Bar Commission Election Results

We are pleased to announce the newly elected leadership of our Board of Bar Commissioners for the upcoming term beginning July 1, 2026.

Congratulations to the incoming President-Elect, Thomas J. Bayles, ProvenLaw, PLLC, who will serve during the 2026–2027 fiscal year and assume the presidency for the 2027–2028 term.

We also congratulate the newly elected members of the Board of Bar Commissioners, who will help guide the Bar’s mission and initiatives statewide:

First Division: R. Christian Hansen — Hillyard Anderson & Olsen, Logan
Second Division: Yvette Donosso — Collins Rupp, Bountiful
Third Division:
Ashley Biehl — Utah Attorney General’s Office, SLC
Ezzy Khaosanga — Scholnick Thorne Holland, SLC
Walter A. Romney, Jr. — Clyde Snow & Sessions, SLC
Fourth Division: Jeremy C. Reutzel — Bennett Tueller Johnson Deere, Lehi

These individuals bring a wealth of experience, dedication, and leadership to the Board. Their service will play a vital role in strengthening the Bar’s efforts to support its members and uphold the highest standards of the legal profession.

Get Your Free Access to Smokeball Bill

We have partnered with the legal practice management company Smokeball to ensure you have the best resources at your fingertips. We know the hurdles of running a law firm, and this incredible offer is designed to help solo and small firm attorneys thrive and stay compliant. Sign up for Smokeball Bill today, ABSOLUTELY FREE, to manage your trust accounting and billing with ease.

Mandatory Online Licensing

The Bar’s licensing renewal period begins on Monday, June 1st. To ensure a smooth and efficient renewal process, please take a few minutes to complete the following:

Verify your email address. Confirm that your preferred email address on file is current and accurate. Important notices, confirmations, and renewal-related communications are sent via email.
Add a backup email address. You may want to consider providing a secondary email address that allows for backup communication in case you lose access to your preferred email. If you are currently using a law school email, please add a backup address, as your school account may become inactive.
Allow Bar emails. Add licensing@utahbar.org to your safe sender's list, so you receive all renewal notifications and account recovery messages.

Please log in to your online practice portal to confirm your preferred email address and to make any necessary updates or additions to your contact information.

License renewal and fees are due July 1 and will be late on
August 1. If renewal is not complete and payment is not received by September 1, your license will be suspended.

District Court Appointments

Gov. Cox has appointed Patricia C. Kuendig and Todd M. Olsen to Utah’s Third District Court, pending Senate confirmation.

Kuendig, a partner at Dodd & Kuendig with extensive civil, criminal, and family law litigation experience, and Olsen, a current Third District Court commissioner and former senior prosecutor, were both praised by Cox for their fairness, professionalism, and commitment to public service.

Gov. Cox has appointed Bryan J. Pattison and Jack B. Burns to Utah’s Fifth District Court, pending Senate confirmation, to replace retiring judges.

Pattison, a founding partner at Blanchard Pattison with extensive appellate and civil litigation experience, and Burns, a Cedar City attorney with a broad background in civil and criminal law, were both praised by Cox for their integrity, legal expertise, and commitment to serving their communities.

Utah State Bar Happenings

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Nominate Distinguished Paralegal of the Year

We invite you to submit nominations to recognize an outstanding paralegal. Nomination forms and additional information are available by emailing Greg Wayment at wayment@mcpc.law

Be a part of a historic return to Sun Valley while also honoring 95 years of the Bar! Earn valuable CLE credit, expand your skills, and connect with colleagues from across Utah. Space fills up fast! Register here.

Law Day Luncheon

We are recognizing Law Day on May 1, 2026, and reflecting on how the rule of law ensures all Americans can fulfill their dreams.

This year, our CLE panel is honored to include Hon. Samuel Alba (ret.) and Bar President-Elect Tyler Young.

Awards featured are Young Lawyer of the Year, Law Firm of the Year, Pro Bono Publico awards to practitioners and firms, as well as the Liberty Bell Award.

Reserve Your Seat Here.

Well-Being Week in Law

Join the legal community, May 4-8, 2026, for a week dedicated to health, balance, and professional fulfillment, recognizing that well-being is essential to your professional competence, as reflected in the

Rules of Professional Conduct 1.1 (Competence), Comment 9.

Special virtual CLE featuring Manar Morales on May 7th, 12-1 PM.

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