Bill > HB1147

This bill addresses fairness and transparency in municipal courts by implementing several key reforms. The legislation aims to align municipal court practices with state court standards, focusing on reducing sentencing disparities and ensuring equal treatment under the law. Specifically, the bill requires municipal courts to provide indigent defense counsel for defendants facing potential incarceration, limits maximum sentences and fines to be consistent with state law, and mandates remote public accessibility for court proceedings. The bill ensures that in-custody municipal defendants are automatically presumed indigent and entitled to court-appointed counsel, and prohibits municipalities from imposing mandatory minimum jail sentences or increased penalties unless comparable state offenses allow such penalties. Additionally, the legislation requires municipal courts to make diligent efforts to resolve cases for defendants in custody and provides guidelines for bond hearings and counsel representation. An important provision delays full implementation for domestic violence cases until April 1, 2026, to allow municipalities time to revise their ordinances and ensure victim protection. The bill reflects broader efforts to create a more equitable and transparent municipal court system that aligns with state legal standards and promotes fair treatment for all defendants.

Justice

https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb25-1147