Downtown Colorado Springs is home to both the El Paso County Courthouse (4th Judicial District of Colorado) and to the Municipal (or “City”) Courthouse. They are only a few blocks from each other, and when I’m in court, I often hear people asking directions for the other building.
These courts handle different types of cases, are located at separate addresses, and operate under distinct statutory frameworks. This post will clarify the differences between the two, using Colorado Springs as an example. There are, of course, other municipal courts in our County, including Monument, Fountain, Manitou Springs, etc. Some of the smaller towns will hire outside Judges or prosecutors part-time because their dockets aren’t very big. For example, the Town of Calhan’s Municipal Court only has court every other month.
The most important thing: Look at your ticket! It will give you an address and a time/date to appear. Pay attention to the address on your summons, and that will save you a lot of rushing around to make it on time to the other courthouse.
Colorado Springs Municipal Court: Local Ordinance Enforcement
Location: Robert M. Isaac Municipal Court Building, 224 E. Kiowa Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
The Colorado Springs Municipal Court handles cases involving violations of city ordinances within the city limits. These are typically less severe offenses. such as:
- Traffic violations (e.g., speeding, running red lights)
- Petty theft and shoplifting
- Disorderly conduct
- Public intoxication
- Animal control violations
- Noise complaints
- Zoning infractions
Municipal courts are established under Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-10-101 et seq. and are empowered to enforce city-specific laws. They are not part of the state court system but operate independently to address local matters.
Key Characteristics of Colorado Springs Municipal Court:
- Jurisdiction: Limited to city ordinance violations within city limits.
- Sentencing: Penalties may include fines, community service, probation, or jail time up to 189 days.
- Appeals: Decisions can be appealed to the state district court.
- Prosecution: Handled by the City Attorney’s Office.
If you receive a citation from a Colorado Springs Police Officer that directs you to appear at 224 E. Kiowa Street, it indicates a municipal court matter.
El Paso County Courthouse: County Court, District Court and Civil Law Matters
Location: El Paso County Judicial Building, 270 S. Tejon Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
El Paso County courthouse
The El Paso County Court is part of Colorado’s state judicial system and addresses cases involving state law violations. Its jurisdiction includes: Colorado Judicial Branch
- Misdemeanor criminal cases, e.g., third-degree assault, harassment. (County Court)
- Felony Matters (District Court)
- Traffic infractions
- Civil cases
- Small claims cases
- Probate
- Divorce/Custody
Established under Colorado Revised Statutes § 13-6-106, county courts have broader authority than municipal courts and handle more serious offenses.
Key Characteristics of El Paso County Courthouse:
- Jurisdiction: Covers state law violations within the county.
- Sentencing: Penalties can include fines, probation, community service, or jail time, depending on the offense.
- Appeals: Decisions can be appealed to the district court.
- Prosecution: Handled by the District Attorney’s Office.
If you receive a summons to 270 S. Tejon, it indicates a matter at the County Courthouse (Terry R. Harris)
Colorado Springs Municipal Court vs El Paso County Courthouse
| Parameters | Municipal Court | County Court |
| Jurisdiction | City ordinance violations | State law violations |
Location | 224 E. Kiowa Street | 270 S. Tejon Street |
| Types of Cases | Traffic, petty theft, local code issues | Criminal, civil, Domestic relations, juvenile |
| Prosecution | City Attorney’s Office | District Attorney’s Office |
| Appeals | To state district court | To state district court |
| Maximum Penalty | Up to 189 days in jail | Varies by offense; can include jail time or prison (felony only) |
Pay attention to where your ticket/summons lists your appearance. It will save you time and the panic of being late to court by checking before you go. Honestly, I’m still surprised how many people I overhear asking for help when they’re at the wrong courthouse. It’s a very common mistake, but easily avoidable. Parking in downtown Colorado Springs can be rough , so it’s best not to have to do it twice.
As Always: If you are facing legal issues in either court, it’s advisable to consult with a qualified attorney who can provide guidance specific to your situation.