Gov. Spencer J. Cox has nominated Monica Diaz to fill the Third District Juvenile Court judicial vacancy.
“As director of the Utah Sentencing Commission, Monica Diaz demonstrated a thorough knowledge of the Constitution, respect for the law and expertise in policy,” Gov. Cox said. “These experiences — as well as her legal work as both a prosecutor and a public defender — will serve her well as a Juvenile Court judge. I’m proud to recommend her to this important position.”
Diaz currently serves as director of the Utah Sentencing Commission, a position she’s held since 2020. Prior to her current position, she served as a managing attorney at Utah Juvenile Defender Attorneys, LLC and as a deputy district attorney in the Salt Lake County Attorney’s Office.
Diaz received her J.D. from the University of Utah, S.J. Quinney College of Law, and graduated with a bachelor’s of science degree from Westminster College.
“I am humbled and honored to be appointed by Gov. Cox as a Third District Juvenile Court judge,” Diaz said. “I have continually strived to serve the youth and families of Utah and, if confirmed, I will continue to serve through the fair, diligent and impartial application of the law.”
The governor’s nominations are subject to confirmation by the Utah Senate.
Therefore, the Utah Senate Judicial Confirmation Committee is seeking public comment on attorney Monica Diaz who Gov. Spencer J. Cox appointed as a judge for the 3rd District Juvenile Court.
Those who desire to comment should contact Utah Senate Judicial Confirmation Committee staff, Jerry Howe at the Office of Legislative Research and General Counsel, by 5:00 p.m. Thursday, May 13, 2021, at the Utah State Capitol, House Building, Suite W210, PO Box 145210, Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-5210. All statements should include the respondent’s name, telephone number and mailing address.
The Senate Judicial Confirmation Committee plans to hold a public hearing, then issue a recommendation to the full Senate. If confirmed by the Senate, Diaz will fill the vacancy left by the retirement of Judge James Michie, April 1, 2021.
The 3rd Judicial District includes Salt Lake, Summit and Tooele Counties.
Members of the Senate Judicial Confirmation Committee are Sen. Todd Weiler (Chair), Sen. Kirk Cullimore, Sen. David P. Hinkins, Sen. Don L. Ipson, Sen. Jani Iwamoto, Sen. Karen Mayne and Sen. Daniel McCay
Senate Judicial Confirmation Committee information is available here.
