A9E6A40301398F158725894900737BAB Hearing Summary

Chief Justice Boatright and Steve Vasconcellos, State Court Administrator, presented about the Judicial Department, including changes in courts, performance measures, budget request, legislative agenda, and other reporting requirements. 

Their presentation may be viewed here:  https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/smart_presentation-judicial_department-2023_final_0.pdf

Committee members asked questions about workplace culture and the findings from the recent outside investigative reports conducted  on the subject.

Committee discussion followed about open, virtual court hearings and broadcasting.  Committee members asked questions about associated policies. 

The presentation proceeded to cover perfomance measures in courts.  Committee members asked questions about a court survey, COVID precautions, and definitions of recidivism.  

The Judicial Department representatives next discussed staff salaries, turnover, and training.  They also brought up an ombuds office to help navigate employee complaints.  Committee discussion ensued about the Interim Committee on Judicial Discipline and their legislative recommendations about an ombuds office.  The relationship between the Judicial Department and the Commission on Judicial Discipline was also referenced.  

The Judicial Department ended their presentation with data about Extreme Risk Protection Orders.   

Dennis Jahn, representing himself, testified on the Judicial Branch.

Jessalynn Houck, representing herself, testified on the Judicial Branch. Ms. Houck responded to questions regarding investigators assigned to her parental responsibility case.

Jordan Scott, representing himself, testified on the Judicial Branch.