Colorado Criminal Defense Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Petrash Law

Are you a fervent advocate for criminal law, eager to effect change in the justice system? The 2025 Colorado Criminal Defense Scholarship, presented by Petrash Law, offers you an opportunity to receive $1000 towards your academic pursuits! This scholarship aims to aid students who demonstrate a deep commitment to justice and a desire to positively influence their communities. Applicants are urged to explore recent legislative amendments, notable court verdicts, or advancements in forensic science, and discuss their implications on defense tactics. The student who exhibits exceptional dedication and potential for impact will be selected to receive this scholarship, aiding them in their educational journey. The application deadline is December 31st, 2025.

Who Can Apply?

• The scholarship is accessible to current high school seniors, vocational students, college students, or graduate students who are legal U.S. residents living in any of the 50 states or the District of Columbia. To be eligible, applicants must be enrolled in a vocational program or a two-to-four-year post-secondary institution.
• Employees of Petrash Law, their immediate family members (including parents, children, siblings, and spouses), and individuals residing in the same household (whether related or not) are not eligible to apply.
• Applicants must possess a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher and maintain good academic standing.

What Are The Application Requirements?

• The applicant must complete the form below with all required information
• The applicant must submit an essay of 750 – 1,000 words responding to the prompt: Examine the evolving trends in criminal defense law in Colorado, such as legislative alterations, pivotal court rulings, or advancements in forensic science. Discuss how these developments influence defense strategies and promote justice.
  • Please be aware that all essays will be scrutinized for AI writing. If AI writing is detected in the essay, the application will be rejected.
• The applicant must submit a professional resumé detailing their professional and academic experience.
• The applicant must provide a transcript from their current school. First-year college students, graduate students, or individuals who have recently transferred schools may submit an unofficial transcript from their current school and the most recent official transcript from their previous school. High school students can provide proof of acceptance to their college or university.
• Preference will be given to students either from or attending school in the state.

The recipient of the 2025 Colorado Criminal Defense Scholarship will be selected in the month following the scholarship deadline.