Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall appointed Nick Stiles to a newly created sixth judgeship on the Salt Lake City Justice Court, a move the City Council approved Tuesday night, Sept. 22, 2026. The appointment marks the first expansion of the court's judicial capacity in more than two decades.
Addressing Judicial Workload
The new position was authorized following a workload analysis conducted by the Utah Administrative Office of the Courts. The study determined that the Salt Lake City Justice Court possessed enough caseload to support more than six judges, whereas the court had previously operated with five judges. The Utah Judicial Council unanimously approved the creation of this additional position in December 2025.
Increasing Court Capacity
Mayor Mendenhall noted that the expansion was necessary to address increasing complexity and volume in the local legal system. "Our court needed more capacity to give people the time and attention their cases deserve," Mendenhall said. She added that Stiles possesses extensive experience across Utah's justice system, including work in prosecution and legal service accessibility. "He understands both how courts work and how they can work better for the people they serve," Mendenhall said.
Scope of Justice Court
The Salt Lake City Justice Court serves as a primary point of contact for many local residents. The court is responsible for handling Class B and Class C misdemeanor cases, infractions occurring within Salt Lake City, traffic citations, and small claims cases. For more than 20 years, the court has maintained nearly the same judicial capacity despite Salt Lake City's growth and the increasing complexity of court cases.
Appointment Process
The selection process for the new judge involved a judicial nominating commission, which reviewed various applicants and presented five finalists to the mayor's office. Following Mendenhall's selection of Stiles, the Salt Lake City Council provided the necessary approval for the appointment. Before the judgeship becomes official, Stiles must complete a new judge orientation with the Administrative Office of the Courts, and the Utah Judicial Council must certify the appointment.
Professional Background
Stiles currently serves as the administrator for both the Utah Supreme Court and the Utah Court of Appeals, with a professional focus on expanding and improving court services. His previous legal experience includes serving as an associate and assistant city prosecutor. He also managed the Utah Judiciary's Domestic Violence Program and directed the Access to Justice Office at the Utah State Bar. "It is an honor to be appointed by Mayor Mendenhall and confirmed by the City Council to be Salt Lake City's next judge," Stiles said. "I love this city, and I am eager to continue the high standard of service at the Justice Court while ensuring access, fairness, and dignity for all who come before the bench."
Looking Ahead
Stiles, a resident of Salt Lake City's District 5, lives with his wife, Jennie. His appointment aims to ensure that the local court system continues to meet the needs of the growing city through increased judicial availability.
