Attorneys in Colorado’s 5th Judicial District are being invited to attend a panel discussion focused on the path to becoming a judge. The event, titled “Pathways to the Bench: Do I Want to Become a Judge, and, if so, What Should I Do?” will take place on October 29, 2025, at Sonnenalp Vail in Vail.
The panel will feature judges from the district who will share their experiences and insights about judicial service. Topics include personal and professional backgrounds of judges, early career paths, motivations for seeking judicial office, and an overview of the application and appointment process in Colorado. The discussion will also cover distinctions between nominating and appointment phases, as well as practical advice from both sitting judges and a member of a judicial nominating committee.
Participants will learn about daily responsibilities on the bench, types of cases typically handled, managing dockets with self-represented litigants, decision-making processes, discretion in rulings, and ethical considerations.
Chief Judge Paul Dunkelman emphasized the importance of community engagement with the judiciary. “A strong and independent judiciary is vital to the health of our communities,” said Dunkelman. “Whether or not you’re currently thinking about a future on the bench, this is a unique opportunity to engage directly with judges from your community, to hear their stories, ask questions, and build valuable connections.”
The event is sponsored by the Judicial Officer Outreach Program along with local bar associations including the Continental Divide Bar Association and Mountain Chapter of the Colorado Women’s Bar Association.
Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP by contacting Braden Angel at Angel Law Firm of Colorado via braden@angellawoffice.com. For more information about the event itself, contact Nga Vương-Sandoval at nga.vuongsandoval@judicial.state.co.us.
