SALT LAKE CITY (Aug. 11, 2026) — Gov. Spencer J. Cox has appointed Lance Talakai to serve as a judge in the Third District Juvenile Court, filling the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge David Johnson.

“Lance has spent his career serving people at some of the most consequential moments of their lives,” Gov. Cox said. “His extensive courtroom experience, including his work with serious youth offender cases, will serve Utah families well. I’m grateful for his willingness to take on this important responsibility.”

Talakai has worked as a defense attorney with the Salt Lake Legal Defender Association since 2012. During his 14 years with the association, he has represented clients in felony, misdemeanor and serious youth offender cases. He has also served in leadership roles, including as a felony team lead and co-misdemeanor chief, and has recruited, trained and supervised new attorneys.

“I am deeply humbled and honored to be appointed to serve as a juvenile court judge in the Third District,” Talakai said. “Having grown up in this district, I am especially grateful for the opportunity to serve the youth and families in the community that has been such an important part of my life.

“If confirmed, I will approach this responsibility with compassion, fairness and integrity. I am committed to serving with humility and ensuring that every young person and family who comes before the court is treated with dignity, respect and fairness.”

Before joining the Salt Lake Legal Defender Association, Talakai served as a law clerk for the Fourth District Court and worked with the Utah County Public Defender. He earned his law degree from Brigham Young University’s J. Reuben Clark Law School and a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

Talakai’s appointment is subject to confirmation by the Utah Senate.

A photo of Lance Talakai can be found here. 

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