Environmental and water resources partner Susan Ryan was appointed to serve as a district court judge in the 9th Judicial District Court by Colorado Governor Jared Polis. The 9th Judicial District Court includes Garfield County, Pitkin County, and Rio Blanco County. Susan's appointment fills the position created by the retirement of the Honorable John F. Neiley and is effective October 8, 2025.
As a former water court referee with responsibility for resolving disputes in the Colorado River Basin, Susan has a deep understanding of the legal and technical challenges affecting water issues across Colorado, particularly on the Front Range and Western Slope. She has effectively protected her clients' interests in state and federal courts and administrative proceedings to help advance their projects. She also represented clients in a variety of civil litigation matters across the state.
In addition to building a successful practice, Susan has embodied the firm's commitment to the community. She has dedicated her time as the Holland & Hart Foundation Aspen Committee Chair, served on the Board of Directors of the Office of the Child Representative and Community Health Services, and participated on various Colorado Supreme Court committees, including the Water Court Committee and the Judicial Conference Planning Committee. She also served on the University of Denver Sturm College of Law Water Law Review Advisory Board and previously served as an Adjunct Professor of Law for Water Court Practice.
For more details, please see the Office of the Governor’s press release.