With a heavy heart, CHBA mourns the loss of longtime member and former 4th Judicial District Chief Judge Gilbert Martinez. Judge Martinez was a notable member of our community and a mentor, role model, and good friend to numerous Latino attorneys and judges in Colorado. Judge Martinez leaves us an honorable legacy, demonstrating excellence in everything he accomplished.
Judge Martinez was born in Trinidad, graduated from Northglenn High School, and earned his Bachelors and Juris Doctorate degrees from the University of Colorado. After graduating from law school, he completed a one-year fellowship with Pikes Peak Legal Service before joining the Office of the Public Defender in Colorado Springs. Judge Martinez served there eleven years, five of which he led the offices.
In 1989, Governor Roy Romer appointed Judge Martinez to the District Court, where he served for 28 years, 18 of which were as Chief Judge over two terms. Judge Martinez served as the Dean of the New Judge Orientation School for approximately 20 years. After he retired from the District Court in 2017, he became a mentor to many judges and chief judges throughout the state. His leadership has helped shape future judges and leaders. CHBA cherishes Judge Martinez’ lasting impact.