Inga Haagenson Causey

The Fifth Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance finds that Judge Inga Haagenson Causey in a 8-0 vote, with two commissioners absent, MEETS PERFORMANCE STANDARDS .

The Commission observed that Judge Causey is humble, patient, fair, compassionate, introspective, and possesses an impressive desire to learn. Entering her third year on the bench and doing the work of almost two judges in one of the busiest courtrooms in Colorado, she displays excellent management over her docket and has found strong footing within our judicial system. Judge Causey’s docket comprises approximately 78% criminal and misdemeanor, 10% civil litigation, 5% traffic, 5% small claims, 1% domestic relations, and 1% juvenile cases. Judge Causey reflects that she loves and is good at what she does – truly valuing hearing people in court, methodically setting up sustainable systems to keep pace with her large docket, growing community connections through the “Our Court” school-based program, and actively engaging in legislative advocacy to be engaged in the rapidly changing legal landscape. Judge Causey is diligent in her research and provides timely, understandable, and clear written and verbal orders. The Commission applauds her deep commitment to civic engagement within the community including her role in establishing a new Pretrial Services program to provide substance abuse and mental health support, proactively helping community members navigate the judicial system while ensuring community safety. The Commission recognizes Judge Causey’s efforts so far and encourages her to be more assertive in the governance of her courtroom. The Commission would also encourage Judge Causey to continue to find ways for self-health despite the busy schedule.

The Commission conducted a personal interview with Judge Causey, reviewed several of her written opinions, observed her in court, and considered survey results provided by 11 attorneys and 22 non-attorneys, which was a relatively small sample. Judge Causey received consistently positive reviews in her surveys from attorneys and non-attorneys, with slightly lower marks from non-attorneys. The partial year-to-year trend showed a slight increase in overall score despite the smaller survey sample size this year. The most consistent constructive feedback provided in the surveys reflect the need for a second County Court Judge to address the large docket and improve case management, and for Judge Causey to increase assertiveness in courtroom management.

Judge Causey graduated from the University of Colorado - Boulder in 1994, and Tulane University School of Law in 1999. She was appointed to the County Court bench for the Fifth Judicial District in December 2022. Prior to her appointment, Judge Causey served as a Magistrate Judge for the 13th Judicial District, and a Deputy Municipal Judge for the Towns of Minturn and De Beque. She also serves as an adjunct instructor for the Community College of Denver teaching Legal Research and Writing, Constitutional Law, Evidence, Criminal Law, Business Law and the Introduction to Law.

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