Governor appoints Sharon Sipes to 2nd District Juvenile Court

Gov. Gary Herbert has appointed Sharon S. Sipes to fill a vacancy on the 2nd District Juvenile Court bench.

"Sharon is a prime example of the power of determination, hard work, and the importance of education. She began her working career in a print shop and retail, and is now being appointed as a judge," said Herbert in a Tuesday press release. "Having dedicated her legal career to working in child welfare and the juvenile court system, I'm honored to appoint her to serve as a judge."

"I am humbled and proud that Governor Herbert finds me deserving of his trust... ," said Sipes in the press release. "I look forward to joining the other dedicated jurists in the juvenile courts across this state who commit themselves to serving our children and families."

Sipes has operated her own private practice since 1998 with the Law Office of Sharon S. Sipes in Ogden with the focus of providing indigent defense in juvenile court. Since 2004, she has worked with Parental Defense Alliance in providing education and support to attorneys practicing in juvenile court and child welfare. In addition, she has served as a public defender and worked in personal injury litigation.

Sipes passed the Utah State Bar in 1994 after finishing her law degree at the University of Utah. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science from Westminster College. She is also a Certified Child Welfare Law Specialist from the National Association of Counsel for Children.

Sipes is appointed to the position held by Judge Paul Iwasaki who retired Sept. 16.

The 2nd District Court covers Weber, Davis and Morgan counties.

Judicial appointments are subject to confirmation by the Utah State Senate.