Appointed in 2014, Judge Kara L. Pettit’s scores are statistically above the average of her district court peers on administrative skills and consistent with her peers on all other scored minimum performance standards. Ninety-four percent of survey respondents recommend Judge Pettit for retention. Survey respondents and courtroom observers agree that she is very diligent, demonstrates equal respect for all parties, and is considerate of individual circumstances and time, though some note she could more actively manage the conduct of attorneys and litigants. When rating judicial attributes, respondents identify Judge Pettit as particularly attentive. They also characterize her as notably respectful, patient, and prepared. All courtroom observers report that if appearing before the judge, they expect Judge Pettit would treat them fairly. 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.
Governor Gary R. Herbert appointed Judge Kara L. Pettit to the bench in September 2014. She served in Summit County from 2015-2017 but now handles a civil calendar in Salt Lake County. In 1988, Judge Pettit obtained an accounting degree, magna cum laude, from the University of Northern Iowa. From 1988-1992 she was an internal auditor for 3M Company. In 1995, she obtained her law degree from the University of Utah. From 1995-1999, Judge Pettit was a deputy prosecuting attorney in Boise, Idaho. From 2000-2014, she practiced civil litigation at the law firm of Snow, Christensen & Martineau, until being appointed to the bench. Judge Pettit currently serves as a member of the Utah Judicial Council and the Utah Bar’s New Lawyer Training Program.