Judge Barajas is from Colorado Springs, Colorado. He earned his undergraduate degree from Colorado State University and his Law degree from the University of Denver. Judge Barajas began his legal career at the Legal Aid Society of Metro Denver as the Reginald Heber Smith Community Lawyer Fellow specializing in Poverty Law. He remained with Legal Aid for five years until he joined the international law firm, Holland and Hart, in their Denver office. Judge Barajas remained with Holland and Hart for 3 years and subsequently joined CIGNA Corporation’s field litigation practice, Mann and Shappell. After a year with CIGNA, he formed his own practice. His successful career earned Judge Barajas an appointment as a Magistrate for the City and County of Denver. During his tenure, Judge Barajas handled many cases involving dependency and neglect relating to children in the foster care system in Colorado. Judge Barajas was later appointed District Court Magistrate for the 17th Judicial District in Adams County Colorado. He was named to the Denver County Court in January 2003, presiding over their criminal division. After a long career working with families and children, he retired and became involved with community initiatives. When not working in the community, he enjoys gardening and golf. Judge Barajas has a black belt in Judo and is passionate about overall fitness and nature. He lives in Denver with his wife, Jeri. Judge Barajas is an invaluable member of LID Foundation Board of Directors where he brings a voice of experience on the inner-workings of the public system, the kids it supports, and the relationship between the foster care and judicial systems.