Governor replaces retiring Judge Anderson

by Easton Bowring
Changes have been made to the Seventh District Court after the retirement of Judge Lyle R. Anderson.
Governor Gary R. Herbert has appointed Don M. Torgerson to take Anderson’s place.
The nomination will require Utah State Senate approval.
Anderson is set to retire on June 30 after serving for more than 25 years in the Seventh District.
However, he will continue to work part time until things are fully transferred to Torgerson.
A retirement celebration will be held on Monday, June 11. It will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Seventh District Courtroom in Monticello.
“Don Torgerson’s dedication to the law and to the service of others will make him an excellent addition to the bench,” said Governor Herbert.
Torgerson has served as the backup public defender for San Juan County, as well as Grand, Carbon, and Emery counties.
He is president of Torgerson Law Offices and was managing partner of Chiara & Torgerson. Torgerson graduated from the University of Idaho School of Law with a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree.
“I appreciate Governor Herbert’s confidence in me to serve the people within the Seventh District,” Torgerson said. “If I am confirmed by the Senate, I commit my best effort to apply the law impartially, independently, and with fidelity.”
As Torgerson is a resident of Carbon County, all three Seventh District Court judges currently reside in Price.
Torgerson said, “If I am confirmed, I will be one of three district court judges in the Seventh District, which is the largest judicial district in the state.
“Although my primary assignment is in Grand and San Juan counties, I will also have obligations in Carbon and Emery.
“I have been commuting to Grand and San Juan counties for almost ten years, and I average between three to four days per week.
“My family and I are still considering our options for the future, including the possibility of relocating to Grand or San Juan counties. We love the area, and I really enjoy my work there.”
The Utah Senate Judicial Confirmation Committee is seeking public comment regarding the nomination of Torgerson.
Those who wish to comment should contact Jerry Howe, Utah State Capitol Campus, House Building Ste W210, PO Box 145210, Salt Lake City, UT 84114-5210.
All responses must be submitted Wednesday, June 13, 2018.