May 22, 2026 –The legal profession welcomed its newest attorneys and Licensed Paralegal Practitioners during today’s Admission Ceremony held at Utah’s new North Capitol Building in Salt Lake City.
Hosted in partnership with the United States District Court for the District of Utah, the Utah Supreme Court and the Utah State Bar, the ceremony marked a significant milestone for those taking the oath to serve the public, uphold the Constitution and carry forward the responsibilities of the legal profession.
The ceremony opened with the convening of the court led by Gary Serdar, Clerk of Court for the U.S. District Court for the District of Utah.
Chief Judge Jill Parrish welcomed attendees and reflected on the importance of public service, professionalism and the role attorneys play in preserving trust in the justice system.
“Your careers will differ, but the principles embodied in the oath that you are about to take will remain constant,” Parrish said. “They will guide you when the answers are difficult, when the pressures are significant, and when your character matters most.”
Parrish emphasized that public trust in the legal system is built through the conduct of individual attorneys.
“The public’s confidence in our legal system is built one case at a time and one lawyer at a time,” she said. “It is earned through integrity, professionalism, respect for others, and commitment to the truth.”
She encouraged the newly admitted attorneys and LPPs to embrace the opportunities the profession provides to serve others, protect rights, and strengthen communities.
Chief Magistrate Judge Cecilia Romero delivered remarks emphasizing the significance of the oath and the responsibilities that accompany admission to the profession.
“The oath is more than words because we believe and act like they are more than just words,” Romero said. “It is a commitment to yourself and our community that you will serve on how you will behave in this profession.”
Romero reminded admittees that the profession depends heavily on integrity and self-governance.
“You largely govern yourself in this profession,” she said, encouraging new licensees of the Bar to uphold the values and standards expected of legal professionals.
The Young Lawyers Division also welcomed the newly admitted legal professionals. Sydney Sell, YLD board member, encouraged the new licensees of the Bar to become actively involved in the legal community, seek meaningful mentorship opportunities, and build relationships that will support both professional growth and personal well-being throughout their careers.
The formal motion for admission was presented by Kim Cordova, president of the Utah State Bar Board of Bar Commissioners, alongside President-elect Tyler Young.
Cordova reflected on the historical meaning behind the term “passing the bar,” noting both its literal and symbolic significance.
“Only certain people with the proper qualifications are able to pass that bar,” Cordova said. “It’s literal, and it’s symbolic.”
She explained that the tradition dates back to medieval Europe, when physical railings separated the public from lawyers and judges in courtrooms.
“It also represents the legal profession’s authority, prestige and responsibility,” she said, “signifying a lawyer’s qualifications and the right to practice in a courtroom.”
The motion marked the official transition of the admittees into the legal profession.
Nicole Gray, Clerk of Court for the Utah Supreme Court, administered both the Attorney Oath and the LPP Oath.
Today’s ceremony represented more than the completion of legal education and examinations. It served as a reminder of the profession’s broader responsibility to the public and the rule of law.
As Utah’s newest legal professionals begin their careers, they enter a profession grounded in advocacy, ethics and service — one that plays a vital role in ensuring access to justice for individuals, families, businesses and communities across the state.
The Utah State Bar congratulates all those admitted during today’s ceremony and welcomes them to the legal profession.
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