R595-1-1. Definitions

In addition to terms defined in Section 78A-11-102 et seq. of the Utah Code:

A. "Chair" means the chair of the Commission and includes the vice chair or acting chair.

B. "Confidential hearing" means a hearing at which allegations of misconduct or disability are presented to a hearing panel or masters for resolution.

C. "Contract investigator" means a person with whom a contract exists for the performance of investigative services.

D. "Examiner" means a lawyer designated by the Commission to present evidence at a confidential hearing.

E. "Formal charges" means the specific allegations of misconduct or disability identified by the Commission at the conclusion of a full investigation and upon which further proceedings will be conducted.

F. "Formal complaint" means the written document that formally charges a judge with misconduct or disability.

G. "Full investigation" means that portion of an investigation in which the judge is invited to respond in writing to specific allegations identified by the Commission. A full investigation may also include, but is not limited to: examination of documents, correspondence, court records, transcripts or tapes; interviews of the complainant, counsel, court staff, the judge and other witnesses; and inspection of physical facilities or objects.

H. "Hearing panel" means a panel of at least six members of the Commission designated to conduct a confidential hearing.

I. "Masters" means the special masters appointed by the Commission to conduct a confidential hearing.

J. "Misconduct" means a violation of the Utah Code of Judicial Conduct or Section 78A-11-105(1)(a), (b), (c), or (e) of the Utah Code.

K. "Preliminary investigation" means that portion of an investigation conducted upon receipt of a written complaint or upon authorization of the Commission. A preliminary investigation may include, but is not limited to: examination of documents, correspondence, court records, transcripts or tapes; interviews of the complainant, counsel, court staff and other witnesses; and inspection of physical facilities or objects.

L. "Presiding master" means the special master designated to preside over any hearing conducted by masters.

M. "Proceeding" means all steps in the Commission's discipline and disability process.

N. "Record" means all documents required by statute to be submitted to the Utah Supreme Court.

O. "Supreme Court" means the Utah Supreme Court.