Judge Gilman was appointed to the Denver District Court bench in February 1998. Prior to her appointment to the bench, Judge Gilman practiced in the several county trial offices and in the appellate division of the Colorado State Public Defender and then was in private practice in Denver, specializing in juvenile, criminal and appellate matters. Judge Gilman graduated from the University of Illinois and received her law degree from the University of Denver College of Law in 1978. Judge Gilman presently hears criminal cases. She also served in the domestic relations division for more than one year.

Judge Gilman is active in community service. She teaches at legal seminars and chairs or participates in Bar Association and other law committees. Judge Gilman exercises regularly and enjoys spending time with her young child.