Presented to the Joint Local Government Committee.

This issue brief outlines Colorado's efforts to address issues associated with persons with mental illness in the criminal justice system.

 The U.S. Constitution guarantees each citizen the right to a fair trial, which includes the right to be present at the trial, able to understand the nature of the proceedings, and able to participate in his or her defense.  Whether the defendant’s mental health impaired his or her ability to...

This issue brief provides an overview of how the justice system treats juveniles found guilty of a crime in Colorado.  It discusses juvenile problem solving courts; detention and commitment; the facilities where juveniles are housed; the programs and services available; requirements for...

Colorado law imposes standards on, and grants certain responsibilities to, persons considered peace officers, including the authority to enforce Colorado law.  This issue brief provides information on training and certification of peace officers, reserve officers, and the process for...

According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, approximately 10.3 percent of Colorado’s population reported having a disability in 2015.  Many of those individuals use a service animal or assistance animal to cope with their disability.  This issue brief defines the...

This memorandum provides a legislative history of county courthouse funding in Colorado.  Specifically, this memorandum provides information on:

• the origins of county courthouse funding laws;
• notable legal decisions regarding county courthouse funding;
• county
...