Meet the Incoming
2025 -2026
Bar Commissioners
Tyler Young - Incoming President Elect
Having served as a Bar Commissioner for several years, I am honored to run for President of the Utah State Bar. During my time as a commissioner, I have had the privilege of working with some of the best attorneys, judges, and legal minds in the state to make our profession stronger
One of the most interesting—and sometimes controversial—initiatives I have been involved in as a commissioner the Utah Sandbox (a.k.a. Utah Office of Legal Services Innovation). In fact, I committed to address this initiative when I first ran for the Bar Commission. Through ongoing collaboration with the Utah Supreme Court and committees of attorneys from diverse practice areas, I believe the Sandbox has improved. Our collective efforts have helped shape important changes to the Sandbox that better protect clients while still allowing us to explore ways to close the access-to-justice gap.
Moving forward, I am also gearing up to work with the Utah Legislature on proposed legislation that could shake up the practice of law in big ways. Lawyers need a seat at the table in these discussions, and I will do everything in my power to make sure we are heard loud and clear.
As a lawyer outside of Salt Lake City, I know how easy it is for attorneys in rural areas to feel disconnected from Bar functions. One of my big goals is to change that by facilitating monthly events in places like Moab, Richfield, Cedar City, Vernal, Price, Logan, and beyond. If you are an attorney in one of these areas and want to help coordinate a CLE luncheon (or just want an excuse to catch up with other lawyers over lunch), please reach out to me and let’s make it happen!
And now, a serious question: What would happen to your cases if you died? Do you have a plan? If not, you are not alone. Many lawyers do not have a plan, and that is a problem. Some states, like Michigan, have implemented succession planning programs to help attorneys prepare for the unexpected. My goal is to get a similar program in place for Utah lawyers by the end of my term in 2027.
At the end of the day, my focus is simple: strengthen our profession, protect the public, and ensure that the Bar supports attorneys in ways that matter. I am excited for the road ahead! I look forward to working with all of you to keep pushing things forward.
Matt Hansen
I appreciate the opportunity to represent the Second Division on the Utah State Bar Commission. I have had the great honor to have worked with many of you throughout my career. Currently, I am a Deputy Davis County Attorney.
I hold in high regard all of those that have volunteered their time and worked so hard to help build the Utah Bar. The Bar does have several challenges. These challenges include a membership of diverse practice areas, vast geographic separation, and generational differences. As the legal profession grows in numbers and evolves with technology, we will have additional questions to consider.
Despite these challenges, the Utah Bar also has some amazing strengths. We have exceptional judges and court staff throughout the state. Similarly, when lawyers are provided an opportunity to work in a professional and collegial atmosphere, they can be a force for good in our community and state. I am proud of what is accomplished everyday by lawyers advocating for their clients and making a difference where they work and reside. I see our upcoming challenges as a great opportunity for our Bar and lawyers generally to prosper and excel. I think the Utah Bar can be an exceptional tool for our profession going forward. I hope to be a part of that process.
Jessica S. Couser, J.D.
I was honored to be appointed to the Utah Bar Commission in January and am seeking your support to retain my seat in the 2025 election. As a dedicated family law attorney, I have spent my career providing ethical, competent, and compassionate legal representation to families in conflict. Serving on the Bar Commission allows me to advocate for the legal profession at large.
Over the past 15 years, I have navigated the challenges of building and growing a small firm focused on custody, divorce, child advocacy, adoption, and more. I have contributed to the community through leadership roles in organizations such as the Utah Adoption Council and the Children’s Service Society, as well as consistently providing pro bono services to underserved populations.
As Bar Commissioner, I will continue advocating for innovation, inclusivity, and enhanced member support. I am committed to addressing the evolving needs of attorneys, particularly in solo and small firms, by championing mentorship, mental health resources, and ethical adoption of AI technology. I believe in proactive leadership and fostering a diverse, accessible, and forward-thinking legal profession. I humbly ask for your support in this election.
