GOLDEN, Colo. (Oct. 24, 2024) – The First Judicial District will host another Fresh Start warrant forgiveness event at the Jefferson County Administration and Courts Facility in Golden on Saturday, November 2, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
People with active warrants for non-violent, low-level offenses in Gilpin or Jefferson counties will once again have an opportunity to either resolve their case or set a new court date. On November 2, for the first time, attorneys will be available virtually in Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, and Pueblo Counties for anyone who also has a low-level warrant in these participating jurisdictions. This has been a barrier in the past when someone cannot resolve their warrant due to a similar low-level warrant in another jurisdiction. With other jurisdictions holding an event at the same date and time, individuals can connect virtually and get back on track to resolve their cases.
This event offers relief to individuals looking for a fresh start who are tired of living in fear of arrest and ready to move toward a resolution in their case. Additionally, by reducing the number of low-level warrants, we ensure that law enforcement, the judiciary, and taxpayer resources can focus on addressing cases that pose a community safety risk.
The First Judicial District has successfully hosted six events since 2021, resolving nearly 450 warrants to date. All attorneys and court staff generously volunteer their time on the weekend to support this initiative. These efforts have not only brought relief to hundreds of people but also saved thousands of taxpayer dollars.
This event is possible thanks to the collaborative effort between the First Judicial District Attorney’s Office, the Colorado State Public Defender’s Office, the First Judicial District Courts, First Judicial District Probation Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Justice Services, and C3.
“It’s truly inspiring to see the level of cooperation among multiple agencies working together for public safety,” said District Attorney Alexis King. “Given the tremendous success we’ve achieved in Jeffco, we are optimistic about the potential impact of this additional layer of collaboration from neighboring jurisdictions and believe it will further reduce the barriers that prevent individuals from getting back on track.”
While most eligible warrants are for non-violent misdemeanors or traffic cases, eligibility may extend to individuals with non-violent, low-level felonies that have been reclassified as misdemeanors and some low-level felony drug and property offenses.
As always, the event excludes people charged or convicted of an offense under the Victim Rights Act – such as assault, child abuse, unlawful sexual contact, or domestic violence. In addition, people with weapons offenses and those with second or subsequent cases involving driving under the influence or driving while ability impaired are not eligible for the event.
Public defenders will again be available to review eligibility and provide legal consultation to qualifying defendants at no cost. To check eligibility for probation violation cases, individuals should email [email protected], and for all other cases, email [email protected]. The event does not require an appointment to be made in advance.
Alongside addressing warrants, participants will have access to support services, including legal aid, housing, counseling, and job placement programs from the following community partners: Community Connections Center (C3), Benefits in Action, Hazelbrook Sober Living, Bayaud Enterprises, Ke’nekt, Master’s Apprentice, Jefferson Center, Empower Recovery Homes, Advocates for Recovery, Courthouse Resource Center, United Way, and Behavioral Treatment Services. This holistic approach aims to empower individuals to build a better future.
Please visit www.jeffco.us/4346 for more information.