Erin Lynn Sokol

The Fourth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance unanimously agrees by a vote of 10-0 that Chief Judge Erin Lynn Sokol MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS .

During this term, Judge Sokol has presided over both domestic relations and felony criminal dockets. She currently presides over a felony criminal docket in addition to her administrative responsibilities as Chief Judge. Chief Judge Sokol’s demeanor is described as respectful and dignified. She is clear with her answers to confusing and difficult issues. Her written decisions are also clear and professionally written. Her judicial temperament is particularly calm in demanding situations. Chief Judge Sokol spends time tracking new developments in the law, while also expanding her practical and legal knowledge. In addition to all her judicial responsibilities, she reliably completes all her administrative duties as Chief Judge of the district. Based on these findings, the Commission unanimously agrees that Chief Judge Erin Sokol meets performance standards.

The Commission members observed these qualities during the evaluation period. They met with representatives of the District Attorney’s and Public Defender’s offices for feedback on her performance. The Commission also interviewed Chief Judge Sokol, reviewed opinions she has written, and observed her in court. Surveys were collected, but due to low completion rates, no surveys were provided to the Commission.

Chief Judge Sokol was appointed to the District Court on August 1, 2017. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan in 1996 and her law degree from Georgetown University Law Center in 1999. Before joining the bench, she practiced law in private firms in Washington, D.C. and Colorado Springs. Since her appointment, she has presided over civil, domestic relations, and felony criminal dockets. She was appointed to the role of Chief Judge of the Fourth Judicial District in early 2024 and continues to serve in that role to date. Chief Judge Sokol has been active locally by giving presentations to Leadership Pikes Peak, school groups, the Girl Scouts, college students, the El Paso County Citizen College, and other community organizations and groups. She has also volunteered to preside over high school and college mock-trial competitions, as well as Teen Court trials among other community service activities.

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