Pierce L. Fowler

Judge Fowler presides over civil, criminal, domestic relations and juvenile cases; most originate in Las Animas County and the rest in Huerfano County.

Before his appointment he practiced civil litigation with a small firm in Denver, then opened a family law practice in La Junta and continued in private practice after moving to Trinidad. He received his law degree from the University of Denver. He is an avid cyclist, hands out groceries at community food drives and takes part in other charitable events in Las Animas County.

The Third Judicial District Commission on Judicial Performance voted 7 to 0 that he meets performance standards, with one commissioner vacancy and two commissioners absent. The commission reports that he "receives very good marks for his demeanor in the courtroom" and writes that he "meets performance standards for his communications, fairness, case management, application and knowledge of the law."

The commission also writes: "Some concerns were raised in the performance data and survey responses regarding promptness in ruling on pre-trial motions and issuing decisions in cases." It reports that he "had little familiarity with criminal law prior to taking the bench but indicates he is more knowledgeable and comfortable in handling his criminal caseload, having now presided over many such cases including a significant number of jury trials."