PRESS RELEASE
SUN VALLEY, Idaho (August 7, 2026) — Against the backdrop of its 95th Anniversary Summer Convention, the Utah State Bar celebrated nearly a century of service to Utah’s legal profession by recognizing exceptional lawyers, judges, volunteers and leaders whose dedication has strengthened the justice system and the communities it serves.
This year’s convention also marked the conclusion of a cherished tradition. After decades of gathering in Sun Valley, 230 legal professionals came together one final time in the mountain setting that has hosted generations of attorneys, judges, and families while fostering professional excellence, collegiality and lifelong friendships.
“As we celebrate 95 years of the Utah State Bar, we also honor the people whose service has shaped our profession and improved access to justice for Utahns,” said Bar President Kim Cordova. “This year’s award recipients exemplify the highest ideals of professionalism, integrity, leadership and public service. Recognizing them during our final summer convention in Sun Valley makes this celebration especially meaningful as we reflect on our history and look toward the Bar’s future.”
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The Bar presented the following distinguished awards:
Lifetime Service Award
Chief Justice Matthew B. Durrant
Chief Durrant received the Bar’s Lifetime Service Award in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to Utah’s judiciary and legal profession. During more than two decades on the Utah Supreme Court, including 14 years as Chief Justice, he has led nationally recognized efforts to modernize the courts, improve access to justice, expand court technology and strengthen public trust in the judicial system.
Lawyer of the Year
R. John Moody
Moody was honored as the 2026 Lawyer of the Year for a career dedicated to protecting Utah’s most vulnerable children. One of the original attorneys with Utah’s Office of Guardian ad Litem, Moody has spent more than three decades advocating for children and families while serving as a nationally certified Child Welfare Law Specialist. His collaborative leadership and commitment to improving Utah’s child welfare system have left a lasting impact on countless lives.
Judge of the Year
Hon. James D. Gardner
Judge Gardner, of Utah’s Third District Court, received the Judge of the Year Award for his distinguished judicial service and leadership. Since his appointment in 2014, Judge Gardner has served on the Utah Judicial Council, the Utah State Bar CLE Advisory Committee, and numerous committees dedicated to advancing professionalism and the administration of justice.
Special Service Award
D. Gilbert (Gil) Athay
Athay was presented with the Special Service Award for more than five decades of distinguished service to Utah’s legal profession. A respected criminal defense attorney and longtime chairman of the Salt Lake Legal Defender Association, Athay has built a career defined by vigorous advocacy, professional excellence and an unwavering commitment to the fair administration of justice.
Committee of the Year
Governmental Relations Committee
The Governmental Relations Committee was recognized as the 2026 Committee of the Year for its exceptional work during Utah’s 66th legislative session. Under the leadership of Co-Chairs Jaqualin Friend Peterson and Sara Bouley, committee members provided timely analysis, policy recommendations and advocacy on legislation affecting the legal profession, the courts and the public. Their collaborative efforts helped inform policymakers while protecting the integrity of Utah’s justice system.
Section of the Year
Utah State Bar Paralegal Division
The Bar’s Paralegal Division was named Section of the Year in recognition of its outstanding leadership, professional development programs, mentorship opportunities, and commitment to serving members throughout Utah. The 30-year-old division continues to elevate the paralegal profession while strengthening collaboration across the legal community.
As the Bar approaches its centennial in 2031, this year’s convention served as both a celebration of the organization’s rich history and a reminder that the strength of the legal profession depends on the dedication of individuals committed to serving others.
While the location of future summer conventions will evolve, the values that have defined the Bar for nearly 95 years—service, professionalism, integrity and the rule of law—remain steadfast. The achievements of this year’s award recipients embody those enduring principles and inspire the next generation of Utah legal professionals.
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 12,000 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.
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