The Appellate Judicial Nominating Commission announced this week that nominees have been selected for two vacancies on the Utah Supreme Court. These vacancies result from the retirement of Justice Diana Hagen on May 8, 2026, and Chief Justice Matthew Durrant on August 31, 2026. Among the nominees is Eighth District Court Judge Samuel Chiara. Written comments are invited and can be submitted to the Appellate Judicial Nominating Commission at judicialvacancies@utah.gov. The deadline for written comments is at noon on August 16, 2026. The Nominating Commission may request further information or conduct an investigation of the nominees after reviewing public comments. After the public comment period, the names will be sent to Governor Cox, who will have 30 days to make the appointment for each vacancy. The appointees are then subject to confirmation by the Utah Senate. To view the entire list of nominees, visit www.utahbar.org/nominees-announced-for-two-utah-supreme-court-vacancies.
