Judge Scott Hadley is a very strong judge whose demeanor and courtroom conduct are exemplary. Survey results indicate that Judge Hadley is polite, respectful, and willing to listen. Attorneys, court staff, and jurors describe him as knowledgeable, patient, and fair. Attorney responses indicate he is well-prepared for hearings and manages his calendar well. Attorneys, court staff, and jurors all scored him above the average of other district court judges in all survey categories. Some attorneys raise issues regarding his inclination or ability to adequately manage and decide more difficult or complex cases. Of the 66 attorneys who responded to the retention question, 60 (91%) recommended retention. All 15 (100%) court staff also recommended retention. Courtroom observers were very positive, highlighting Judge Hadley’s excellent judicial demeanor, his thoroughness and consistency, and his willingness to hear fully from all parties.
The commission reviewed surveys and courtroom observation reports in addition to verifying that Judge has met all time standards, judicial education requirements, and discipline standards established by the judicial branch.
Judge Scott M. Hadley was appointed to the Second District Court in May 2003 by Gov. Michael O. Leavitt. Judge Hadley received a B.S. degree from Weber State University and a Juris Doctor from Brigham Young University Law School. He practiced law for 16 years, culminating as a shareholder at Van Cott, Bagley, Cornwall & McCarthy, before being selected as a Court Commissioner in 1997, where he served until his judicial appointment. He co-founded, served as president, and is a Master of the Bench of the Rex E. Lee American Inn of Court, an organization dedicated to the improvement of ethics and professionalism within the legal profession. Judge Hadley currently serves as vice-chair of the Board of District Court Judges.