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2014.

EJF recommendation: Retain 95%, a consistently high standard.

Anne Marie Ollada

Arapahoe County-Littleton

Division: A2

 

Stepped down July 1, 2022.

 

Appointed county judge in September 2006.

Stood for retention in 2008. 94% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2012.

EJF recommendation: Marginal 85% Retain, 15% Do Not Retain

Stood for retention in 2016. 56% Retain.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

Stood for retention in 2020.

EJF recommendation: 77% Marginal

Michael J. Roche

Arapahoe County

Division 405

303-645-6693

 

Appointed county court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper on June 3, 2016. Prior to that he was in private practice.

Stood for retention in 2018.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

67% Retain, 24% Do Not Retain

Stood for retention again in 2022.

EJF recommendation: Retain

His performance was much improved with 89% of attorneys voting to Retain and just 5% voting Do Not Retain.

Stephen R. Ruddick

 

Retired suddenly on July 3, 2006 rather than stand for retention again.

 

Appointed county court judge in 1994.

One of two judges not recommended for retention in 2002 survey. 61% Retain

Cheryl Rowles-Stokes

Arapahoe County

Division 304

 

Again in 2018 she received below average marks in case management, application and knowledge of law, communications, and demeanor. Commission noted these responses mirror those that she received in her 2014 evaluation.

 

The EJF has personal experience with this judge and concurs with her low scores regarding demeanor and knowledge of the law. She is rude, temperamental, and abusive.

 

Why is this arrogant prima donna still on the bench?

303-645-6659

 

Appointed county judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in January 2012. Formerly chief deputy district attorney.

Stood for retention in 2014.

EJF recommendation: 51% Do Not Retain while only 33% voted Retain

Stood for retention again in 2018.

EJF recommendation: Do Not Retain

45% Retain, 45% Do Not Retain

Stood for retention again in 2022.

EJF recommendation: Marginal

This time 81% of attorneys voted to Retain but remaining 19% vote Do Not Retain.

In a scathing article in the October 12, 2014, Denver Post columnist Vincent Carroll described Rowles-Stokes as one vengeful judge after she interpreted an obvious, harmless misunderstanding over a court order as a direct, intolerable affront to her authority and jailed an attorney moments after he' had won a case in her court.

John Scipione

Arapahoe County

 

Promoted district court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in September 2018 after hardly a year as a county court judge.

 

Promoted county court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in May 2017. Previously a magistrate.

Kevin Sidel

 

Filed suit against Elbert County commission due to dangerous conditions in the courthouse.

 

Stepped down in November 2007.

 

Appointed county court judge in 1995. Prior to that he was a deputy district attorney. Municipal judge in Parker.

Stood for retention in 1998. 100% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2002. 96% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2006. Retain.

Robert C. Tobias

Arapahoe County

 

Retired May 2017.

 

Appointed county court judge in April 1995. Previously in private practice.

Stood for retention in 1998. 80% Retain.

Deficient in judicial performance in areas of sensitivity to ethnic and gender issues. Also criticized for improper decorum in the courtroom.

Stood for retention in 2002. 89% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2006. 95% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2010. 96% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2014.

EJF recommendation: 88% Retain

A. Danielle Touart

Arapahoe County

Division 404

303-645-6688

 

Appointed county court judge by Gov. Polis on August 3, 2023. Previously she was Supervising Deputy Public Defender in the Centennial Public Defender's Office.

Don J. Toussaint

Arapahoe County

 

Promoted to district court judge by Gov. Polis on September 8, 2020.

 

Appointed county court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in November 2018. Previously he was a magistrate.

Darren Vahle

Arapahoe County

 

Promoted to district court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in July 2018.

 

Appointed county court judge in 2008.

Stood for retention in 2010. 89% Retain.

Stood for retention in 2014.

EJF recommendation: 75% Marginal

Kelly Erin Waidler

Douglas County

Division E

720-437-6258

 

Appointed county court judge on April 9, 2021 by Gov. Polis. Previously a chief deputy district attorney in the 2 nd Judicial District.

Stood for retention in 2024.

EJF recommendation: High-end Marginal

84% of attorneys voted to Retain while 12% voted Do Not Retain.

Joshua Jay Williford

Arapahoe County

Division 301

 

Censured by Supreme Court for exceeding his authority by setting his own deadline for DUI test results.

303-645-6649

 

Appointed county court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper effective January 1, 2017. Previously a Chief Deputy District Attorney in the 18 th Judicial District.

Stood for retention in 2020.

EJF recommendation: Retain

90% of attorneys voted to Retain.

Stood for retention again in 2024.

EJF recommendation: Retain

93% of attorneys voted to Retain and just 7% voted Do Not Retain.

Top

Magistrates

Addison Adams

 

No longer on bench as of July 2009

Christina Apostoli

Arapahoe County

 

Promoted to county court judge by Gov. Polis on January 4, 2024.

Andrew C. Baum

Arapahoe County Div. JVD

Douglas County FAC

 

No longer on bench as of October 2018.

Grafton Minot Biddle

Douglas County

 

Appointed to county judge in June 2006 by Gov. Owens.

Resigned in December 2006 after being involved in an “improper” relationship at age 57 with 29-year-old prosecutor Laurie Steinman. Ms. Steinman was fired by District Attorney Carol Chambers, who was herself recently disciplined by the CO Supreme Court for ethical violations.

Biddle and Ms. Steinman repeatedly had sex in his chambers during 2006 and Biddle would sneak into the women's facility in the courthouse to shower with Ms. Steinman. The affair, which began before Biddle was promoted to county judge, was first reported by Biddle's then-wife Gail Liles. Ms. Hurst nee Steinman later lost her law license for 3 years. (Denver Post, December 29, 2006 (p. 1&5 B), June 22, 2007 (p. 5B, Rocky Mountain News, September 8, 2007, p. 19). In December 2007 Biddle's license to practice law was also suspended for 3 years (Denver Post, Dec. 19, 2007, p. 4B).

Lawrence Bowling

 

Promoted to county court judge by Gov. Ritter in August 2010.

Amanda Bradley

Arapahoe County

Division 12

303-645-6715

 

 

Megan Brewer

Douglas County

Division 2

720-437-6266

 

 

M. Edward Burns

 

No longer on bench as of September 2016.

Patrick Butler

 

Promoted to district court judge in the 20 th Judicial District by Gov. Hickenlooper in October 2011

 

Became a magistrate in 2009.

Vicki Cirbo

Arapahoe County

Division 307

303-645-6698

 

 

Colleen Clark

Arapahoe County

 

Promoted to county court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in September 2016.

Lilith Zoe Cole

 

No longer on bench as of July 2009

Alisha Coombe

Douglas County

Division FAC

720-437-6242

 

 

Jacob Edson

Douglas County

 

Appointed Arapahoe County district court judge by Gov. Polis effective July 1, 2023.

Beth Elliot-Dumler

Arapahoe County

 

No longer on bench as of September 2024.

Richard Ferro

Arapahoe County

 

No longer on bench as of September 2024.

Brian Fields

Douglas County

Division A

720-437-6246

 

 

Laura N. Findorff

Douglas County

Division: FAC

 

Promoted to El Paso County court judge in December 2012.

09DR2993

Indifferent to father's and grandmother's visitation rights for 2-year old child. Ignored evidence and insulted father.

Kathie Fliss

Arapahoe County

 

No longer on bench as of September 2016.

09DR2993

Ignored mother's extensive criminal record and gave her custody of child despite father's pleas. Allowed hearsay to be introduced as evidence. Inattentive and discriminated against defendant

Clarisse Gonzales

 

No longer on bench as of July 2009

Louis Gresh

 

No longer on bench as of September 2012.

Valerie Harper

Arapahoe County

Division 25

303-645-6744

arapahoedr@judicial.state.co.us

 

 

Jeffrey K. Holmes

 

Promoted to district judge in Douglas County in June 2007.

H. Clay Hurst

 

No longer on bench as of September 2020.

Kathleen Janski

Arapahoe County-Littleton

 

No longer on bench as of October 2022.

Michelle Jones

Arapahoe County

 

Promoted to district court judge by Gov. Polis effective January 10, 2023.

Heidi Kutcher

Arapahoe County

Division 101

303-645-6620

 

 

Rachel Larson

 

No longer on bench as of September 2020. Reportedly beat up on fathers regarding child support so won't be missed.

Ben L. Leutwyler III

District

 

Promoted to district court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper on April 29, 2016.

Robert Lung

Douglas County Div. FAC

 

Promoted to district court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper on April 29, 2016.

Kara Martin

 

No longer on bench as of September 2012.

Bonnie McLean

Arapahoe County

 

Promoted to district court judge in January 2014 by Gov. Hickenlooper in September 2014.

Frank Moschetti

Douglas County

Division 24

303-645-6740

 

Refused to issue permanent orders in divorce case until ordered to do so after three years by the Colorado Supreme Court.

Rebecca Moss

Douglas County

Division 8

720-437-6290

 

 

Anne Ollada

Arapahoe County

 

Promoted to Arapahoe County judge.

Leroy Petrie

 

No longer on bench as of September 2012.

James Quinn

Arapahoe County

Division 302

303-645-6654

arapahoedr@judicial.state.co.us

 

 

Echo Ryan

Arapahoe County

Division 26

303-645-6748

arapahoedr@judicial.state.co.us

 

 

John Scipione

Arapahoe County

 

Promoted to county court judge by Gov. Hickenlooper in May 2017.

Meredith Sijmons

 

No longer on bench as of September 2020.

Donna Stewart

Douglas County

Division 7

720-437-6286

 

 

Patricia Swartz

 

Removed from bench in early 2002 for “undisclosed” reasons. Reportedly a protégé of Juanita Rice.

Lisa Teesch-Maguire

 

Promoted to district court judge in 2 nd Judicial District in June 2019.

Don J. Toussaint

 

Promoted to Arapahoe County Judge in November 2018 by Gov. Hickenlooper.

Christine Washburn

Arapahoe County

Division 21

303-645-6728

 

 

Eric B. White

 

Promoted to district court judge by Gov. Polis on September 3, 2019

Bradley Yoder

 

No longer on bench as of September 2012.

Top


 

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