new Leadership for Weld County’s Judicial System
A importent change is coming to the 19th Judicial District Court with the upcoming appointment of Annette J. Kundelius, announced by Colorado Governor Jared Polis. Effective August 1, 2025, Kundelius will assume the role previously held by the retiring Honorable Marcelo A.Kopcow, bringing a wealth of legal experiance to the bench.
From Public Defender to Magistrate: A Career of Service
Kundelius’s path to the judgeship has been marked by dedicated service within Colorado’s legal framework.Since 2019, she has served as a Magistrate within the 19th Judicial District, focusing primarily on civil cases – disputes between individuals or organizations. This experience provides a strong foundation for her transition to District Court Judge.
Prior to her role as Magistrate, Kundelius spent fifteen years with the Colorado State Public Defender’s Office, based in Greeley. She progressed through several key positions, beginning as a deputy Public Defender in 2004 and ultimately rising to the position of Supervising Deputy Public Defender, a role she held from 2013 to 2018. This extensive background in criminal defense offers a valuable perspective to the court, ensuring a thorough understanding of the legal process.
Educational Foundation and District overview
Kundelius’s academic credentials further demonstrate her commitment to the legal profession. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Oregon, earned in 1995, and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law, completed in 2004.
The 19th Judicial District,which Kundelius will now serve as a judge within,encompasses all of Weld County,a rapidly growing region of Colorado. As of 2024, weld County’s population exceeded 335,000 residents, making it one of the most populous counties in the state and placing significant demands on its judicial resources. Kundelius’s appointment is therefore timely, helping to ensure the efficient and equitable administration of justice for the county’s residents.