The Colorado Constitution: Article VI, the Judicial Branch

This program describes the Colorado Constitution's rules for the judicial branch of government, which are provided in Article VI of the Constitution. The primary courts in the Colorado systems are the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, District Courts, and County Courts. The program describes the constitutional rules for each type of court, including how judges are appointed, their jurisdiction, and appeals from one court to another.

Although District Attorneys are part of the executive branch, their constitutional rules are also in Article VI, and these rules are explained in the program. Judicial discipline has been a controversial issue in Colorado in recent years, and this program explains the constitutional rules for such discipline. Also addressed are the special rules that distinguish Denver courts from all the rest. 

Learning Objectives:

1. Analyze the structure of the various state courts in Colorado
2. Outline the qualifications, appointment procedures, and retention rules for various types of judges
3. Identify the courts with sole or concurrent jurisdiction in different types of cases
4. Recognize the differences between the standard Colorado courts and the Denver courts that arise from Denver's home rule system
5. Break down the rules for ordinary petitions for certiorari, special appeals, direct filings, and writs in the Colorado Supreme Court