Appointed in 2005, Judge Carolyn McHugh received praise from survey respondents for her thoughtful, respectful, and analytical style, both in the courtroom and in her written opinions. Many respondents appreciated Judge McHugh’s preparation and impartiality and noted her prompt, detail-oriented approach. Judge McHugh received a perfect score from survey respondents for the diligence of her work habits. Of survey respondents who answered the retention question, 94% recommended that Judge McHugh be retained.
The commission reviewed surveys in addition to verifying that Judge McHugh has met all time standards, judicial education requirements, and discipline standards established by the judicial branch.
Judge Carolyn B. McHugh received her law degree in 1982 from the University of Utah, graduating second in her class and serving as a Utah Law Review editor. After one year as a federal law clerk to Judge Bruce S. Jenkins, she joined the firm Parr Brown Gee & Loveless. Judge McHugh practiced law for over twenty years before she was appointed to the Court of Appeals in 2005 by Governor Jon M. Huntsman. She has been recognized for her professional excellence, including as the 2001 Utah Woman Lawyer of the Year, and is active on committees dedicated to improving civic education and access to the courts. Judge McHugh was elected the presiding judge of the Court of Appeals for 2011-13.