Appointed to the bench in 2002, Judge Brendan McCullagh scores higher than the average of his justice court peers in legal ability and equal to the average of his peers in all other survey categories. Survey respondents describe him as an intelligent, knowledgeable, and confident judge who thoroughly explains both his reasoning and relevant courtroom procedures. Courtroom observers report that Judge McCullagh listens attentively, uses easily understood language, and handles cases efficiently and impartially. Most said they would feel comfortable appearing before him. Of survey respondents answering the retention question, 85% recommend that Judge McCullagh be retained.
The commission reviewed surveys and courtroom observation reports in addition to verifying that Judge McCullagh has met all time standards, judicial education requirements, and discipline standards established by the judicial branch.
Judge Brendan P. McCullagh was appointed to the West Valley City Justice Court in 2002. He earned a law degree from the University of Utah College of Law in 1995 and subsequently served as a Deputy District Attorney for Salt Lake County. Judge McCullagh was elected by his justice court peers to serve two terms on the Utah Judicial Council. In 2007, he received the Utah Judicial Council’s Quality of Justice award for his dedication to the highest quality of justice. In 2008, he was honored with the Scott M. Matheson Award for outstanding service to law-related education. In 2010, Judge McCullagh was awarded the Utah Substance Abuse Advisory Council’s Governor’s award for contributions to establishing the Utah E-Warrant system.