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Mission & History

Blindfolded Lady Justice holding scales against a backdrop of the Colorado state flag

CJI is an independent, nonprofit, nonpartisan, statewide community organization and 501(c)(3) charity. 

Our mission is to promote excellence, equity, impartiality, and public trust in Colorado’s courts through outreach, education, and engagement.

Our members include business and civic leaders, attorneys, judges, and everyday citizens who believe in the importance of supporting Colorado’s courts and preserving our judicial merit selection system.

History & Mission Statement Philosophy

The Colorado Judicial Institute (CJI) was founded in 1979 and our initial mission was to protect and improve Colorado’s judicial merit selection system, adopted by Colorado voters through a 1966 constitutional amendment, and to educate the public about that system.

Since then, CJI’s focus has expanded, and its mission has evolved to reflect that expansion of focus and activities.

CJI carries out its mission to promote excellence, equity, impartiality, and public trust in Colorado’s courts through several programs including:

  • advocacy on behalf of Colorado's courts
  • public education about Colorado's courts, including public presentations through the Our Courts program
  • the Diversity on the Bench initiative, which helps ensure Colorado's courts reflect the diversity of the communities they serve
  • funding support for the continuing education of judges
  • annual awards that recognize outstanding judges
  • learning & networking events for CJI members and non-members such as CLE classes and lectures

Learn How You Can Help!

How can you get involved to help CJI fulfill its mission?

We appreciate your support!