Step 1: Start the Appeal

Submitted by [user:field_first_name]
  • What do I File?
  • Where do I File?
    • File the forms into the County Court Case. Then file a copy with the County District Court. For address information visit the Colorado Court Finder.
  • When do I File?
    • Within 35 days of the Final Order.
  • What do I Pay?
  • Serve:
    • Give a copy to the District Attorney's office. 
  • Notes on Filling out the Designation of Record:
    • Write in the date of the hearing, the time that it started, and the courtroom you were in for each transcript that you will order and purchase.
  • Transcript:
    • What: A transcript is a typed document that contains the word-for-word testimony of what was said at the trial.
    • Why: An appellate court cannot consider any new facts or evidence. It must rely solely on the facts that were presented to the deciding court. Many facts come onto the record through the testimony at the hearing or trial.
    • How to Order: Submit a Transcript Request Form - JDF 4 with the County Court clerk. A transcriptionist will be in contact with you to arrange payment.
    • Cost: A transcript costs $3 a page. This works out to be about $150 for every hour you were in court. The transcriptionist will be able to give you a more precise quote for your case.
    • Deposit: Some counties require you to post a deposit on the transcript when you submit your Transcript Request Form. The transcriptionist will require a deposit to begin work on the transcript.
    • Waiver: If you are under 125% of the poverty line, the transcripts may be provided at state expense. File a Motion with the County Court requesting that the state pay for any transcripts on appeal. 

Forms for County Court Criminal Appeals

Notice of Appeal and Designation of Record - JDF 222
File into the County Court case and in the District Court.

Transcript Request Form - JDF 4
Submit to County Court clerk.

Motion to Waive the Filing Fee - JDF 205
Submit to the District Court with your first filing.

Proposed Order re Filing Fees - JDF 206
Complete just the case caption and submit with the Motion to Waive Fees.