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Competency Court

Incompetent to Proceed

Competency Court

History and Background

The 4th Judicial District has both a Competency Docket and Competency Diversion Program.

The 4th Judicial District Competency Docket was established in December of 2022. This Court was created to address the growing number of incompetent to proceed defendants needing restoration services. The Competency Docket provides a centralized docket where the Magistrate, Attorneys, Forensic Support Team, Bridges Liaisons, and Treatment Providers work together to address restoration services, reduce delays, and provide support to those in this docket.

The 4th Judicial District Competency Diversion Program was established in October of 2025. This program integrates provisions of House Bill 24-1355. This bill establishes a structured referral process for defendants who are likely to be found incompetent to proceed in Court. This bill redirects individuals into the Bridges Wraparound Care Program with mandated court reviews and data collection. This program targets lower acuity individuals who can succeed out in the community while providing them with stability factors and treatment.

Mission and End Goal of the Competency Court

The Mission of the 4th Judicial Competency Court is to enhance public safety, reduce delays in the competency process, and support equitable outcomes for individuals who are incompetent to proceed. The program emphasizes engagement in care, treatment adherence, and meaningful functional improvement related to understanding and taking part in Court proceedings. The program aims to increase participant stability, provide supportive community connections, reduce recidivism, and promote sustained behavioral and cognitive progress that supports restoration of competency and long-term success in the community.

Program Eligibility

  • Competency Docket
    • Defendant has been found incompetent to proceed
    • Must have at least one felony charge
    • Non-VRA Class F5 or F6 cases automatically qualify
  • Competency Diversion Program
    • Defendant most likely to be found incompetent to proceed
    • Lower acuity individuals
    • Misdemeanor/Traffic Charges and Low-Level Felonies. There may be exceptions after review of individual cases

Referral Process

  • Competency Docket
    • The parties may stipulate to send the case to the Competency Docket, the charge automatically qualifies, or judicial discretion.
  • Competency Diversion Program
    • The District Attorney and Defense Counsel agree that the defendant will be likely found incompetent to proceed. The Parties must stipulate to refer the defendant to the Bridges Wraparound Care Program.