Colorado Bar Association Statement on Judicial Independence, Civil Discourse, and Judicial Security

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Denver – October 29, 2024 – The Colorado Bar Association (CBA) is committed to supporting the integrity of our justice system, which is based on impartiality and protected from outside influence. We also affirm the public's right to engage in civil discourse on judicial matters, provided that such discourse remains respectful and promotes the safety of all judicial officials.

With recent calls to remove Colorado Supreme Court Chief Justice Monica M. Márquez on the ballot this November, the CBA is concerned about politically charged efforts aimed at judicial independence. Chief Justice Márquez, a Grand Junction native appointed by Governor Bill Ritter in 2010, has served with dedication and integrity. She is the only justice on this year's ballot to join the majority opinion in Anderson v. Griswold, a decision that has since sparked significant public debate.

Our mission at CBA is to advance member practice, support the justice system, and enrich our community. While we respect and uphold the public's right to express disagreement with judicial decisions, actions aimed at undermining judicial officials cross the line of constructive dialogue. Political pressure and intimidation tactics threaten the independent judiciary that underpins our democratic system and undermine the protections it provides to all Coloradans.
The CBA encourages citizens to participate in informed voting and exercise their civic duties wisely. However, we must also protect the judiciary from political influence and ensure a safe environment in which judges can carry out their duties impartially and without fear. An independent judiciary, protected from coercion and able to make decisions based solely on the law, is essential to maintaining a fair and balanced judiciary for all in Colorado.