Colorado Judicial Branch Publishes 2024 Judicial Officer Outreach Program Annual Legislative Report

Nov. 22, 2024, DENVER—The Colorado Judicial Branch announces the release of the 2024 Judicial Officer Outreach (JOO) Program Annual Legislative Report, a comprehensive document detailing the program’s key measurement markers to broaden the pool of judicial applicants and enhance the resources available to decision-makers.

The annual report provides an in-depth analysis of statewide and district-specific judicial officer demographics, showcases key findings from the recent statewide survey of judicial officers, and offers testimonials from judicial officers on the value of the JOO program. Key highlights include:

• FY 2024 Data Report: Statewide and district-specific demographics now feature expanded categories, including race, foreign language proficiency, gender identity, sexual orientation, and new data points capturing judges' personal and professional diversity. These include overseas experiences and teaching backgrounds in higher education or law.
• 2024 Judicial Officer Demographics Questionnaire Results: Key findings from the statewide survey, offering detailed insights from all 22 judicial districts.
• Program Expansion: The JOO Program’s core pillars—education, recruitment, and retention—now include a fourth pillar: Connection and Well-Being, emphasizing judicial officer well-being and community connections.
• Diversity on the Bench: A closer examination of the diversity of Colorado’s judiciary, including demographic information for new judges appointed to the bench in FY 2024.
• Insightful Testimonials: Judicial officers reflect on the importance of diversity and the value of the JOO Program in strengthening the judiciary and public trust.
• Looking Ahead: A preview of future priorities for the JOO Program, focusing on enhanced outreach and continued progress toward inclusivity.
• Comprehensive Data Appendix: Detailed data providing statewide demographic information covering the Colorado Supreme Court, Colorado Court of Appeals, all 22 judicial districts, and Denver County Court.

“The Department is committed to recruiting and retaining highly qualified judicial officers across the state,” said Chief Justice Monica M. Márquez. “The 2024 JOO Program Annual Legislative Report showcases the efforts made to ensure that our courts reflect the communities we serve. I’m proud of our work in this area and our efforts to provide the governor’s office, the legislature, and the public with this important data.”

The report is available on the Colorado Judicial Branch website at coloradojudicial.gov/court-services/judicial-diversity. 

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