Governor Polis Makes Appointment to the Colorado Supreme Court

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DENVER ~ In a move that has been highly anticipated, Colorado Governor Jared Polis has appointed 8th Judicial District Chief Judge Susan Blanco to the Colorado Supreme Court. This appointment comes after the retirement of Justice Melissa Hart and is effective immediately.

Governor Polis expressed his confidence in Judge Blanco's abilities, stating that she has a track record of serving with compassion, justice, and innovation during her almost decade-long tenure on the bench. He believes that she will be a thoughtful, fair, and forward-thinking addition to the highest court in the state.

The governor also emphasized the importance of upholding the Constitution and the rule of law, stating that it is the bedrock of democracy and protects fundamental freedoms. He believes that the justices of the Colorado Supreme Court play a crucial role in maintaining these values and ensuring that Colorado remains one of the safest states in the country.

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This is not Governor Polis's first appointment to the Colorado Supreme Court. In 2020, he appointed Justice Berkenkotter to serve on the bench. With Judge Blanco's appointment, there are now seven justices on the court.

Upon receiving her appointment, Judge Blanco expressed her deep honor and humility at being chosen to serve on the Colorado Supreme Court. As a native Coloradan and a proud American woman of Middle Eastern heritage, she brings a unique perspective to this role. She also highlighted her commitment to expanding access to justice for all individuals.

Judge Blanco brings nearly ten years of judicial experience to this position, including her most recent role as Chief Judge of the 8th Judicial District in Larimer and Jackson Counties. During her time as Chief Judge, she has implemented innovative programs such as an evidence-based team for veterans and a Competency Court for individuals in need of mental health services. She also chairs two committees focused on improving access to justice through technology.

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Chief Justice Monica Márquez welcomed Judge Blanco as their newest colleague on behalf of the court. She praised her excellence, integrity, compassion, and innovation throughout her career and expressed excitement for the contributions she will make to the court and the people of Colorado.

Prior to serving on the bench, Judge Blanco had a diverse legal career, including owning her own law office and working as a contract attorney for Alternate Defense Counsel. She also served as a Guardian ad Litem for the Office of the Child's Representative and as a Deputy District Attorney. She holds a B.S. from Colorado State University, a J.D. from the University of Colorado Law School, and an L.L.M. in Judicial Studies from Duke Law School.

The Supreme Court Nominating Committee was responsible for sending Governor Polis three highly qualified nominees for this position. Chief Justice Márquez thanked them for their work in selecting such stellar candidates.

With Judge Blanco's appointment, the Colorado Supreme Court is now fully staffed and ready to continue its important work in upholding justice and protecting the rights of all Coloradans.

Filed Under: Government, State

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