Colorado State Archives

Executive Orders from the Administration of Governor Bill Owens 1999-2005

(DENVER) – Governor Bill Owens today announced the appointment of David M. Thorson of Fairplay as District Court Judge in the 11th Judicial District, serving Chaffee, Custer, Fremont, and Park Counties. This vacancy was created by the retirement of the Honorable Kenneth M. Plotz.

"David Thorson's experience, knowledge of the law, and commitment to the well-being of the community will serve the citizens of the 11th Judicial District well," said Owens.

Thorson is currently the Senior Deputy District Attorney for the 11th Judicial District, responsible for Park County. From 1981 to 1988, he was in private practice in Breckenridge. Thorson's legal specialties are criminal prosecution, real-estate law, business organization, and municipal law. He also does pro bono legal work for the Mountain Rescue Association and The Colorado Search and Rescue Board. Thorson has also served as town attorney for Alma and Fairplay. He earned his undergraduate degree from Pacific Lutheran University and his law degree from the University of Puget Sound School of Law.

The initial term of office for a district court judge is a provisional term of two years, after which the incumbent must stand for retention to serve an additional six years. The annual salary for this position is $107,044.

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