Gov. Spencer J. Cox has appointed Commissioner Sean M. Petersen to fill a judicial vacancy on the Fourth District Court. The governor’s nominations are subject to confirmation by the Utah Senate.
“Sean’s experience as both a court commissioner and an attorney in the private sector have prepared him well for this new responsibility on the bench,” Gov. Cox said. “I’m pleased that he is willing and able to serve the people of Utah in this way.”
Petersen currently serves as court commissioner of Fourth District Court, a position he’s held since 2018. Prior to his current position, he served as a personal injury and criminal defense attorney at Howard, Lewis & Peterson in Provo. He’s also worked at Burt, Swanson, Lathan, Alexander & McCann in Oregon.
Petersen received his J.D. from Willamette University in Oregon, and graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in History from Brigham Young University.
“I am humbled by Gov. Cox’s appointment,” Petersen said. “If confirmed, I commit to serve my community and the state of Utah with fidelity and respect.”
The Utah Senate Judicial Confirmation Committee is seeking public comment on 4th District Court Commissioner Sean M. Petersen, who Governor Spencer J. Cox appointed as a judge to the 4th District 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, July 22, 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, Mr. Petersen will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Darold J. McDade, July 16, 2021.
The 4th District includes Juab, Millard, Utah and Wasatch 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.
