VERNAL — Eighth District Court Judge A. Lynn Payne has announced his retirement after 22 years on the bench.
Payne's retirement will take effect July 1.
"I appreciate the great honor that has been mine to serve the people of the state of Utah as a district court judge," Payne said in a brief statement. "I believe that it is time for me to take a new direction in my life."
Payne said he plans to work after retirement as a mediator and as a senior judge, filling in at the district court level as needed.
"I also plan on renewing old acquaintances and becoming more involved in service to my family, church and our community," he said.
Gov. Norm Bangerter appointed Payne to the bench in 1987. Payne has served as chairman of the Justice Court Standards Committee and has twice served as chairman of the Board of District Court Judges. In 1990, the Utah State Bar named him Circuit Court Judge of the Year, and in 1992, he was awarded an Amicus Curiae Award by the state's justice court judges.
Nancy Volmer, spokeswoman for the Utah State Courts, said an announcement will be made in the near future seeking applicants for Payne's replacement. Applications will be screened by the 8th District Nominating Committee, which will refer five candidates to Gov. Gary Herbert for consideration. Herbert will then name an appointee, who must be confirmed by the state Senate before taking the bench.
— Geoff Liesik