Private Judge
How Can I Hire A Private Judge?
In Colorado, a private judge can be appointed in a domestic relations case. To have a private judge in your case, both parties must:
- Agree to the procedure.
- Mutually decide who will hear the case.
- Privately pay the judge.
In addition, the appointed judge must be a person who formerly served as a justice or judge in the Colorado Courts for more than 6 years.
Once these requirements are met, the appointed judge will manage and hear the parties' case as though it was before the District Court, and the judge’s decisions are submitted to and become the orders of the District Court. Appointment of a private judge allows the parties to schedule the litigation based on the needs of their individual case, rather than based on the court’s docket. The procedure allows the parties access to the same appeal process that they would have in the District Court. A private judge must be appointed by the Chief Justice of the Colorado Supreme Court under C.R.S. §13-3-111 (C.R.C.P. 122).
Why Should I Hire A Private Judge?
Depending on your situation, it may be incredibly beneficial to hire a private judge. Not only do you have more of a say in who you will present your case to, you will likely have it heard far sooner than you would have if you limited yourself to a court-appointed justice. However, it’s important to remember that one party can’t select the judge of their choosing in an attempt to put themselves in an advantageous position. Both parties need to agree, and that may involve additional negotiations in order to determine your final choice.
Another benefit is the increased level of privacy a private judge can provide. Your cases held in private are still considered public records, but holding the proceedings outside of the courthouse can give you an added layer of privacy by preventing random passersby from entering the courtroom – something that can happen during a typical trial.
The Harris Law Firm Difference
WE CARE ABOUT OUR CLIENTS, OUR TEAM, & OUR COMMUNITY
Since 1993, our commitment has been to provide the best possible client outcomes through compassionate and effective representation. If you are facing a divorce or related family law matter, estate planning or tax issue, please contact our helpful, compassionate, and understanding attorneys to request a legal evaluation or you can submit your information to ask a legal question. We look forward to helping you!
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Our Team
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Our Clients
You come to us for guidance, support and assistance at a trying time. We take this responsibility very seriously. You deserve a high level of service and excellent legal representation. WE CARE about your challenges, solutions and process for resolution.
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Our Testimonials
Hear it from Our clients
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"I finally feel like someone is advocating for me."The best thing I have done during my contentious, high conflict divorce was to kindly say goodbye to my former attorney and to move forward with The Harris Law Firm. I finally feel like someone is advocating for me.- David
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"I AM THRILLED and relieved and so ready to move forward."I AM THRILLED and relieved and so ready to move forward. Thank you, everyone, for your hard work on behalf of my sweet daughter. God bless you!!- Jeni
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"I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart."Sangeetha, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all that you did to help me get this settlement. Thank you for trying to keep the hours down on this case. You are truly more than an attorney. In this case somewhat of a super hero. Thanks again.- Mark
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"My family and I deeply appreciate it."Thank you both for everything you have done to help me have my daughter in my life. My family and I deeply appreciate it.- Paul
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"I would like to thank the team for your patience with us through what has been a very difficult process for us both."We had a successful conclusion to all of our work this morning. The court commented on the fine work that had been done using a combination of the collaborative process and our independent efforts. I would like to thank the team for your patience with us through what has been a very difficult process for us both.- Mark
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"I am grateful that you represented me because you are smart, talented, generous and kind, and I want to thank you for being you!"I am grateful that you represented me because you are smart, talented, generous and kind, and I want to thank you for being you!- Rachel
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"I am so grateful for your professionalism"I am so grateful for your professionalism- Linda
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"I can not ever thank you enough."You have helped my family so much....there are no words.- M.P.
