Preview · data is being verified · analytical ratings are labeled opinions
Judges on your ballot · Nov 3, 2026
Every Taylorsville ballot (and every Salt Lake County ballot) asks whether to keep 15 judges. JPEC found that all 15 of 15 meet or exceed minimum performance standards. Each card shows JPEC's official evaluation, not ours: this guide does not rate judges.
About the badge.JPECMeets or exceeds standards is the Judicial Performance Evaluation Commission's official determination under Utah Code 78A-12-203, which is the evaluation the ballot points voters to (“Visit judges.utah.gov to learn about the Judicial Performance Evaluation Commission's recommendations”). JPEC can also find that a judge does not meet standards, or make no determination. Survey scores, respondent percentages and commission votes are JPEC's figures as published.
How judicial retention works in Utah
1
Judges are appointed, not elected
The governor appoints state judges from a short list made by a nominating commission, and the Utah Senate confirms them. Cities and counties appoint justice court judges the same way, through a local nominating commission and the local council.
2
Voters decide whether they stay
Three or more years after appointment, and then every term, each judge is on the ballot by name with one question: “Shall [judge] be retained?” There is no opponent. You vote Yes or No.
3
More yes than no keeps the judge
If a judge gets more Yes votes than No votes, the judge serves another full term: 10 years for the Supreme Court, 6 years for every other court. Otherwise the seat becomes vacant in January and a new judge is appointed.
4
JPEC evaluates every judge first
The Judicial Performance Evaluation Commission (JPEC), an independent state commission, surveys attorneys and court staff who work with the judge, sends volunteer observers to watch court, checks discipline, education and time standards, and takes public comment. It then votes on whether each judge meets or exceeds minimum performance standards. That determination is the official evaluation the ballot points you to.
CourtUtah Supreme CourtAppointedJune 2022Appointed byGov. Spencer J. CoxTerm if retained10 yearsJPEC survey score19.3 of 20Respondents favoring retention96%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote12-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall JILL M. POHLMAN be retained in the office of Justice of the Supreme Court of Utah?” · On every Salt Lake County ballot, including Taylorsville.
96% of survey respondents recommend Justice Pohlman for retention.
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
Legal ability
4.8
Integrity & temperament
4.8
Administrative skills
4.9
Procedural fairness
4.9
Compared with peers (JPEC)
Consistent with peers: Legal Ability, Integrity & Judicial Temperament, Administrative Skills, and Procedural Fairness
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Respondents find Justice Pohlman to be kind, polite, and approachable, and they praise her diligent work habits, attentiveness, and her thoughtful and intellectually curious manner.
One respondent said that the judge “thinks about issues deeply and puts 100% into everything.”
Another added that she “exemplifies the mission of the judiciary.”
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Associate Chief Justice Jill M. Pohlman was appointed to the Utah Supreme Court in June 2022 by Governor Spencer J. Cox. At the time, she was serving as Associate Presiding Judge on the Utah Court of Appeals. Judge Pohlman graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Utah in 1993 and received her Juris Doctorate from the S.J. Quinney College of Law at the University of Utah in 1996, where she served on the Utah Law Review and graduated Order of the Coif. After law school, she clerked for the Honorable David K. Winder of the United States District Court for the District of Utah. Prior to her appointment to the bench, Justice Pohlman was a partner at the law firm of Stoel Rives LLP in Salt Lake City. She practiced there for 19 years during which she maintained a complex civil litigation practice, including administrative, trial, and appellate work. Justice Pohlman currently chairs the Judicial Council's Office of Fairness and Accountability Committee and has previously served on several committees; including the Judicial Council's Committee on Judicial Outreach, the Utah Supreme Court's Advisory Committee on the Rules of Appellate Procedure, and the Utah Supreme Court's Ethics and Discipline Committee.
CourtUtah Court of AppealsAppointedJune 2010Appointed byGov. Gary R. HerbertTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score18.8 of 20Respondents favoring retention94%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote12-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall MICHELE M. CHRISTIANSEN FORSTER be retained in the office of Judge of the Court of Appeals of Utah?” · On every Salt Lake County ballot, including Taylorsville.
94% of survey respondents recommend Judge Christiansen Forster for retention.
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Respondents say this judge is well prepared and thoughtful, particularly during oral arguments.
They also commend her respectful interactions, describing her as kind and approachable.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge Michele M. Christiansen Forster was appointed to the Utah Court of Appeals in June 2010 by Gov. Gary Herbert. Prior to her appointment, Judge Christiansen Forster had been serving as a Third District Court Judge since May 2007. Judge Christiansen Forster received her law degree from the University of Utah College of Law in 1995. She then served as a judicial law clerk for one year with the Honorable Tena Campbell, United States District Court Judge for the District of Utah, following which she joined the Salt Lake law firm of Parsons Behle & Latimer. In March 1998, Judge Christiansen Forster joined the United States Attorney's Office, District of Utah, as an Assistant United States Attorney. In January 2005, she was appointed executive director of the Utah Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice and in July of 2006, Judge Christiansen Forster became general counsel to Gov. Jon M. Huntsman, Jr. During her tenure in the Governor's Office, Judge Christiansen Forster co-chaired the Utah Methamphetamine Joint Task Force and chaired the Utah Sexual Violence Council. She served as a member of the Guardian Ad Litem Oversight Panel, the Utah Sentencing Commission Executive Committee, the Utah Substance Abuse and Anti-Violence Coordinating Council, the Governor's Violence Against Women and Families Cabinet Council, the Initiative on Utah Children in Foster Care, and the Access to Justice Council. Judge Christiansen Forster is an adjunct professor at the University of Utah S. J. Quinney College of Law, and currently serves as Co-chair of the Utah State Bar's Pro Bono Commission and on the Salt Lake County Bar Association Executive Committee. The judge is the past-president of the David K. Watkiss-Sutherland II Inn of Court, and previously served on the Executive Board of Women Lawyers of Utah, the Judicial Council's Ethics Advisory Opinion Committee, and as the chair of the Judicial Council's Commissioner Conduct Committee.
CourtUtah Court of AppealsAppointedJune 2017Appointed byGov. Gary R. HerbertTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score18.8 of 20Respondents favoring retention91%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote12-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall RYAN M. HARRIS be retained in the office of Judge of the Court of Appeals of Utah?” · On every Salt Lake County ballot, including Taylorsville.
91% of survey respondents recommend Judge Harris for retention.
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Respondents say that Judge Harris is intelligent, and they value his preparedness and organization, especially in his timely opinions.
They also appreciate his thoughtful questions during oral arguments.
A few say the judge’s demeanor reveals irritation, particularly with oral arguments he disagrees with.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge Ryan M. Harris was appointed to the Utah Court of Appeals in June 2017 by Governor Gary R. Herbert. Prior to his appointment, Judge Harris served as a trial judge in the Third District Court for nearly six years, where he served as the Associate Presiding Judge. While a trial judge, Judge Harris also served on various committees, including the Advisory Committee on Model Civil Jury Instructions and the Small Claims Jury Committee. Judge Harris also twice received the Judicial Excellence Award from the Litigation Section of the Utah State Bar. Judge Harris graduated magna cum laude and with University honors from Brigham Young University in 1995, and graduated with distinction from Stanford Law School in 1998. Upon graduating from law school, Judge Harris served as a judicial clerk to the Honorable Stephen H. Anderson of the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. Following his clerkship, Judge Harris practiced law in Salt Lake City at the firm of Jones, Waldo, Holbrook & McDonough, where in addition to maintaining a civil trial practice he also served on the firm's board of directors and executive committee. Judge Harris also worked as an adjunct professor of law at the University of Utah's S.J. Quinney College of Law. Prior to his appointment to the Third District Court, Judge Harris served as a small claims judge for eight years. Judge Harris is a past chairperson of the Litigation Section of the Utah State Bar.
CourtUtah Court of AppealsAppointedOctober 2022Appointed byGov. Spencer J. CoxTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score18.5 of 20Respondents favoring retention89%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote12-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall JOHN DAVID LUTHY be retained in the office of Judge of the Court of Appeals of Utah?” · On every Salt Lake County ballot, including Taylorsville.
89% of survey respondents recommend Judge Luthy for retention
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Respondents value Judge Luthy’s respectful judicial demeanor, particularly his kindness and professionalism.
They admire the judge’s preparedness for oral arguments and inquisitive, thorough manner.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge John D. Luthy was appointed to the Utah Court of Appeals in October 2022 by Governor Spencer J. Cox. Prior to his appointment, Judge Luthy served for three years in the Cache County Attorney’s Office, first as Chief Civil Deputy County Attorney and then as County Attorney. Judge Luthy graduated magna cum laude from Utah State University in 1996 and cum laude from the J. Reuben Clark Law School at Brigham Young University in 2000. Following law school, Judge Luthy served as a law clerk to Judge Gregory K. Orme of the Utah Court of Appeals, Justice Richard C. Howe of the Utah Supreme Court, and Judge Russell W. Bench of the Utah Court of Appeals. He then practiced law for three years at the firm Suitter Axland in Salt Lake City. In 2006, Judge Luthy joined the faculty of the University of South Carolina School of Law, where he taught Legal Analysis and Writing and Advanced Legal Writing. In 2014, Judge Luthy returned to Utah to join the firm Peck Hadfield Baxter & Moore (now Peck Baxter Watkins & Bailey) in Logan, where he worked for five years. Judge Luthy previously sat on the executive committee of the Appellate Practice Section of the Utah State Bar and served as president of the Cache County Bar Association. He taught as an adjunct instructor at the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Advocacy Center in Columbia, South Carolina, and as an adjunct professor at Utah State University.
CourtUtah Court of AppealsAppointedMay 2016Appointed byGov. Gary R. HerbertTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score19.0 of 20Respondents favoring retention98%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote12-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall DAVID NED MORTENSEN be retained in the office of Judge of the Court of Appeals of Utah?” · On every Salt Lake County ballot, including Taylorsville.
98% of survey respondents recommend Judge Mortensen for retention.
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
Some describe him as fair and others compliment his legal skills, particularly his coherent and timely opinions.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge David N. Mortensen was appointed to the Utah Court of Appeals in May 2016 by Gov. Gary R. Herbert. Prior to his appointment, Judge Mortensen served as a trial judge in the Fourth District Court for almost ten years where he served multiple terms as the presiding judge and associate presiding judge. Judge Mortensen graduated from the J. Reuben Clark Law School at Brigham Young University in 1993. Judge Mortensen was in law practice as a trial attorney before becoming a judge. He is a member of the A. Sherman Christensen Inn of Court. He has taught as an adjunct professor at The J. Reuben Clark Law School. Judge Mortensen currently is a member of the Utah Judicial Council. Judge Mortensen received the 2016 Distinguished Service Award from the Government and Politics Legal Society of the J. Reuben Clark Law School. Judge Mortensen served two terms on the Judicial Conduct Commission and is a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation.
CourtUtah Court of AppealsAppointedJanuary 2023Appointed byGov. Spencer J. CoxTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score18.2 of 20Respondents favoring retention88%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote12-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall AMY JO OLIVER be retained in the office of Judge of the Court of Appeals of Utah?” · On every Salt Lake County ballot, including Taylorsville.
88% of survey respondents recommend Judge Oliver for retention
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Respondents commend Judge Oliver’s work ethic and preparedness during oral arguments.
They value her professionalism, commonsense, and courteous demeanor.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge Amy J. Oliver was appointed to the Utah Court of Appeals in January 2023 by Governor Spencer J. Cox. At the time of her appointment, she was a district court judge in the Third Judicial District, which serves Salt Lake, Summit, and Tooele counties. Judge Oliver received a bachelor’s degree, summa cum laude, from the University of Utah in 1995. After graduation, she worked for the Utah Supreme Court Law Library. Judge Oliver graduated cum laude with a juris doctorate degree from Harvard Law School in 2000. She spent the first part of her legal career in law practice with law firms in Washington, D.C. and Phoenix, Arizona. She then entered government service, first with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah and then with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, where she was the Assistant Director of the Salt Lake Regional Office. Judge Oliver worked as an Adjunct Professor at the George Washington University Law School teaching legal research and writing. She currently serves on the Utah Supreme Court Advisory Committee on the Rules of Professional Conduct.
CourtUtah Court of AppealsAppointedJanuary 1987Appointed byGov. Norman H. BangerterTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score19.4 of 20Respondents favoring retention97%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote12-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall GREGORY KEITH ORME be retained in the office of Judge of the Court of Appeals of Utah?” · On every Salt Lake County ballot, including Taylorsville.
97% of survey respondents recommend Judge Orme for retention.
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
Legal ability
4.8
Integrity & temperament
4.8
Administrative skills
4.8
Procedural fairness
4.9
Compared with peers (JPEC)
Above peers: Legal Ability, Procedural Fairness
Consistent with peers: Integrity & Judicial Temperament, Administrative Skills
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Respondents commend Judge Orme’s institutional knowledge and find him to be “exceptionally capable.”
They appreciate his equal treatment and judicial demeanor, particularly his respectful and professional conduct.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge Gregory K. Orme is the longest tenured member of the Utah Court of Appeals. He graduated from the University of Utah, magna cum laude, in 1975. Three years later he received his law degree, with high honors, from George Washington University, in Washington D.C. Judge Orme served as a law clerk to Judge Monroe G. McKay, United States Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. He was a partner in the law firm of VanCott, Bagley, Cornwall & McCarthy at the time of his appointment to the Court of Appeals. Judge Orme has served two prior terms as the court's presiding judge, four terms on the Utah Judicial Council, six years as chair of the Ethics Advisory Committee, ten years on the Judicial Performance Evaluation Committee, six years as chair of the Commissioner Conduct Committee, and twelve years on the Utah Sentencing Commission. Judge Orme currently serves on the Utah Supreme Court's Advisory Committee on the Rules of Appellate Procedure, and he is the judicial advisor to the Utah Bar Journal. Judge Orme received the Utah State Bar's annual awards for Young Lawyer of the Year (1986) and Judge of the Year (2007). He is a four-time recipient of the Judicial Excellence Award from the Utah State Bar's Litigation Section. He is a Life Fellow of the American Bar Foundation.
CourtThird District CourtAppointedJuly 2016Appointed byGov. Gary R. HerbertTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score18.3 of 20Respondents favoring retention91%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote12-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall MATTHEW DAVID BATES be retained in the office of Judge of the District Court of the Third Judicial District?” · On every Salt Lake County ballot, including Taylorsville.
91% of survey respondents recommend Judge Bates for retention
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Both respondents and courtroom observers find Judge Bates to be informative and willing to provide information and ensure understanding of those in court.
Both groups value his respectful approach on the bench, describing him as friendly and approachable.
Observers appreciate the judge’s consideration of defendants’ situations and circumstances.
All four observers report confidence that they would be treated fairly if they were to appear in Judge Bates’ court.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Matthew Bates was appointed to the Utah Third District Court by Governor Gary R. Herbert in July 2016. He serves Salt Lake, Summit, and Tooele counties. Prior to his appointment, Judge Bates served as the Chief Prosecutor in the Summit County Attorney`s Office. He previously worked for the Salt Lake County District Attorney`s Office and in the Litigation and Criminal Appeals Divisions of the Utah Attorney General`s Office. Judge Bates graduated cum laude with a juris doctorate from the J. Reuben Clark Law School at Brigham Young University in 2003.
CourtThird District CourtAppointedDecember 2022Appointed byGov. Spencer J. CoxTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score18.3 of 20Respondents favoring retention91%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote12-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall CORAL SANCHEZ be retained in the office of Judge of the District Court of the Third Judicial District?” · On every Salt Lake County ballot, including Taylorsville.
91% of survey respondents recommend Judge Sanchez for retention
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Both respondents and courtroom observers applaud the judge’s kind, patient, and respectful demeanor with court participants.
Both groups describe her as a clear communicator who explains information and ensures that participants understand.
Observers appreciate the judge’s unhurried, thorough approach working through cases.
All four observers report confidence that they would be treated fairly if they were to appear in Judge Sanchez’s court.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge Coral Sanchez was appointed to the Third District Court in December 2022 by Governor Spencer Cox. She serves Salt Lake, Summit, and Tooele counties. Prior to her appointment, Judge Sanchez served as the Division Chief in the Davis County Attorney's Office, where she oversaw the Special Victims Unit and the Children's Justice Center. She previously worked for the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office where she served as the Unit Chief for the Special Victims Unit and the Juvenile Unit. As a prosecutor, she specialized in cases involving child physical and sexual abuse, child homicide, adult sexual assault, domestic violence, and gang homicide. Judge Sanchez also practiced law at a small civil litigation firm. In 2019, Judge Sanchez was named State Prosecutor of the Year by the Utah Crime Victims Council. She received her bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California and her law degree from the S.J. Quinney College of Law at the University of Utah.
CourtThird District CourtAppointed2011Appointed byGov. Gary R. HerbertTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score18.5 of 20Respondents favoring retention94%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote11-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall TODD SHAUGHNESSY be retained in the office of Judge of the District Court of the Third Judicial District?” · On every Salt Lake County ballot, including Taylorsville.
94% of survey respondents recommend Judge Shaughnessy for retention
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
Consistent with peers: Legal Ability, Procedural Fairness
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Respondents describe Judge Shaughnessy as competent, experienced, and attentive to those in court.
They, along with courtroom observers, value his preparedness, respectful treatment of those in court, and his professional temperament.
Observers further appreciate the judge’s deliberate, careful approach to the legal process.
All four observers report confidence that they would be treated fairly if they were to appear in Judge Shaughnessy’s court.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge Todd Shaughnessy was appointed to the Third District Court in 2011 by Governor Gary Herbert. Judge Shaughnessy graduated from the University of Utah College of Law, clerked for the Utah Supreme Court, and was a partner at Snell & Wilmer in Salt Lake City, prior to his appointment. Judge Shaughnessy is a member of the Utah Judicial Council, the governing body for Utahs judiciary, and a member of the Utah Judicial Conduct Commission. Judge Shaughnessy received the Judicial Excellence Award from the Utah State Bars Litigation Section in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019. He is a fellow in the American Bar Foundation, a member of the American and Utah State Bar associations, past president of the Salt Lake County Bar Association, and a Master of the Bench in the David K. Watkiss Sutherland Inn of Court.
CourtThird District CourtAppointedJune 2023Appointed byGov. Spencer J. CoxTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score18.2 of 20Respondents favoring retention92%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote13-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall CHARLES A. STORMONT be retained in the office of Judge of the District Court of the Third Judicial District?” · On every Salt Lake County ballot, including Taylorsville.
92% of survey respondents recommend Judge Stormont for retention
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Respondents and courtroom observers appreciate Judge Stormont’s kind, patient temperament and respectful interactions with those in court.
Both groups say that he is fair and thoughtful, and they commend his impartial, equal treatment of court participants.
Several respondents say that the judge needs to be more efficient at managing the court calendar.
A few suggest that he could benefit from additional training in criminal law.
Observers appreciate his willingness to allow participants to be heard.
All four observers report confidence that they would be treated fairly if they were to appear in Judge Stormont’s court.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge Charles A. Stormont was appointed to the Third District Court in June 2023 by Governor Spencer J. Cox, serving Salt Lake, Summit, and Tooele counties. He earned his undergraduate degree in mathematics and political science from Davidson College in 1998 and his law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law in 2001. Prior to his appointment, Judge Stormont served as the Director of Right of Way at the Utah Department of Transportation and worked extensively as a civil litigator. Throughout his career, Judge Stormont has been dedicated to serving his community. Deeply committed to ensuring equal access to the legal system, he currently serves on the Utah State Bar's Access to Justice Commission and several Court committees focused on community engagement and access to justice issues. Additionally, Judge Stormont volunteers his time serving on the boards of several local non-profit organizations.
CourtThird District Juvenile CourtAppointedJuly 2017Appointed byGov. Gary R. HerbertTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score19.4 of 20Respondents favoring retention100%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote12-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall STEVEN K. BECK be retained in the office of Judge of the Juvenile Court of the Third Juvenile Court District?” · On every Salt Lake County ballot, including Taylorsville.
100% of survey respondents recommend Judge Beck for retention.
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Respondents find Judge Beck to be a particularly capable judge and applaud his dedication to, and knowledge of, the law.
One respondent said that he “seems to do everything exceedingly well.”
Respondents say the judge is prepared and efficient as well as attentive and thorough before making decisions. They, along with courtroom observers, appreciate his neutrality, steady temperament, and compassion for those in court.
All four observers report confidence that they would be treated fairly if they were to appear in Judge Beck’s court.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge Steven K. Beck was appointed to the Third District Juvenile Court in July 2017 by Governor Gary R. Herbert. He serves Salt Lake, Summit, and Tooele counties. Judge Beck earned a B.S. degree in Political Science and degrees of Master of Public Administration and Juris Doctor from the University of Utah where he received the S. J. Quinney College of Law Outstanding Achievement Award in Juvenile Justice. From 2005 until 2015, he prosecuted delinquency cases in juvenile court for the Salt Lake County District Attorney's Office and from 2015 until his appointment to the bench, Judge Beck defended youth as a member of Utah Juvenile Defender Attorneys. Judge Beck is a former chair of the Utah Board of Juvenile Court Judges and is vice chair of the Juvenile Justice Oversight Committee.
CourtThird District Juvenile CourtAppointedJuly 2017Appointed byGov. Gary R. HerbertTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score18.9 of 20Respondents favoring retention100%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote11-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall SUSAN HEATHER EISENMAN be retained in the office of Judge of the Juvenile Court of the Third Juvenile Court District?” · On every Salt Lake County ballot, including Taylorsville.
100% of survey respondents recommend Judge Eisenman for retention.
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Respondents appreciate the judge’s judicial excellence, citing her legal expertise, dedication, and thoroughness.
Both respondents and observers admire her procedural fairness, particularly her sensitive, caring interactions with youth and willingness to hear participants out.
Some respondents say the judge can be impatient.
All four observers report confidence that they would be treated fairly if they were to appear in Judge Eisenman’s court.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Presiding Judge Susan H. Eisenman was appointed to the Third District Juvenile Court in July 2017 by Governor Gary R. Herbert. She serves Salt Lake, Summit, and Tooele Counties. Judge Eisenman graduated from the University of California-Berkeley with a B.A. in English in 1990, and received a law degree from the University of Virginia in 1994. She worked as a parental defender, guardian ad litem, and as an assistant attorney general for the child protection division of the Utah Attorney General's office. In 2013, she was promoted to Division Director of the State Agency Counsel Division. Judge Eisenman has served as Presiding Judge since 2023, and as a member of the Judicial Council since 2024.
CourtThird District Juvenile CourtAppointedOctober 2022Appointed byGov. Spencer J. CoxTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score18.1 of 20Respondents favoring retention95%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote12-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall AARON WILLIAM FLATER be retained in the office of Judge of the Juvenile Court of the Third Juvenile Court District?” · On every Salt Lake County ballot, including Taylorsville.
95% of survey respondents recommend Judge Flater for retention
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Respondents admire Judge Flater’s care for juveniles and their families and commitment to their success.
Both respondents and courtroom observers praise the judge’s welcoming, patient manner and kind, dignified treatment of court participants.
Survey results indicate that he should continue to improve his legal skills and knowledge, and several respondents suggest that the judge should work on being more decisive and efficient in the courtroom.
Observers commend his consistent, impartial behavior.
All four observers report confidence that they would be treated fairly if they were to appear in Judge Flater’s court.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge Aaron W. Flater was appointed to the Third District Juvenile Court in October 2022 by Governor Spencer Cox. He serves Salt Lake, Summit, and Tooele counties. Judge Flater graduated from Ricks College with an A.S. degree in Political Science. He then graduated from Utah State University with a B.S. degree in Sociology and a minor in Criminal Justice. He graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law where he received an award for Trial Practice. Judge Flater worked as an associate at Henriksen and Henriksen and later transitioned to prosecution. He prosecuted cases at all levels of government including work as a Senior Assistant Salt Lake City Prosecutor, a Deputy Salt Lake County District Attorney, and an Assistant United States Attorney.
Alta Municipal Justice Court (on every county ballot) 1
A local court for misdemeanors, traffic and parking cases, small claims and city or county ordinance violations. Alta is a town, so state law puts its justice-court judge on the countywide ballot (Utah Code 78A-7-203).
CourtAlta Municipal Justice CourtAppointed2010Appointed byLocal appointmentTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score19.3 of 20Respondents favoring retention97%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote12-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall PAUL CURTIS FARR be retained in the office of Judge of the Alta Municipal Justice Court?” · On every Salt Lake County ballot, including Taylorsville.
97% of survey respondents recommend Judge Farr for retention.
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Respondents commend Judge Farr’s respectful demeanor, describing him as kind, patient, and steady, while observers describe him as calm and professional.
Both groups say that he is particularly neutral and ensures that participants in court are heard.
One respondent said that he was “the perfect definition of how all Judge's should run their court.”
Observers further appreciate the judge’s consideration and understanding of participants’ circumstances.
All four observers report confidence that they would be treated fairly if they were to appear in Judge Farr’s court.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge Paul Farr was first appointed as a judge in 2010. He currently serves in Sandy and Alta. Prior to his appointment Judge Farr was a partner in a Salt Lake City law firm with a civil trial practice. Judge Farr earned a J.D. from Brigham Young University, a B.S. in Criminal Justice from Weber State University and an A.S. in History from Dixie State University. He has been a member of the Utah State Bar since 2000. Judge Farr has served as a member of the Justice Court Board of Judges, the Utah Judicial Council and on many committees with the courts and the Utah Bar.
Justice court judges are appointed by the city or county executive with the local council's consent (Utah Code 78A-7-202), not by the governor.
City justice courts (only on ballots in that city) 5
A local court for misdemeanors, traffic and parking cases, small claims and city or county ordinance violations. A judge of a larger city's justice court is on the ballot only for that city's voters (Utah Code 20A-12-201(7)). These are not on Taylorsville ballots. Taylorsville Justice Court: Judge Chris Bown serves it, but no Taylorsville justice-court judge is on the 2026 ballot; he appears below only for Riverton voters.
CourtRiverton Municipal Justice CourtAppointedFebruary 2023 (Riverton); Taylorsville Justice Court since May 2021Appointed byLocal appointmentTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score18.7 of 20Respondents favoring retention95%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote13-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall CHRISTOPHER GREGORY BOWN be retained in the office of Judge of the Riverton Municipal Justice Court?” · Only on ballots in Riverton (not on Taylorsville ballots).
95% of survey respondents recommend Judge Bown for retention
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Respondents describe the judge as “fair and effective” and as one who promotes public trust and confidence.
Respondents and courtroom observers applaud his kind and courteous demeanor.
Observers value the judge’s sensitivity to the situations and circumstances of court participants.
All observers report confidence that they would be treated fairly if they were to appear in Judge Bown’s court.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge Christopher G. Bown was appointed to the Taylorsville Justice Court in May 2021, and the Riverton Justice Court in February 2023. Judge Bown received a degree in political science from Brigham Young University in 1996. Before attending law school, he was a court clerk for the Third District Court. He graduated from the University of Utah Law School in 2001. After receiving his Juris Doctor, Judge Bown, upon graduating, was employed as a Deputy District Attorney at the Salt Lake County District Attorney's Office until 2013. While there, he handled many types of cases, including a number of high-profile cases, and considered his time as the assigned prosecutor in the Third District Court one of the highlights of his career. In 2013, Judge Bown became a criminal defense attorney and eventually joined the firm of Stowell, Crayk and Bown, PLLC as a partner until his appointment to the bench.
Justice court judges are appointed by the city or county executive with the local council's consent (Utah Code 78A-7-202), not by the governor.
CourtHolladay Municipal Justice CourtAppointed2011Appointed byLocal appointmentTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score18.6 of 20Respondents favoring retention98%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote12-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall AUGUSTUS GRIFFITH CHIN be retained in the office of Judge of the Holladay Municipal Justice Court?” · Only on ballots in Holladay (not on Taylorsville ballots).
98% of survey respondents recommend Judge Chin for retention.
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Respondents praise Judge Chin as particularly skilled, highlighting his legal acumen and diligent, orderly manner. One called him “the epitome of fairness.”
Both respondents and courtroom observers applaud his respectful, cordial demeanor, finding him to be caring but also firm, and both find that he communicates clearly.
All four observers report confidence that they would be treated fairly if they were to appear in Judge Chin’s court.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge Augustus G. Chin was appointed to the Holladay Justice Court in 2011. The Holladay Justice Court serves the cities of Holladay, Cottonwood Heights, Millcreek, and Brighton Township. Judge Chin received his Juris Doctorate from the University of Utah College of Law. He also has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and a minor in Spanish from the University of Utah. Judge Chin was a law clerk-bailiff and law clerk for 3rd District Judge Tyrone E. Medley from 1995-1997. He was a prosecutor for the Salt Lake City Prosecutor’s Office and the Summit County Attorney’s Office from 1998-2008. Prior to taking the bench in 2011, he worked as a criminal defense attorney for Wasatch Advocates and Rasmussen and Miner. Service history: National Judicial College, Part-time (volunteer) Faculty 2017-present, Judicial Council 2017-2023, Board of Justice Court Judges 2016-2023, Utah State Bar President 2006–2007, Utah State Bar Commissioner 1999–2008, Utah Minority Bar Association President 1998-1999, Law-Related Education 1998-2025, Board Member 2009-2025, Chair 2011–2013 & 2023-2024. Utah Bar Foundation 2008-2011, Utah Supreme Court Advisory Committee on Professionalism and Civility 2002-2015.
Justice court judges are appointed by the city or county executive with the local council's consent (Utah Code 78A-7-202), not by the governor.
Draper Municipal Justice Court & Herriman Municipal Justice Court
JPECMeets or exceeds standards
CourtDraper Municipal Justice Court & Herriman Municipal Justice CourtAppointed2023Appointed byLocal appointmentTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score19.6 of 20Respondents favoring retention100%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote12-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall LISA A. GARNER be retained in the office of Judge of the Draper Municipal Justice Court?” · Only on ballots in Draper and Herriman (not on Taylorsville ballots).
100% of survey respondents recommend Judge Garner for retention.
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Both respondents and courtroom observers admire Judge Garner’s competencies, including clear communication, her extensive understanding of the law, and her respectful, patient demeanor.
Both describe her as attentive, willing to listen, and efficient in operating the calendar.
One respondent said that she is “well prepared,” with “excellent discernment.”
All four observers report confidence that they would be treated fairly if they were to appear in Judge Garner’s court.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge Lisa A. Garner was appointed to the Draper City and Herriman City Justice Courts in 2023. Judge Garner earned her bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Utah in 1993 and her law degree from the J. Reuben Clark Law School in 1996. Prior to her appointment, Judge Garner served as the Midvale City Attorney and Midvale City Prosecutor for 7 years. Previously, Judge Garner worked with Salt Lake Legal Defenders and later had her own criminal defense practice. During Judge Garner's criminal defense practice, she worked on felony and misdemeanor cases. In addition, she has worked in the title insurance industry, practicing in the areas of real estate and contract law.
Justice court judges are appointed by the city or county executive with the local council's consent (Utah Code 78A-7-202), not by the governor.
CourtSalt Lake City Municipal Justice CourtAppointed2022Appointed byMayor Erin MendenhallTerm if retained6 yearsJPEC survey score17.0 of 20Respondents favoring retention83%Minimum standards8 of 8 passedJPEC vote12-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall JOJO C. LIU be retained in the office of Judge of the Salt Lake City Municipal Justice Court?” · Only on ballots in Salt Lake City (not on Taylorsville ballots).
83% of survey respondents recommend Judge Liu for retention
JPEC survey scores (1–5 scale; JPEC reports list 3.6 as the minimum standard)
What survey respondents and observers said (JPEC summary)
Both respondents and courtroom observers admire Judge Liu’s patient and respectful demeanor, describing her as professional and caring.
Both groups underscore her preparedness in court.
Both appreciate her willingness to let participants express themselves and be heard.
Survey results and some comments indicate that the judge should strengthen her legal skills, particularly in following, or explaining departures from, legal precedent.
All four observers report confidence that they would be treated fairly if they were to appear in Judge Liu’s court.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge Jojo Liu was appointed to the Salt Lake City Justice Court by Mayor Erin Mendenhall in 2022. Prior to her appointment, Judge Liu served as Director of Salt Lake County’s Office of Criminal Justice Initiatives and Director of the Salt Lake County Criminal Justice Advisory Council. Before joining Salt Lake County, she served as the Assistant Director of the Utah Indigent Defense Commission. From 2007 to 2016, Judge Liu was a Clinical Professor of Law and Co-Director of the Juvenile Justice Clinic at Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles. From 2002 to 2007, she practiced law at Morrison and Foerster, where she maintained a civil litigation practice and later specialized in white-collar defense, with a focus on matters involving the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. Judge Liu began her legal career as a Skadden Fellow at Legal Services for Children in New York City. Judge Liu graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University in 1996 and earned her Juris Doctor from Columbia Law School in 2000, where she was a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar.
Justice court judges are appointed by the city or county executive with the local council's consent (Utah Code 78A-7-202), not by the governor.
CourtMidvale City Justice CourtAppointedJanuary 2017Appointed byLocal appointmentTerm if retained6 yearsMinimum standards5 of 5 passedJPEC vote12-0
Details: scores, feedback, standards, sources
Ballot question: “Shall GEORGE FREDERICK VO-DUC be retained in the office of Judge of the Midvale City Justice Court?” · Only on ballots in Midvale (not on Taylorsville ballots).
JPEC does not conduct surveys for part-time judges because the sample size is too small.
Other standards (certified by the courts / Judicial Conduct Commission)
Judicial Education: Pass
Judicial Time Standard: Pass
Judicial Discipline: Pass
Fitness for Office: Pass
Biography (from JPEC)
Judge George F. Vo-Duc was appointed to the Midvale City Justice Court in January 2017. Judge Vo-Duc is a veteran of the United States Navy and a graduate of the University of Utah, where he received a Bachelor of Philosophy in 1996 and a Juris Doctor in 2001. Prior to appointment, Judge Vo-Duc worked as a Deputy District Attorney for Salt Lake County for 15 years, where he prosecuted narcotics, gang, special victim, and violent felony cases.
Justice court judges are appointed by the city or county executive with the local council's consent (Utah Code 78A-7-202), not by the governor.