Justice Monica Marquez

Justice Monica Marquez has made history as the first Latina and the first female Hispanic justice to serve on the Colorado Supreme Court. Her appointment to the court in 2010 marked a significant milestone in the state’s judicial history, reflecting the growing diversity of the legal profession and the judiciary. Justice Marquez’s journey to the Colorado Supreme Court is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and commitment to public service.

Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, Justice Marquez developed a strong passion for learning and a desire to make a positive impact in her community. She attended the University of Colorado at Boulder, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and graduated magna cum laude. She then went on to earn her law degree from the University of Colorado Law School, graduating in the top 10% of her class.

After law school, Justice Marquez began her legal career as a law clerk for Judge Carlos Lucero of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. This experience not only deepened her understanding of the judicial system but also instilled in her a strong sense of justice and a commitment to upholding the rule of law. She then worked as a litigation associate at the law firm of Wiley Rein LLP in Washington, D.C., where she honed her skills in trial and appellate advocacy.

Justice Marquez’s ascent to the Colorado Supreme Court was marked by her dedication to public service and her expertise in appellate law. In 2002, she joined the Colorado Attorney General’s Office, where she worked as a senior assistant attorney general and handled numerous high-profile cases before the Colorado Supreme Court and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. Her work in the Attorney General’s Office earned her recognition as one of the top appellate lawyers in the state.

Throughout her career, Justice Marquez has been an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession. She has worked tirelessly to promote diversity and inclusion initiatives, including serving as a mentor to law students and young lawyers from underrepresented backgrounds. Her commitment to these causes has earned her numerous awards and recognition, including the Colorado Hispanic Bar Association’s “Latina Leader of the Year” award.

As a justice on the Colorado Supreme Court, Justice Marquez has brought a unique perspective and a strong voice to the bench. She has written numerous opinions on a wide range of issues, from constitutional law to tort law, and has been recognized for her thoughtful and well-reasoned decisions. Her dedication to the principles of justice, equality, and fairness has earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues, lawyers, and the public.

Justice Marquez’s impact on the Colorado judiciary extends beyond her work on the bench. She has been a leader in promoting judicial education and outreach, working to increase public understanding of the judicial system and to promote civic engagement. She has also been a strong advocate for access to justice, recognizing that the judicial system must be accessible and inclusive for all members of society.

In conclusion, Justice Monica Marquez is a trailblazer in every sense of the word. Her groundbreaking appointment to the Colorado Supreme Court, her tireless advocacy for diversity and inclusion, and her dedication to public service have left an indelible mark on the state’s judicial history. As a role model for young lawyers and a champion of justice, equality, and fairness, Justice Marquez continues to inspire and motivate others to pursue careers in law and public service.

Justice Marquez’s legacy continues to inspire and motivate others to pursue careers in law and public service. Her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion has left a lasting impact on the Colorado judiciary, and her dedication to the principles of justice, equality, and fairness serves as a model for judges and lawyers across the country. As a true pioneer and a champion of justice, Justice Monica Marquez will always be remembered as a trailblazer in the world of law and public service.