On June 21, 2024, the Utah State Bar hosted its Annual Meeting at the Utah Law and Justice Center, a highly anticipated event that brought together legal professionals from across the state. This year’s meeting was marked by insightful presentations, notable updates, and the honoring of distinguished members of the legal community.

Federal Court Updates

Alison Adams, Chief Deputy Clerk of Court, provided a comprehensive update on the activities and changes within the United States District Court for the District of Utah. Some key highlights included:

• Loss of Judge Bruce Jenkins: The legal community mourned the passing of Judge Bruce Jenkins in November 2023, who served with distinction for 58 years.
• Appointment of Judge Ann Marie McIff Allen: In April 2024, Judge Allen was appointed to the federal bench, filling the position left by Judge Nuffer. Judge Allen, the first federal district judge appointed to serve in Utah’s Southern Region, will primarily handle cases in St. George.
• Expansion in St. George: The federal court presence in St. George continues to grow, with more Assistant United States Attorneys, Federal Defenders, and probation officers joining the team. Plans for a dedicated federal courthouse in St. George are underway, with an optimistic completion date in early 2026.
• Renovations to Moss Federal Courthouse: Renovations are ongoing with a projected occupancy date in Fall 2025, although some delays are anticipated due to unforeseen conditions.
• Case Filings and Statistics: Civil filings have seen a 17% increase, while criminal filings have decreased by 15%. The Southern Region contributes significantly to the district’s caseload.
• Specialty Courts and Naturalization Ceremonies: The specialty courts have continued to serve the community effectively, with notable success in programs like the Utah Alternatives to Conviction Track (UACT). Naturalization ceremonies remain a highlight, with a significant number of new citizens being welcomed each year.

Supreme Court Board of Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE)

Sarah Jenkins of the MCLE Board reported on its ongoing efforts to enhance the rules and regulations governing continuing legal education. Key initiatives include:

• Rule Updates: Two petitions were filed, with the first leading to significant updates adopted in March 2024, and the second currently under review.
• Comprehensive Review: A detailed review of the MCLE rules is focusing on reciprocity with other jurisdictions, availability of CLE programs, carryover of CLE credits, and simplifying self-reporting processes.

Judicial Updates and Initiatives

Judge John Pearce represented the Utah Judiciary and provided an annual report, emphasizing the commitment to providing an open, fair, and efficient system for justice. Key updates included:

• Remote and Hybrid Hearings: Efforts to develop consistent rules for virtual hearings are underway, aiming to enhance accessibility and predictability.
• Community Court Program: A new initiative bringing court services to local community centers, focusing on family law issues, has been successfully implemented.
• Water Law Education: Utah continues to lead in judicial education for water law cases, with ongoing training programs in collaboration with the National Judicial College.
• Systems Review: The Judicial Council has resumed its comprehensive review of the judiciary’s operations, aiming to improve service delivery and public trust.

Judge of the Year: Honoring Judge Suchada P. Bazzelle

The highlight of the meeting was the honoring of Judge Suchada P. Bazzelle as the 2024 Judge of the Year. Judge Bazzelle delivered an inspiring acceptance speech, reflecting on her career and expressing heartfelt gratitude. Below is her acceptance speech published with her consent:

A couple of weeks ago, I received an email with the subject line starting with “You’ve been selected.” I was at the end of a long workday and was feeling more than a little snarky – “What, I’ve been selected to serve on a committee?” or maybe “I’ve been selected to extend my car’s warranty?” Fortunately, I was alone, so this was a private snark. But I guess I’ve just made it public… News flash – I can be kind of snarky.

Then I read on to find that I had been selected as the 2024 Judge of the Year. You know, after 30 years in the legal field and 17 years on the bench, not much surprises me anymore. But this email did it. I was, and am, absolutely astonished. Well played, Commissioners. You have rendered me speechless for the better part of two weeks. I have had to search long and hard for the words to adequately express my gratitude for this incredible honor. I am humbled to accept this recognition and want to do so on behalf of the many dedicated people who help me achieve what I do every day.

First, to my amazing husband and our family. Thank you for your unflagging support and encouragement over the years. You make me want to be a better person, a better judge. You make me want to help other children and other families be safer and healthier. You are my “WHY.” I would not be me without you.

I want to also recognize my work family. Thank you to my brilliant judicial colleagues and our incredible support staff. I am so blessed to be surrounded by people who contribute so much skill, intelligence, creativity and dogged dedication to the work we do. You are each shining examples of teamwork and devoted public service.

And to my dear friends, some of whom have joined us today. Thank you for keeping me somewhat sane and balanced. Thank you for the lunches, the love, and the laughter.

During the course of my career, I have had the opportunity to meet many legal professionals from across the United States, and even some from other nations. I can say without equivocation that Utah’s legal community is among the best. We have a self-governing Bar that promotes integrity and civility among its members and strives to create a justice system that is understood, valued, respected and accessible to all. Bar representatives occupy seats at many pivot points in our government to promote and protect the interests and rights of our citizens. This is important work and our Bar rises to the occasion.

Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of serving on our Judicial Council and have had a front row seat to observe the operation and governance of our court system. At a time when the judiciary is often perceived as stodgy and impenetrable, Utah’s judicial branch is a leader in responsiveness, collaboration, and accountability. It strives to provide a court system that values fairness, transparency and dedication to the rule of law.

And the Juvenile Court – well, that’s where I live. I always say that if you want to change lives, including your own, the Juvenile Court is where the action is. I spend my days at the place where children and families intersect with the courts. I have the opportunity to see the law in action at a very human level; protecting, correcting and healing that which our society holds most dear – children and families. I am extremely fortunate to spend my time doing something so meaningful and about which I am so passionate.

Commissioners, I am deeply grateful for this honor, and I thank you for your kindness and recognition. I assure you that the honor is entirely mine to serve this great state and its outstanding legal community, and I will continue to do so with diligence and fidelity.

NOTE: This blog will be updated as more information is made available.