Appointed in 2016, Judge Robert Lunnen’s scores are consistent with his district court peers on all minimum performance standards. Ninety-three percent of survey respondents recommend him for retention. Survey ratings of judicial attributes indicate Judge Lunnen is notably patient. Respondents and courtroom observers find this judge demonstrates fairness through his diligence, skillful interactions with litigants, and willingness to let those in court be heard. They also appreciate the judge’s professionalism in controlling his courtroom. However, a few are critical of the judge’s decision-making and suggest he strive to demonstrate his open-mindedness throughout court proceedings. All court observers report confidence that they would be treated fairly if they were to appear in Judge Lunnen’s court. This judge meets discipline standards set by statute and has been certified by the Judicial Council as meeting all time standards, education requirements, and mental and physical competence standards.
Judge Robert C. Lunnen was appointed to the Fourth District Court in December 2016 by Governor Gary R. Herbert. He serves in Utah, Wasatch, Juab, and Millard counties. Judge Lunnen received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Brigham Young University in 1982. He obtained his law degree in 1985 from Loyola University, School of Law, New Orleans. Prior to his judicial appointment, Judge Lunnen served for 21 years as an attorney for the United States Department of Justice. He was the Criminal Chief of the United States Attorney’s Office, District of Utah, when he retired. He served two details as the United States Judicial Attaché in Bogota, Colombia and in Kabul, Afghanistan. Judge Lunnen has also served as a City Attorney, Assistant Attorney General and as a Private Practitioner. He is currently assigned to the American Fork Department of the Fourth District Court.