DENVER — The Denver County Court Judicial Nomination Commission is accepting applications from qualified attorneys to fill one vacancy for the Denver County Court Bench. The Commission will meet in April 2025 to interview and select nominees for appointment by Mayor Mike Johnston.
The vacancy is created by the retirement of The Honorable Judge Clarisse Gonzales of the Denver County Court Bench.
Judge Gonzales has dedicated her career to being a public servant with the last 20 years on the Denver County Court bench. Judge Gonzales was appointed by Mayor Hickenlooper in 2007 and has served with distinction ever since. She is a well-respected jurist with a legacy of treating others with dignity and respect. Judge Gonzales was practicing procedural fairness long before the term was created. In 2015, Judge Gonzales was awarded the Judicial Excellence Award from the Colorado Judicial Institute. Prior to being on the Denver County Court bench, Judge Gonzales was a District Court Magistrate in the 18th Judicial District, a Guardian Ad Litem representing abused and neglected children, a defense attorney and a prosecutor in the 17th Judicial District. She earned her undergraduate degree at University of Northern Colorado and her law degree from Howard University, School of Law. She has been a mentor to many, a leader in this Court spearheading reform that impact the lives of those DCC serves and coordinated the judges to go out in the community and give back to those in need.
Judge Gonzales’ years of service are deeply appreciated, and she will be greatly missed.