Appointed in 2004, Judge L. G. Cutler scores above the average of his justice court peers in integrity and judicial temperament, administrative skills, and procedural fairness and consistent with the average of his peers in legal ability. Survey respondents choose 94% positive words from a list to describe Judge Cutler, viewing him as both considerate and receptive. Most respondents and courtroom observers characterize Judge Cutler as polite and respectful, although some respondents report that he is not as considerate of court staff outside the courtroom. Observers note that Judge Cutler consistently demonstrates personal concern for defendants, seeking their input, offering explanations to them, and carefully considering their individual circumstances before imposing sentence. All observers report they would feel comfortable appearing before him. Of 55 survey respondents answering the retention question, 48 (87%) recommend retention for Judge Cutler.
The commission reviewed surveys and courtroom observation reports in addition to verifying that Judge Cutler has met all time standards, judicial education requirements, and discipline standards established by the judicial branch.
Judge L.G. Cutler has served the Salt Lake City Justice Court since 2004. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah in 1975 and a J.D. from the University of Utah College of Law in 1979. Prior to taking the bench, Judge Cutler served as staff attorney with Utah Legal Services and provided legal representation to indigent children, parents, and families in Juvenile Court. As a sole practitioner, his work focused on domestic law, guardian ad litem representation of children, and criminal defense. Judge Cutler also contracted with Salt Lake County communities to provide prosecution services for more than 20 years.