Colorado State Archives

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

(Denver) - Governor Bill Owens announced the appointment of James Schum of Hotchkiss to the Seventh Judicial District Court effective July 1. He fills a new judgeship created pursuant to House Bill 01-1075 and funded by the Colorado legislature this year. The Seventh Judicial District encompasses Delta, Gunnison, Hinsdale, Montrose, Ouray and San Miguel counties.

"Jim Schum will bring a wealth of experience from having served nine years as District Court Magistrate," said Owens. "He shows a good blend of fairness, firm-handedness, efficiency, and the ability to work with people to find solutions to difficult issues. I am confident that Jim will continue to serve the citizens of this district well."

As magistrate, Schum adjudicated family court matters, conducted settlement conferences and assisted the three sitting district judges. He also has served as a substitute county judge for extended periods in two county courts in the district. In 2000, Schum was named Employee of the Year for the Seventh Judicial District and was one of three finalists for Colorado Judicial Officer of the Year.

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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