The Civil Appeals Division defends the state’s victories on appeal and challenges erroneous decisions that threaten Utah law and policy. Under the direction of the solicitor general, the division leads on complex appellate litigation that shapes Utah’s legal landscape. Working closely with trial attorneys, agencies, and policymakers, the division ensures that state law is faithfully defended at every level of review.
From protecting Utah’s energy policies to defending the Legislature’s authority to enact laws that safeguard children from the harms of social media, the division plays a central role in preserving the state’s policy choices. In closely watched cases, the team continues to advocate for the principle that important decisions affecting Utah families should remain with elected lawmakers, not unelected courts.
With rigor, collaboration, and commitment to the rule of law, the division protects the integrity of state law and advances the interests of Utah and its people.
briefs and other substantive filings
briefs and other substantive pleadings supervised
oral arguments, including those supervised
mediations, settlements, and dismissals
Civil Appeals defeated a challenge to the state’s energy policies. A group of minors filed a lawsuit against Utah through their guardians and the Utah Supreme Court dismissed the case.
Our Civil Appeals team filed a compelling brief opposing review of a challenge to Utah’s DNA and traffic stop laws. The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear the case after our strong defense of Utah’s public safety policies.
Utah and several water districts successfully defended the denial of a Colorado company’s bid to divert Green River water. Our attorneys went in front of the Utah Supreme Court and advocated for the state’s authority to safeguard its natural resources.
Our Civil Appeals attorneys successfully defeated a challenge to a state income tax law. A taxpayer sued the state over a law that considers someone a resident of the state for state income tax purposes if that person’s spouse is a resident student enrolled in a state higher education institution.
