C.  Timeline

C.R.S. § 19-3-505(3)
J. Dir. 96-08
1.  Non-EPP Cases

In non-EPP cases, the court must hold the adjudicatory hearing within ninety days of petition service. It should be scheduled at the earliest possible time. The court should grant a continuance only if not to do so would result in manifest injustice. If a delay is necessary, the court should specify the reason and reschedule the hearing as soon as possible. 


People in the Interest of S.B., 742 P.2d 935 (Colo. App. 1987)
If the deadline is missed, dismissal is not required.
People in Interest of D.M., 186 P.3d 101 (Colo. App. 2008)
2. EPP Cases

In EPP cases, the court may grant a continuance only if it finds

  1. the child’s best interests will be served in granting a delay and 
  2. good cause. 

These findings should be stated on the record.