Court Rules
Judge

Judge Lin Billings Vela

Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies

Rules last changed:
Fourth Judicial District Court, Colorado

Adjournments

7Calendar Daysnotice
  • Unless extraordinary circumstances apply, a continuance motion must be filed in writing at least seven days before trial and set for hearing no later than the pretrial release and discovery hearing or the pretrial criminal docket hearing.

Communication

Phone
Court-wide

Clerk

Scheduling
Filters:AllMandatoryImportantRedactionsPage LimitsMemorandaJuryTRO/InjunctionExhibitsEvidence/WitnessesSummary Judgment

Document Filing Requirements19 rules

Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

A QRTP assessment must be filed with the Court and served on the specified counsel, representatives, and CASA when assigned.

A QRTP assessment will be filed with the Court and served on counsel of record for the parents/guardians/legal custodians of the subject child/youth assessed, the parent/guardians/legal custodian of the child if pro se, the child/youth’s Guardian ad Litem or child/youth’s Attorney, and Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) if assigned.

Document Type

QRTP Assessment

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Co Elpaso D04:df35dd4ef2d76d39a5e89b33 · Oct 2024 · p. 2
|Sec4. FILING WRITTEN STATUS REPORTS (WSR), MOTIONS FOR PERMANENCY, TREATMENT PLANS, AND QRTP ASSESSMENTS
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

A party asserting privilege must provide the opposing parties a privilege log identifying the general type and page count of each privileged document.

d. If a party asserts an item is privileged, the asserting party must disclose to the opposing parties a privilege log noting the general type of document asserted as privileged and number of pages.

Document Type

Privilege Log

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Co Elpaso D04:df35dd4ef2d76d39a5e89b33 · Oct 2024 · p. 3
|Sec5. DISCLOSURES OF EL PASO COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES RECORDS
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

RPC, GAL/CFY, and CASA must request any additional redactions in writing from OCA.

g. Affirmative Duty to Request Other Redactions or Non-Disclosure of Documents and Records: Other than the redactions listed above, respondent parent counsel (RPC) or GAL/CFY or CASA have an affirmative duty to request additional redaction in writing with the OCA.

Document Type

Redaction Request

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Co Elpaso D04:df35dd4ef2d76d39a5e89b33 · Oct 2024 · p. 4
|Sec5. DISCLOSURES OF EL PASO COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES RECORDS
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

The additional-redaction motion must state the type of information sought to be redacted and briefly explain why redaction is requested.

If no agreement is reached regarding additional redactions, the party requesting the redaction shall file a motion with the court within five (5) days after service of the request, stating the type of additional information the respondent is requesting to be redacted, and a brief explanation outlining why the request is being made.

Document Type

Additional Redaction Motion

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Co Elpaso D04:df35dd4ef2d76d39a5e89b33 · Oct 2024 · p. 4
|Sec5. DISCLOSURES OF EL PASO COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES RECORDS
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

A notice reporting receipt and dissemination of an evaluation or assessment must be filed with the court.

A notice will be filed with the Court stating an evaluation or assessment has been received and disseminated.

Document Type

Notice Of Received Evaluation Or Assessment

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Co Elpaso D04:df35dd4ef2d76d39a5e89b33 · Oct 2024 · p. 5
|Sec5. DISCLOSURES OF EL PASO COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES RECORDS
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Motions requesting specific relief must include a statement about conferring with opposing counsel or making a good-faith effort to confer and provide opposing counsel’s position.

All motions requesting specific relief from the court shall include a statement that the moving party has conferred or made a good faith effort to confer with the opposing counsel and opposing counsel’s position as governed by Rule 121 C.R.C.P. section 1-15(8).

Document Type

Motion

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Conference
Co Elpaso D04:df35dd4ef2d76d39a5e89b33 · Oct 2024 · p. 7
|Sec9. PRETRIAL MOTIONS, PREMANENCY PLANNING MOTIONS AND CERTIFICATE OF CONSULTATION
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

If an expert has not prepared a written report, counsel must provide a summary of the expert's expected testimony.

If the expert has not prepared a written report, counsel shall provide a summary of the witness’ expected testimony.

Document Type

Expert Testimony Summary

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Counsel must meet and prepare an agreed statement of the case for inclusion in the juror notebooks.

Counsel are required to meet and prepare an agreed-upon statement of the case for inclusion in the juror notebooks.

Document Type

Statement Of The Case

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Proposed defense instructions, including the defendant's theory of the case, must be submitted electronically to the court and prosecution before evidence closes.

Any proposed defense instructions, including the defendant’s theory of the case, must be submitted electronically to the Court and prosecution prior to the close of evidence.

Document Type

Defense Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

The District Attorney must provide a complete set of proposed instructions no later than the morning of the first day of trial.

The District Attorney shall provide a complete set of proposed instructions no later than the morning of the first day of trial.

Document Type

Proposed Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Counsel must provide the court with a joint witness list and their respective proposed exhibit charts no later than the morning of trial.

Counsel shall provide the court with a joint witness list and respective proposed exhibit charts no later than the morning of trial.

Document Type

Trial Submission

Content & Formatting
Exhibit List
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Every guilty plea must include a written plea agreement stating its terms.

All guilty pleas must include a written plea agreement outlining the terms of the plea agreement.

Document Type

Guilty Plea

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Mandatory

Unless the district attorney consents to a personal recognizance bond, the defendant must have a surety's written consent to remain on bond pending sentencing, with no exceptions.

Following entry of a guilty plea, unless the D.A. consents to a P.R. bond, the defendant must have written consent of surety to remain on bond pending sentencing. THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS.

Document Type

Surety Consent

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important

Objections must be specific, and the court will strike objections that are stated only generally.

Objections must be made with specificity. The court will strike general objections.

Document Type

Objection

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Co Elpaso D04:df35dd4ef2d76d39a5e89b33 · Oct 2024 · p. 4
|Sec5. DISCLOSURES OF EL PASO COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES RECORDS
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important

When an expert has no written report, a summary of the expert’s opinion must be provided.

If the expert did not prepare a written report, a summary of the expert’s opinion shall be provided.

Document Type

Expert Witness Disclosure

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Co Elpaso D04:df35dd4ef2d76d39a5e89b33 · Oct 2024 · p. 8
|Sec12. EXHIBITS, WITNESS LISTS, AND EXPERT WITNESSES
Filing Requirements

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important

Each party must provide its own proposed instructions for disputed instructions and any additional instructions omitted from the OCA’s packet.

Each party must provide their own proposed instruction(s) for any that are in dispute and any additional instructions not included in the OCA’s packet.

Document Type

Proposed Jury Instructions

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing RequirementsCriminal cases

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026Important

Expert testimony is limited to the expert's disclosed statements, reports, or summary and the reasonable inferences drawn from them.

Expert testimony shall be limited to their statements, reports, or summary and the reasonable inferences which may be drawn there from.

Document Type

Expert Disclosure

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Mandatory?

Unless the court otherwise directs, the OCA shall prepare a written order reflecting the findings and orders of the court after a hearing and shall submit the same for approval no later than fourteen (14) days following the Court hearing.

Summary: Unless the court directs otherwise, the OCA must prepare and submit a written findings-and-orders document for approval within 14 days after the hearing.

Document Type

Long Order

Specific requirements detailed in rule text.
Co Elpaso D04:df35dd4ef2d76d39a5e89b33 · Oct 2024 · p. 6
|Sec6. PREPARATION, EXECUTION, AND OBJECTIONS TO LONG ORDERS
Filing Requirements

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.Important?

Counsel is relieved from conferring under this rule on the following motions: i. Motions for summary judgment ii. Motions concerning allocation of peremptory challenges iii. Motions seeking to limit improper appeals to the trier of fact iv. Motions to sequester witnesses v. Motions for attendance of report authors vi. Permanency motions

Summary: Counsel is excused from the conferral requirement for summary-judgment, peremptory-challenge allocation, improper-appeal limitation, witness-sequestration, report-author attendance, and permanency motions.

Document Type

Motion

Content & Formatting
Certificate Of Conference
Co Elpaso D04:df35dd4ef2d76d39a5e89b33 · Oct 2024 · p. 7
|Sec9. PRETRIAL MOTIONS, PREMANENCY PLANNING MOTIONS AND CERTIFICATE OF CONSULTATION

Filing & Service rules

Electronic Filing Rules

Proposed defense instructions must be submitted electronically to the court and prosecution before the close of evidence.

Any proposed defense instructions, including the defendant’s theory of the case, must be submitted electronically to the Court and prosecution prior to the close of evidence.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 2 | EXHIBITS AND INSTRUCTIONS

An electronic copy of the District Attorney's proposed instructions must be provided to the court and defense.

An electronic copy shall be provided to the Court and defense.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases

Page 2 | EXHIBITS AND INSTRUCTIONS

Filing Timing and Cure Windows

Written treatment plans must be filed and served at least seven days before the dispositional hearing.

All written treatment plans must be filed with the Court and served on all counsel of record or pro se parties no later than seven (7) days prior to the dispositional hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026

Page 2 | 4. FILING WRITTEN STATUS REPORTS (WSR), MOTIONS FOR PERMANENCY, TREATMENT PLANS, AND QRTP ASSESSMENTS

Written status reports and motions for permanency must be filed and served at least five days before the hearing.

All written status reports and motions for permanency must be filed with the Court and served on all counsel of record or pro se parties no later than five (5) days prior to the hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026

Page 2 | 4. FILING WRITTEN STATUS REPORTS (WSR), MOTIONS FOR PERMANENCY, TREATMENT PLANS, AND QRTP ASSESSMENTS

If a redaction request cannot be resolved, the requesting party must file a motion within five days after service of the request that identifies the information to be redacted and briefly explains the request.

If no agreement is reached regarding additional redactions, the party requesting the redaction shall file a motion with the court within five (5) days after service of the request, stating the type of additional information the respondent is requesting to be redacted, and a brief explanation outlining why the request is being made.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026

Page 4 | 5. DISCLOSURES OF EL PASO COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES RECORDS

The OCA's proposed long order must be submitted for approval no later than 14 days after the hearing, unless the court directs otherwise.

Unless the court otherwise directs, the OCA shall prepare a written order reflecting the findings and orders of the court after a hearing and shall submit the same for approval no later than fourteen (14) days following the Court hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026

Page 6 | 6. PREPARATION, EXECUTION, AND OBJECTIONS TO LONG ORDERS

A written motion objecting to expert testimony under Shreck must be filed and served no later than seven days before trial, and failure to file waives the objection.

If counsel for any party objects to the admissibility of any expert testimony as contemplated by People v. Shreck, 22 P.3d68 (Colo.2001), a written motion must be filed and served no later than seven (7) days before trial. Failure to file such motions will be deemed a waiver of Shreck admissibility objections.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026

Page 9 | B.

Unless otherwise ordered, all discovery must be completed no later than 35 days before trial.

Unless otherwise Ordered, all discovery must be completed no later than 35 days before trial.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 1 | DISCOVERY

The District Attorney must provide the defendant and file with the court a good-faith witness list, including addresses and telephone numbers, no later than 35 days before trial.

must provide to the defendant and file with the Court a good faith list of witnesses, including addresses and telephone numbers, no later than 35 days before trial;

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 1 | DISCOVERY — District Attorney

If a motions hearing has not been set, the moving party must set the matter for hearing no later than 35 days before trial.

If a motions hearing has not been set, the moving party shall set the matter for hearing no later than 35 days before trial;

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 1 | MOTIONS

Opposing counsel must provide a written response within 21 days.

opposing counsel shall provide written response within 21 days.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 1 | MOTIONS

The defendant must provide the District Attorney and file with the court the defense theory, good-faith witness list, affirmative defenses, and alibi notice no later than 35 days before trial.

must provide to the District Attorney and file with the Court the defendant’s theory of defense, good faith list of witnesses, including addresses and telephone numbers, designation of affirmative defenses, and notice of alibi no later than 35 days before trial;

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 1 | DISCOVERY — Defendant

All substantive motions must be filed no later than 45 days after arraignment.

All substantive motions shall be filed no later than 45 days after arraignment.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 1 | MOTIONS

The District Attorney's complete proposed-instruction set is due no later than the morning of the first trial day.

The District Attorney shall provide a complete set of proposed instructions no later than the morning of the first day of trial.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 2 | EXHIBITS AND INSTRUCTIONS

Proposed defense instructions are due before the close of evidence.

Any proposed defense instructions, including the defendant’s theory of the case, must be submitted electronically to the Court and prosecution prior to the close of evidence.

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 2 | EXHIBITS AND INSTRUCTIONS

All expert statements and reports must be disclosed to opposing counsel no later than 35 days before trial.

All statements and/or reports of the expert shall be disclosed to opposing counsel no later than 35 days before trial.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 2 | EXPERTS

A requested supplemental questionnaire must be submitted to the court and opposing counsel before the pretrial readiness hearing.

If a supplemental questionnaire is requested, it shall be submitted to the Court and opposing counsel prior to pre-trial readiness.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 2 | JURY SELECTION, OPENING AND CLOSING

Except for continuance and witness-sequestration motions, pretrial motions must be filed and emailed to opposing counsel no later than seven days before trial.

Except for motions for continuance or motions to sequester witnesses, all pretrial motions, shall be filed with the court and copies served on opposing counsel by email no later than seven (7) days before trial.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 7 | 9. PRETRIAL MOTIONS, PREMANENCY PLANNING MOTIONS AND CERTIFICATE OF CONSULTATION

The opposing party has seven days after service of a Rule 56 motion to file and serve its response and opposing affidavits.

The opposing party shall be allowed seven (7) days following service of the motion to file and serve a response and any opposing affidavits.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 7 | 8. MOTIONS FOR SUMMARY JUDGEMENT AND MOTIONS FOR DETERMINATION OF QUESTION OF LAW

A Rule 56 motion must be filed no later than 21 days before the applicable hearing.

Any Rule 56 Motions shall be filed no later than twenty-one (21) days prior to the hearing for which the motion applies.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 7 | 8. MOTIONS FOR SUMMARY JUDGEMENT AND MOTIONS FOR DETERMINATION OF QUESTION OF LAW

A complete response to a document-production request must be served within 21 days after service of the request unless the Court orders a different timeframe.

Complete response to the request shall be served no later than twenty-one (21) days after service of the request, or within the timeframe ordered by the Court.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 7 | 7. DISCOVERY

Witness and exhibit lists must be filed with the court and provided to all parties no later than 14 days before the specified hearings.

No later than fourteen (14) days before a hearing on permanent custody, contested disposition hearing, termination hearings, allocation of parental responsibility hearings (APR), adjudicatory hearing, or other contested hearings, witness lists and exhibit lists shall be filed with the court and provided to all parties.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 8 | 12. EXHIBITS, WITNESS LISTS, AND EXPERT WITNESSES

Expert witnesses must be disclosed no later than 14 days before the hearing, and rebuttal experts no later than seven days before the hearing.

All expert witnesses shall be disclosed no later than fourteen (14) days before the hearings, and rebuttal experts no later than seven (7) days before the hearing.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 8 | 12. EXHIBITS, WITNESS LISTS, AND EXPERT WITNESSES

The joint witness list and proposed exhibit charts must be provided to the court no later than the morning of trial.

Counsel shall provide the court with a joint witness list and respective proposed exhibit charts no later than the morning of trial.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases

Page 2 | EXHIBITS AND INSTRUCTIONS

Exhibits are deemed authentic unless a written objection is filed no later than three days before the hearing.

Authenticity of exhibits is deemed stipulated to unless objected to in writing no later than three (3) days before the hearing.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 8 | 12. EXHIBITS, WITNESS LISTS, AND EXPERT WITNESSES

Service and Proof of Service Rules

A QRTP assessment must be served on counsel of record, the pro se parent, guardian or legal custodian, the child’s Guardian ad Litem or attorney, and the CASA if assigned.

A QRTP assessment will be filed with the Court and served on counsel of record for the parents/guardians/legal custodians of the subject child/youth assessed, the parent/guardians/legal custodian of the child if pro se, the child/youth’s Guardian ad Litem or child/youth’s Attorney, and Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) if assigned.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026

Page 2 | 4. FILING WRITTEN STATUS REPORTS (WSR), MOTIONS FOR PERMANENCY, TREATMENT PLANS, AND QRTP ASSESSMENTS

Written treatment plans must be served on counsel of record and pro se parties at least seven days before the dispositional hearing.

All written treatment plans must be filed with the Court and served on all counsel of record or pro se parties no later than seven (7) days prior to the dispositional hearing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026

Page 2 | 4. FILING WRITTEN STATUS REPORTS (WSR), MOTIONS FOR PERMANENCY, TREATMENT PLANS, AND QRTP ASSESSMENTS

Service on counsel must be accomplished by electronic filing.

Service on counsel shall be accomplished by e-filing.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026

Page 2 | 4. FILING WRITTEN STATUS REPORTS (WSR), MOTIONS FOR PERMANENCY, TREATMENT PLANS, AND QRTP ASSESSMENTS

Answers to requests for admission must be served on opposing counsel within 10 days after service unless the parties agree otherwise in writing.

Any party receiving requests for admission shall serve its answers upon opposing counsel no later than ten (10) days from the date of service, unless otherwise agreed to in writing by parties.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026

Page 6 | 7. REQUEST FOR ADMISSIONS AND/OR INTERROGATORIES AND/OR DEPOSITIONS AND/OR REQUEST FOR PRODUCTION OF DOCUMENTS

Answers to written interrogatories must be served on opposing counsel within 10 days after service unless the parties agree otherwise in writing.

Any party receiving interrogations shall serve its answers upon opposing counsel no later than ten (10) days from the date of service, unless otherwise agreed to in writing by parties.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026

Page 6 | 7. REQUEST FOR ADMISSIONS AND/OR INTERROGATORIES AND/OR DEPOSITIONS AND/OR REQUEST FOR PRODUCTION OF DOCUMENTS

A copy of the long order must be served on all parties when the long order is filed.

Upon the filing of the long order, all parties shall be served a copy.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026

Page 6 | 6. PREPARATION, EXECUTION, AND OBJECTIONS TO LONG ORDERS

The OCA must email proposed jury instructions to chambers and opposing counsel no later than the morning of trial.

The OCA shall deliver the proposed jury instructions to chambers and the opposing counsel by email no later than the morning of trial.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026

Page 8 | 13. ADJUDICATORY TRIALS

A written motion raising a Shreck objection to expert testimony must be served no later than seven days before trial.

If counsel for any party objects to the admissibility of any expert testimony as contemplated by People v. Shreck, 22 P.3d68 (Colo.2001), a written motion must be filed and served no later than seven (7) days before trial.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026

Page 9 | B.

Written status reports and motions for permanency must be served on counsel of record and pro se parties at least five days before the hearing.

All written status reports and motions for permanency must be filed with the Court and served on all counsel of record or pro se parties no later than five (5) days prior to the hearing.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | 4. FILING WRITTEN STATUS REPORTS (WSR), MOTIONS FOR PERMANENCY, TREATMENT PLANS, AND QRTP ASSESSMENTS

The additional-redaction motion must be served on every party and copied to OCA’s discovery email address.

This motion shall be served on all parties and copied to the (OCA) discovery email.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | 5. DISCLOSURES OF EL PASO COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES RECORDS

Sealing & Redaction Procedures

The Petitioner and the El Paso County Department of Human Services Custodian of Records may redact the listed information from specified records before discovery release; other requested redactions must be requested by the party.

f. Limited Redaction: The court finds good cause under C.R.S. §19-1-307(1)(b) for the Petitioner and the El Paso County Department of Human Services Custodian of Records, to redact items listed below, 1-7, from all reports of child abuse and neglect, and all records kept by the custodian of records prior to release in discovery. Redactions, when possible, will note which paragraph the redacted information falls under. The OCA need not do any other redactions. If other redactions are requested, the party has an affirmative duty to request. See section e. 1. The reporting party and associated identifying information; 3 ===== PAGE 4 ===== 2. Any foster placement names and addresses and kinship address; 3. All Social Security numbers; 4. All dates of birth of non-parties;

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026

Page 3 | 5. DISCLOSURES OF EL PASO COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES RECORDS

OCA/DHS may not release background-check information, including Accurint, CBI, or NCIC results, without a further court order.

5. Background check information, including Accurint search results, CBI search results and/or NCIC search results, OCA/DHS cannot release without further court order;

Checked and corrected to match the court's document on Oct 4, 2026

Page 4 | 5. DISCLOSURES OF EL PASO COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES RECORDS

Whenever possible, a redaction should identify the paragraph in which the redacted information appears.

Redactions, when possible, will note which paragraph the redacted information falls under.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026

Page 3 | 5. DISCLOSURES OF EL PASO COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES RECORDS

The QRTP assessment must be filed as a suppressed document.

The assessment will be filed as suppressed.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 2 | 4. FILING WRITTEN STATUS REPORTS (WSR), MOTIONS FOR PERMANENCY, TREATMENT PLANS, AND QRTP ASSESSMENTS

The Petitioner and the El Paso County Department of Human Services Custodian of Records may redact items 1-7 from child abuse and neglect reports and the custodian’s records before discovery release; other requested redactions require an affirmative request.

f. Limited Redaction: The court finds good cause under C.R.S. §19-1-307(1)(b) for the Petitioner and the El Paso County Department of Human Services Custodian of Records, to redact items listed below, 1-7, from all reports of child abuse and neglect, and all records kept by the custodian of records prior to release in discovery. Redactions, when possible, will note which paragraph the redacted information falls under. The OCA need not do any other redactions. If other redactions are requested, the party has an affirmative duty to request. See section e.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 3 | 5. DISCLOSURES OF EL PASO COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES RECORDS

Attorney-client privileged materials, including work product, and items whose dissemination is prohibited by law must be redacted; qualifying DHS-held items may be viewed by arrangement with OCA.

6. Items subject to attorney client privilege to include work product; 7. Items to which dissemination is prohibited by law (child pornographic photos). If such items are in the possession of DHS, parties can arrange with the OCA to view them at their office.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 4 | 5. DISCLOSURES OF EL PASO COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES RECORDS

Pre-Motion Conference Requirements

The defendant's late endorsements will be considered only after a proper motion, notice, and hearing.

late endorsements will only be considered upon proper motion, notice, and hearing; and

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 1 | DISCOVERY — Defendant

All motions, including motions in limine, must be heard at the motions hearing unless the court orders otherwise.

All motions, including motions in limine, must be heard at the motions hearing unless otherwise Ordered.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 1 | SCHEDULING

A requested contested hearing must be preceded by a good-faith conference and review hearing, in that order.

When a contested hearing is requested, the Court shall set a good faith conference, a review hearing, and the contested hearing in this chronological order.

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below.

Page 8 | 11. CONTESTED HEARINGS

The District Attorney's late endorsements will be considered only after a proper motion, notice, and hearing.

late endorsements will only be considered upon proper motion, notice, and hearing;

Not confirmed. Read the court's wording below. · Criminal cases

Page 1 | DISCOVERY — District Attorney

Adjournment & Extension Requirements

Absent extraordinary circumstances, the Court will not accept a joint continuance motion or grant a requested continuance on the day of trial.

ABSENT EXTRAORDINARY CIRCUMSTANCES, the Court will not accept joint motions to continue or grant continuances at the request of either party on the day of trial.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 3 | MISCELLANEOUS

Unless extraordinary circumstances apply, a continuance motion must be filed in writing at least seven days before trial and set for hearing no later than the pretrial release and discovery hearing or the pretrial criminal docket hearing.

ABSENT EXTRAORDINARY CIRCUMSTANCES, the Court will not accept joint motions to continue or grant continuances at the request of either party on the day of trial. Any motion seeking a continuance must be filed in writing at least 7 days before trial and set for hearing no later than the PTRD hearing or criminal docket before trial.

Checked against the court's document on Oct 4, 2026 · Criminal cases

Page 3 | MISCELLANEOUS

Court-wide rules

Applies court-wide

These 128 rules apply across Fourth Judicial District Court, Colorado. Where this judge's own standing orders above address the same topic, the judge's requirement controls.

E-Filing

All 43
  • Applies to
    Fingerprint identification card

    A fingerprint identification card may never be filed electronically in any case.

  • Applies to
    Exhibits

    Attorneys must upload documentary exhibits to CCE in their original format, preferably in grayscale, before or within 21 days after a hearing or trial.

  • Applies to
    Exhibits

    Court staff must scan and upload pro se party exhibits into the jPOD system.

Filing Requirements

All 35
  • Applies to
    Jury instructions

    Nonstandard proposed instructions must omit supporting authority on the instruction itself, while counsel must provide a copy of the supporting authority for the Court and opposing counsel to review.

  • Applies to
    Affidavit re mediation requirements

    For a landlord or agent owning five or fewer single-family rental homes and no more than five total rental units, the affidavit must attest familiarity with the statute and state that mandatory mediation is not required.

  • Applies to
    Affidavit re mediation requirements

    For a landlord or agent owning more than five single-family rental homes or more than five total rental units, the affidavit must state that the residential tenant's household does not receive specified public benefits, did not disclose receiving them after written inquiry, or both, and that mandatory mediation is not required.

Filing Timing

All 21
  • Parties must file all motions, including motions in limine, within 35 days after the jury trial is scheduled.

  • A motion hearing must occur at least 30 days before trial, and the moving party must initiate scheduling the hearing.

  • The defendant must provide and file the specified defense disclosures no later than 20 days before trial.

Formatting

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  • A party appearing for trial in person must bring three copies of its exhibits.

  • Plaintiffs must number their trial exhibits beginning with 1, and defendants must label their trial exhibits beginning with A.

  • Format
    PAPER

    The court accepts only original paper copies of the fingerprint card, photographs, and signed compliance with the Fingerprint Order.

About Judge Lin Billings Vela

District Court Judge for the 4th Judicial District, Division 1, El Paso County.

- Courtroom: Division 01 Room S405 - Courthouse: El Paso County Judicial Building, 270 S Tejon St Colorado Springs, CO 80903 United States - Phone: 719-452-5229 - Email: D04_Courts_Div1@judicial.state.co.us

Common questions about Judge Lin Billings Vela's rules

Does Judge Lin Billings Vela require a pre-motion conference or letter before filing a motion?

Judge Lin Billings Vela's rules set a pre-motion procedure for contested hearings. A requested contested hearing must be preceded by a good-faith conference and review hearing, in that order.

View ruleSource: page 8, section 11. CONTESTED HEARINGS

What must be included with notice of received evaluation or assessment filings before Judge Lin Billings Vela?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. A notice reporting receipt and dissemination of an evaluation or assessment must be filed with the court.

View ruleSource: page 5, section 5. DISCLOSURES OF EL PASO COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES RECORDS

What must be included with long order filings before Judge Lin Billings Vela?

The rule identifies required filing content or certificates. Unless the court directs otherwise, the OCA must prepare and submit a written findings-and-orders document for approval within 14 days after the hearing.

View ruleSource: page 6, section 6. PREPARATION, EXECUTION, AND OBJECTIONS TO LONG ORDERS

How does Judge Lin Billings Vela handle sealed or redacted filings?

Judge Lin Billings Vela's rules set procedures for sealed or redacted filings. The QRTP assessment must be filed as a suppressed document.

View ruleSource: page 2, section 4. FILING WRITTEN STATUS REPORTS (WSR), MOTIONS FOR PERMANENCY, TREATMENT PLANS, AND QRTP ASSESSMENTS

How do I request an adjournment or extension before Judge Lin Billings Vela?

Advance notice is not fully stated in the structured details. Absent extraordinary circumstances, the Court will not accept a joint continuance motion or grant a requested continuance on the day of trial.

View ruleSource: page 3, section MISCELLANEOUS

Is electronic filing required before Judge Lin Billings Vela?

Yes. Electronic filing is required for the covered filings. An electronic copy of the District Attorney's proposed instructions must be provided to the court and defense.

View ruleSource: page 2, section EXHIBITS AND INSTRUCTIONS

What filing deadlines apply to written status reports and motions for permanency filings before Judge Lin Billings Vela?

Written status reports and motions for permanency must be filed and served at least five days before the hearing.

View ruleSource: page 2, section 4. FILING WRITTEN STATUS REPORTS (WSR), MOTIONS FOR PERMANENCY, TREATMENT PLANS, AND QRTP ASSESSMENTS

What rule applies to service for written status reports and motions for permanency before Judge Lin Billings Vela?

The rule addresses service method, recipient, or timing requirements. Details: timing: before hearing. Written status reports and motions for permanency must be served on counsel of record and pro se parties at least five days before the hearing.

View ruleSource: page 2, section 4. FILING WRITTEN STATUS REPORTS (WSR), MOTIONS FOR PERMANENCY, TREATMENT PLANS, AND QRTP ASSESSMENTS
Complete rules summary for Judge Lin Billings Vela

A notice reporting receipt and dissemination of an evaluation or assessment must be filed with the court.

Unless the court directs otherwise, the OCA must prepare and submit a written findings-and-orders document for approval within 14 days after the hearing.

Written status reports and motions for permanency must be filed and served at least five days before the hearing.

Written status reports and motions for permanency must be served on counsel of record and pro se parties at least five days before the hearing.

Written treatment plans must be filed and served at least seven days before the dispositional hearing.

Written treatment plans must be served on counsel of record and pro se parties at least seven days before the dispositional hearing.

A QRTP assessment must be filed with the Court and served on the specified counsel, representatives, and CASA when assigned.

A QRTP assessment must be served on counsel of record, the pro se parent, guardian or legal custodian, the child’s Guardian ad Litem or attorney, and the CASA if assigned.

The OCA's proposed long order must be submitted for approval no later than 14 days after the hearing, unless the court directs otherwise.

The QRTP assessment must be filed as a suppressed document.

Service on counsel must be accomplished by electronic filing.

A party asserting privilege must provide the opposing parties a privilege log identifying the general type and page count of each privileged document.

The Petitioner and the El Paso County Department of Human Services Custodian of Records may redact the listed information from specified records before discovery release; other requested redactions must be requested by the party.

The Petitioner and the El Paso County Department of Human Services Custodian of Records may redact items 1-7 from child abuse and neglect reports and the custodian’s records before discovery release; other requested redactions require an affirmative request.

OCA/DHS may not release background-check information, including Accurint, CBI, or NCIC results, without a further court order.

Attorney-client privileged materials, including work product, and items whose dissemination is prohibited by law must be redacted; qualifying DHS-held items may be viewed by arrangement with OCA.

Whenever possible, a redaction should identify the paragraph in which the redacted information appears.

RPC, GAL/CFY, and CASA must request any additional redactions in writing from OCA.

If a redaction request cannot be resolved, the requesting party must file a motion within five days after service of the request that identifies the information to be redacted and briefly explains the request.

The additional-redaction motion must state the type of information sought to be redacted and briefly explain why redaction is requested.

Objections must be specific, and the court will strike objections that are stated only generally.

The additional-redaction motion must be served on every party and copied to OCA’s discovery email address.

A copy of the long order must be served on all parties when the long order is filed.

Answers to requests for admission must be served on opposing counsel within 10 days after service unless the parties agree otherwise in writing.

Answers to written interrogatories must be served on opposing counsel within 10 days after service unless the parties agree otherwise in writing.

A complete response to a document-production request must be served within 21 days after service of the request unless the Court orders a different timeframe.

A Rule 56 motion must be filed no later than 21 days before the applicable hearing.

The opposing party has seven days after service of a Rule 56 motion to file and serve its response and opposing affidavits.

Except for continuance and witness-sequestration motions, pretrial motions must be filed and emailed to opposing counsel no later than seven days before trial.

Motions requesting specific relief must include a statement about conferring with opposing counsel or making a good-faith effort to confer and provide opposing counsel’s position.

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