Appointed to the bench in 2013, Judge Paul ͘Parker is a relatively new judge who scores consistent with the average of his district court peers in all survey categories. According to survey respondents, Judge Parker is a capable, well-prepared, and professional judge. They describe him as confident and patient. Some attorneys participating in the survey observe that Judge Parker’s knowledge of civil law needs to be stronger. All courtroom observers praise Judge Parker and indicate they would feel comfortable appearing before him. They describe him as knowledgeable and prepared, with a calm, focused, and authoritative courtroom presence. Of survey respondents answering the retention question, 86% recommend that Judge Parker be retained.
The commission reviewed surveys and courtroom observation reports in addition to verifying that Judge Parker has met all time standards, judicial education requirements, and discipline standards established by the judicial branch.
Judge Paul B. Parker was appointed to the Third District Court in 2013 by Governor Gary Herbert. He served as a police officer for the Vernal City Police Department from 1978 until 1985. He left the Police Department to finish his education and completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Police Science from Weber State University later in 1985. He earned his law degree from the University of Utah in 1988. Until his appointment to the bench, Judge Parker practiced law as a deputy Salt Lake County District Attorney, prosecuting felonies such as child abuse, sexual assault and homicide. His assignments at the District Attorney’s Office also included supervising the Special Victim Team and, later, the Justice Division.