Presiding Municipal Judge

  • CITY OF LOVELAND, COLORADO
  • 500 E. Third Street, Loveland, Colorado
  • Jun 08, 2024
Full Time Legal Services

Job Description

All applications must be submitted through GovHR to be considered, please click here to apply.

Join the City of Loveland, a community of close relationships with non-profit organizations, community organizations/members, where people are invested in each other and serving the community well. With a population of 82,460, Loveland is located at the entrance to the Big Thompson Canyon and is hailed as the Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park. As the second most populous city in Larimer County and the 14th most populous in Colorado, Loveland is a Home Rule Municipality offering the convenience of a small town with all the amenities of a larger city.

As the Presiding Municipal Judge you will sit as a trial judge of the Loveland Municipal Court to adjudicate traffic, criminal, parking, and other municipal code violations, and other cases including through the City’s innovative Jumpstart program (designed to address the unique challenges associated with the City of Loveland's homeless population and individuals who are experiencing situational crisis) as well as the Loveland Teen Court.

Why work in Loveland?

Nestled in the heart of Northern Colorado, Loveland offers a unique blend of professional and personal advantages that make it an ideal place for a municipal judge. The city boasts a highly trained and educated workforce, supported by its proximity to two major universities and large community college systems within a 30-minute drive. Loveland’s municipally owned utility ensures reliable and affordable services, among the lowest in the state. Commuting is a breeze with easy access from I-25 and state highways 34 and 287, and Denver International Airport is just a 45-minute drive away. Loveland is not only an economic hub, producing 89% of Colorado’s oil and 70% of its craft beer, but also a gateway to the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park, offering unparalleled natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Join a community that values both professional excellence and quality of life.

About the Role

As the Presiding Municipal Judge, you will oversee the Loveland Municipal Court, which operates on a schedule of Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Mondays and Fridays offer flexibility for administrative duties and occasional jury trials, typically two to three times per year. The Municipal Court enjoys a strong reputation for organization and community engagement, and the new Presiding Judge will be expected to uphold this standard while fostering collaboration. Given current budget reductions due to changes in sales tax revenue collections, the Presiding Judge will work closely with the City Manager to ensure appropriate staffing and resource levels. Join us in Loveland where your role as a Municipal Judge will make a meaningful impact on the community.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for the Municipal Judge position will be a collaborative leader who fosters a positive working environment and values partnership over separation. They should exhibit patience and respect in all communications and relationships, ensuring a supportive atmosphere for clerks and defendants alike. The judge must be adept at multitasking and proficient with tools like email, Zoom, and Teams. A commitment to fairness is essential, with the judge holding everyone to the same standards, rejecting bullying, and being open to feedback on court staff structure and positions. Additionally, the judge should focus on factual, rule-based guidance for defendants, maintain consistency in court presence and rulings, and provide robust support to the court team, recognizing the challenges faced by court clerks.

Qualifications
  • Law Degree
  • 5 years of experience in municipal court administration or equivalent criminal municipal courtroom experience
  • Licensed to practice law in the State of Colorado
  • 2 years of experience in a management or leadership position is preferred
Salary, Benefit, and Application Process Information

The salary range for this position is $175,000 - $205,000 with a starting salary to be commensurate with the candidates’ experience, with excellent benefits.

Please view and apply for our Loveland, CO Presiding Municipal Judge position by clicking here

Candidates must apply by July 8, 2024, with resume, cover letter and contact information for five work-related references to the attention of John Prejzner, Senior Vice President, GovHR USA, Tel: (224) 326-1360. The City of Loveland, CO is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Application Deadline: July 8, 2024

Only applications submitted through GovHR will be considered.

Job Address

500 E. Third Street, Loveland, Colorado 80537 United States View Map