The Colorado Supreme Court has suspended Mesa County Court Judge Michael J. Grattan, effective Thursday, as a misconduct investigation proceeds. The court’s order, issued September 10, indicates that Judge Grattan has been given 21 days to provide a response as to why his paid suspension should not continue through the conclusion of his disciplinary proceedings. Chief Justice Monica M. Márquez did not participate in the decision and did not provide an explanation for her recusal.
The specifics surrounding the misconduct investigation have not been made public. This is due to confidentiality provisions that are built into the judicial disciplinary process. Anne Mangiardi, who serves as the director of the Colorado Commission on Judicial Discipline, confirmed that she could not disclose the details of her office’s Supreme Court filing, which initiated the request for Judge Grattan’s suspension.
The immediate impact on local court operations will involve adjustments to the dockets. Daniel P. Rubinstein, the Mesa County district attorney, stated that his office would need to adapt to any shifts in Judge Grattan’s caseload, as it is reassigned to other judges during the period of suspension. Judge Grattan was invited to comment on the matter through the Mesa County court clerk and executive but did not provide an immediate response.
Judge Grattan has a history in the Grand Valley, having been in private legal practice in Grand Junction until 2016. That year, he was appointed to the county court bench by then-Gov. John Hickenlooper. He has consistently received favorable recommendations from the citizen-led performance commission during his retention elections, including in both 2020 and 2024.
In their 2024 report, performance commissioners described Judge Grattan as a "dedicated, responsible, and conscientious judge." They further noted that he "pays attention to and shows concern for the people appearing in his courtroom, regardless of their status." The commission also highlighted his approach in criminal cases, stating that he has a stated goal of helping ensure that the defendant reforms and gets out of the criminal justice system. They praised his organization and preparation, noting he "is well organized and prepares in advance for his docket. By studying and reading he strives to keep informed and up to date on the law."
Should the discipline commission initiate formal proceedings against Judge Grattan, the misconduct allegations would be adjudicated by a three-member panel. This panel would be composed of a judge, a lawyer, and a non-attorney, following the established disciplinary process for judicial officers in Colorado.
