SALT LAKE CITY (January 30, 2026) — The Utah State Board of Bar Commissioners has unanimously nominated Tom Bayles to serve as President-Elect for the 2026–2027 fiscal year. Upon election, Bayles will continue his long record of service to the Bar and the statewide legal community, with particular focus on strengthening engagement and access for Utah attorneys.“It’s critically important that attorneys in Utah continue to feel connected to the Utah State Bar and fully informed about the work being done on their behalf,” Bayles said. “Before COVID, access to CLEs remotely was extremely limited. Today, through expanded video programming and regular watch parties, we’re building stronger professional connections across the state.”

Bayles added, “A great deal of meaningful work is happening within the Bar for attorneys statewide deserve to be engaged, informed, and heard. I’m committed to continuing that progress and ensuring lawyers in every region are supported and involved.”

Bayles has practiced law in St. George since 1998 and focuses on estate planning, estate and real estate tax planning, and business succession planning at ProvenLaw, PLLC. He currently represents the Fifth Division on the Bar Commission and has previously served in numerous leadership roles, including president of the Southern Utah Bar Association and co-chair of the Utah State Bar Spring Convention.

Throughout his career, Bayles has been a strong advocate for improving access, communication, and professional development opportunities for lawyers practicing outside the Wasatch Front. His efforts have included expanding the availability of virtual and hybrid continuing legal education programs and fostering collaborative, community-based learning opportunities.

Bayles also brings a multigenerational perspective to the profession. He represents the second generation of attorneys in his family; his father, James Wendell Bayles, was the first, and his daughter, Lindsay Bayles, represents the third. His nomination reflects both his longstanding commitment to public service within the legal profession and his vision for a more connected, inclusive statewide Bar.

Bar elections take place from April 1 through April 15, and all active Utah lawyers are eligible to vote. Bayles will appear on the ballot alongside other candidates seeking open positions on the Bar Commission representing divisions throughout Utah. If elected, Bayles will be the first Utah State Bar President from southern Utah since Kristin K. Woods, who served in from 2007-2008.

___

About the Utah State Bar
Established in 1931 and operating under the authority of the Utah Supreme Court, the Utah State Bar regulates and supports the legal profession in the state. With over 11,000 licensed attorneys, the Bar is committed to promoting a justice system that is accessible, understood, valued, and respected. Governed by a Commission of elected attorneys from Utah’s judicial districts, the Bar provides resources, education, and support to enhance the professional practice of its licensees and upholds the public’s trust in the legal system.

###