Utah State Bar News & Announcements

SUNSHINE AWARDS - The Utah Headliners Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists recognized the achievements of individuals who have helped promote access to government.

Among those selected for awards were Attorney General Mark Shurtleff; and lawyers Jeff Hunt, Michael O’Brien and David Reymann who worked together to secure approval by the Utah Supreme Court of a Shield Rule for reporters—a first for the state—that protects reporters from being compelled to divulge confidential sources.

More information is provided at: http://attorneygeneral.utah.gov/PrRel/prmarch192008.htm

MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT V. LOWRY SNOW

Bar Elections
Utah State Bar elections are in full swing. We will choose a President-elect and three Third District representatives in the coming weeks. Running for President-elect are: Stephen W. Owens and Scott R. Sabey. Seeking to represent those in the Third District are: Su Chon, Laurie Gilliland, James D. Gilson, Lori W. Nelson, Margaret Plane, Rodney G. Snow and Rusty Vetter. We want to thank the fine attorneys who are willing to balance their work load with service to our Bar. The vitality of the Bar and our success in fulfilling our mission is dependent upon concerned and qualified volunteers like these candidates who are willing to devote their time and energy. Read the candidates’ statements at: http://www.utahbar.org/elections/Welcome.html

The Supreme Court and the Judicial Council invite comments to proposed amendments to the following court rules. The comment period expires May 28, 2008.

Summary of proposed amendments

Rules of Civil Procedure

URCP 103. Child support worksheets. Repeal. Eliminates the requirement that parties send a copy of their child support worksheet to the AOC.

The Supreme Court and the Judicial Council invite comments to proposed amendments to the following court rules. The comment period expires May 28, 2008.

Summary of proposed amendments

Rules of Civil Procedure

URCP 103. Child support worksheets. Repeal. Eliminates the requirement that parties send a copy of their child support worksheet to the AOC.

The Utah Supreme Court has issued Standing Order No. 8 as to establishment of a pilot program to require submission of electronic courtesy briefs to the Utah Supreme Court and the Utah Court of Appeals. Standing Order No. 8 is effective May 15, 2008. Questions or inquiries should be directed to Sue Willis, deputy court clerk, Utah Supreme Court, 801-578-3900. View Standing Order No. 8 at the following link: http://www.utcourts.gov/resources/rules/urap/supctso.htm#8

Summary of amendments

Rules Governing the Utah State Bar

USB 14-1001. IOLTA. Amend. Clarifies the formula for determining whether the net income from investing client funds exceeds the cost of doing so. Directs the Utah Bar Foundation to determine whether an institution is eligible for deposits. Establishes the criteria to be an eligible institution. Restricts deposits to eligible institutions and defines the types of accounts permitted. Establishes sanctions and procedures if a lawyer fails to report annually.

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT DISTRICT OF UTAH OFFICE OF THE CLERK OF COURT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD FOR PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE LOCAL RULES

The Court has released proposed amendments to local rules of practice for public comment. The text of the proposed rules are available on the court's website (http://www.utd.uscourts.gov/documents/local_amendments.html) or you may request a copy from the Office of the Clerk of Court by calling 801-524-6121. Comments may be submitted by email to Louise_York@utd.uscourts.gov or in writing to the Office of the Clerk, attention: Louise York, 350 S. Main St., Rm 150, Salt Lake City, UT 84101. The comment period ends on June 2, 2008.