Governor Hickenlooper [2] has until Thursday to name a new justice to the Colorado Supreme Court. [3] (The vacancy is created by Justice Alex J. Martinez [4], who is leaving to become Denver’s Manager of Safety.) On October 13, Hickenlooper received a list of three finalists from the Supreme Court Nominating Commission. He interviewed the candidates Friday, and Lt. Governor Joe Garcia [5] will interview them today. We looked through their applications to give you some insight into their qualifications and personal lives. 

Brian Boatright [6], Arvada: A graduate of the University of Denver [7], Boatright currently serves as a district court judge in Jefferson County, where he has jurisdiction over all juvenile matters. He is married and has two children, a son and a daughter. Boatright likes to read the same books his kids are reading, so they can discuss the stories as a family. He is an active member of his church (he’s an usher at St. Joseph’s [8]) and recently read Malcolm Gladwell's Blink [9].

Frederick Martinez [10], Castle Pines: Martinez went to law school at the University of Colorado [11], and currently works at Denver's Hall & Evans [12] law firm. Martinez’s focus is defense litigation of individuals, professionals, and transportation corporations. He coached youth soccer for several years and has volunteered with the Denver Rescue Mission [13]. A lifelong runner, Martinez was the captain of his high school cross country team, and is now a dedicated yoga practitioner. He has a wife, son, daughter, and an Australian shepherd named Luna.

Patrick O’Rourke [14], Highlands Ranch: In his role as head litigation attorney for the University of Colorado, O’Rourke is responsible for the defense of all litigation brought against the university. He attended Georgetown University Law Center [15], and is an avid reader. He has a wife, son, and daughter, and enjoys taking mini-vacations around Colorado with his family. In his free time, O’Rourke likes skiing and bike riding. 

The new justice will hold office for a provisional term of two years. After that, he will  be eligible for a ten-year term, if retained in a statewide election.