Appointed to the bench in 2012, Judge Barry Lawrence is viewed as an intelligent, well-prepared, and competent judge. He scores higher than the average of his district court peers in all statutory survey categories and equal to his peers in procedural fairness. Judge Lawrence’s legal ability is highly regarded by attorneys practicing in his court. They perceive him as well versed in the law and respectful toward all those appearing before him. Courtroom observers also view Judge Lawrence positively, with all reporting they would feel comfortable appearing before him. They note that he comes to court fully prepared and very knowledgeable about his caseload, clearly explaining the reasoning for his decisions. Of survey participants answering the retention question, 93% recommend that Judge Lawrence be retained.
The commission reviewed surveys and courtroom observation reports in addition to verifying that Judge Lawrence has met all time standards, judicial education requirements, and discipline standards established by the judicial branch.
Judge Barry G. Lawrence was appointed to the Third District Court in 2012. He graduated from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology in 1984. He earned his law degree, with honors, from Syracuse University in 1988. Judge Lawrence then relocated to Utah and worked at the law firm of Jones, Waldo, Holbrook & McDonough, where he had a litigation practice and served on the firm’s board of directors. In 2000, he joined the Utah Attorney General’s Office and worked in the Litigation Division, defending claims against the State. Judge Lawrence initially served in the West Jordan courthouse; he now serves in the Salt Lake City courthouse.