H_JUD_2020A 02/05/2020 08:04:50 AM Committee Summary

Senator Lee called the meeting to order and made Introductory remarks.

Tom Raynes, executive director of the Colorado District Attorneys' Council, provided an overview of elected district attorney (DA) compensation and the state's role.  He distributed a salary review information sheet, which highlights elected DA salaries and outlines a recommendation for incremental salary increases that utlimately align with those of district court judges (Attachment A).   

Bruce Brown, District Attorney for the 5th Judicial District, discussed the need for DA salaries to keep pace with the market.  He compared DA salaries with county attorneys and public defenders.  He stressed that higher pay will assist in attracting more qualified candidates.

Cliff Riedel, District Attorney for the 8th Judicial District, discussed the importance of attracting and retaining qualified candidates. 

Kaitlin Turner, District Attorney for the 11th Judicial District, discussed DA salaries and provided comparative salary information. 

Christian Champagne, District Attorney for the 6th Judicial District, participated via phone and made points about recruitment and retention. 

Committee discussion followed about attorney shortages in rural counties.  Further discussion ensued about aligning DA salaries with district court judges. 

The committee discussed steps going forward and the state's obligation.  Committee members discussed the possibility of a bill that would incrementally bring DA salaries up to the ones of district court judges.