Judge Isabel Pallarés
September/October 2024
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Judge Pallarés was appointed to the Denver County Court in 2017. Prior to her appointment, Judge Pallarés clerked for Chief Judge Michael A. Martinez of the Second Judicial District. She also served as the chief deputy district attorney for the Denver district attorney’s sexual assault unit, prosecuting cases in Denver County Court, Denver Juvenile Court, and Denver District Court. Judge Pallarés also interned for Judge Daniel Sparr of the US District Court for the District of Colorado, as well as for the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Although Judge Pallarés’s career and current work are impressive on their own, it’s her community involvement that sets her apart. When asked what she loves most about being a judge, she says it’s “the privilege to serve the people of the city and county of Denver and being afforded the unique opportunity to give back to the community.”
Judge Pallarés gives back in many ways, including in her commitment to several diversity bars. She also volunteers as a member of Our Courts—a collaboration among citizens, lawyers, and judges that provides nonpartisan information to the public about state and federal courts. She is also active in Chamber Chats, an organization that allows diverse judicial officers to communicate informally with one another. Through that work, Judge Pallarés has provided support and mentorship to many diverse judicial officers around the state.
Judge Pallarés notes that “community can be as small as between two people and as limitless as you allow,” and that “community means unity. It is a place where you feel a sense of connection and that you belong.”
And those that know Judge Pallarés know that she does that effortlessly—she makes you feel like you belong. It’s no wonder that when asked what her career would be if it were something other than judge or lawyer, she answered, “I would find the most fulfillment in a public service role. I truly enjoy working for and with my community.”
Thank you for all you do for our community, Judge Pallarés!
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The Diversity on the Bench Coalition is a partnership between the CBA and the Colorado Judicial Institute aimed at promoting a diverse bench that reflects Colorado’s diverse population. It leverages community partnerships to provide education and resources to aspiring candidates, key decision-makers, and the community at large. The Diversity on the Bench Spotlight is one initiative of many—if you’re interested in being featured in the spotlight or volunteering in some other capacity, please email diversity@cobar.org.
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