Colorado’s judicial system is under increasing pressure, and the state’s leaders are taking notice. During the annual State of the Judiciary address, Chief Justice Monica Márquez urged lawmakers to support additional funding for new judges across multiple districts. She emphasized the toll current caseloads have taken on judges—many of whom are working nights and weekends and struggling to balance their workloads with family and personal needs. As this conversation gains statewide attention, many residents seeking legal guidance, especially those who may need our Colorado probate lawyer, are watching closely.
The proposed Senate Bill 25-024 would add district court judges in several high-need regions and expand county court judgeships in areas such as Douglas, Larimer, Mesa, Weld, and others. While lawmakers recognize the strain on the system, this request arrives in the middle of a projected $700 million state budget deficit, making any spending increase difficult to approve. Legislators have voiced concerns about the ability to fund new positions while also managing significant cuts elsewhere.
Chief Justice Márquez also addressed ongoing challenges with virtual courtrooms. Since the pandemic, online hearings have become routine, but the technology used was never designed for courtroom operations. This has led to disruptions from bad actors who infiltrate hearings, shout hateful language, or stream inappropriate content. Judges across Colorado have reported emotional and mental strain caused by these constant interruptions. The state recently authorized emergency funding to begin exploring safer technological solutions.
Márquez highlighted the rapid transformation within the judiciary as well. More than half of Colorado’s judges were appointed in 2020 or later, and a significant majority of chief judges are still early in their leadership roles. Her workplace culture initiative, launched in 2022, aims to support this new generation of judicial staff through improved well-being and value-driven leadership practices.
How This Judicial Strain Affects Probate And Estate Matters
The challenges described in the State of the Judiciary shed light on why estate-related cases also face delays. When courts are understaffed, families facing probate proceedings may experience longer timelines and increased frustration. That is where guidance from our Colorado probate attorneys becomes essential. Probate matters often involve sensitive issues such as distributing assets, validating wills, and managing a loved one’s estate—tasks that require steady support, especially when the court system is already strained.
Families often rely on our executor lawyers to help them manage these responsibilities efficiently. With many courts operating beyond capacity, having legal support to handle filings, deadlines, and required documentation can prevent complications and unnecessary delays. For individuals planning ahead, assistance from our will planning lawyers makes sure that their documents are clear, legally sound, and positioned to move through the system smoothly when the time comes.
The Chief Justice’s emphasis on modernization and additional staffing also underscores how important it is to have professionals who understand court procedures and can adapt as systems evolve. Whether dealing with trusts, wills, or asset distribution, our trust execution lawyers help families stay organized and supported through every step of the process. Our firm has been recognized by ThreeBest as a Best Business of 2025. Our clients see that recognition and know that they can trust us with their estate and probate needs. For those in Northern Colorado who need legal aid, we’re always here to help.
At W.B. Moore Law, we understand how stressful probate matters can feel, especially when the courts face the pressures described in this year’s judiciary address. Our team is committed to offering compassionate, knowledgeable, and steady support to families throughout Colorado. If you need a Colorado probate lawyer, we are here to guide you through each stage with clarity and care. For help with planning, estate administration, or probate concerns, contact us today. We are ready to walk with you through the legal process and make sure that your family has the guidance it needs.