How HB 539 Changes Predominant Aggressor Rules in Utah
HB 539 and Domestic Violence Utah Penalties: Why Utah’s Predominant Aggressor Rule Just Got Broader Key Takeaways: HB 539 broadens Utah’s domestic violence arrest analysis by changing "predominant physical aggressor" to "predominant aggressor," giving officers more latitude when both parties make accusations. The law requires police to evaluate each complaint separately and consider prior complaints, […]
Is Recreational Marijuana Still Illegal in Salt Lake City in 2026?
Is Weed Legal in Utah? What Salt Lake City Residents Need to Know in 2026 Key Takeaways: Recreational marijuana remains illegal in Salt Lake City and throughout Utah as of 2026. Possession of even a small amount can lead to jail time and fines under Utah Code § 58-37-8. Utah’s medical cannabis program operates under […]
How Utah Enhances Misdemeanor DV Charges to Felonies
Is Domestic Violence a Felony in Utah? Understanding Charge Enhancements Key Takeaways: In Utah, domestic violence charges can escalate from misdemeanor to felony through a statutory enhancement system under Utah Code §77-36-1.1. That statute provides a 10-year lookback period for most offenses and a 5-year lookback period for property damage (criminal mischief) offenses, meaning prior […]
What Is the Romeo and Juliet Law in Utah?
Understanding the Romeo and Juliet Law in Utah If you or someone you care about is facing charges related to sexual activity with a minor in Utah, understanding the state’s close-in-age provisions could significantly impact the case outcome. Utah does not have a blanket "Romeo and Juliet law" that makes consensual sexual activity between young […]
Can a First-Time Drug Offense Be Dismissed in Utah in 2026?
Dismissing a First-Time Drug Offense in Utah: What You Need to Know in 2026 If you are facing a first-time drug charge in Utah, dismissal may be possible depending on your case circumstances, the substance involved, and your legal strategy. Utah law provides several pathways to dismissal or conviction reduction, particularly for individuals with no […]
Utah DUI Hit-and-Run Penalties Increase Under New HB 423 Law
Utah’s newest statewide DUI data and related 2026 legal developments make one point clear: a DUI case in Salt Lake City is rarely "routine." The Utah Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice’s 2025 DUI Annual Report says Utah courts disposed of 12,099 DUI-related cases in FY 2025, while the Utah Driver License Division continues to […]
5 Key Differences Between Simple and Aggravated DV in Utah
What Sets Simple and Aggravated Domestic Violence Apart in Utah If you are facing domestic violence charges in Salt Lake City, understanding the difference between simple and aggravated assault can shape your entire defense strategy. Utah law draws sharp lines between these offenses, and the classification directly affects potential penalties, your criminal record, and your […]
What Happens After a First-Time Drug Possession Arrest in Utah?
Facing a Drug Possession Charge in Utah for the First Time Getting arrested for drug possession in Salt Lake City can feel overwhelming, especially if you have never been in trouble with the law before. A first-time drug possession charge in Utah does not automatically mean jail time or a permanent criminal record, but consequences […]
What Is the Age of Consent in Utah and How Does It Affect Charges?
Understanding Utah’s Age of Consent and How It Shapes Criminal Charges If you are facing accusations related to sexual conduct with a minor in Utah, understanding the law is your first critical step. Under Utah law, the age of consent is effectively 18 years old. Utah Code § 76-5-401.2 criminalizes sexual conduct with a person […]
HB 423 Changes DUI Hearing Rules for Salt Lake City Cases in 2026
A new Utah DUI bill moved forward in late February 2026, affecting anyone arrested in or around Salt Lake City. On February 26, 2026, the Utah Senate Judiciary, Law Enforcement, and Criminal Justice Committee considered 2nd Sub. H.B. 423, titled Hit and Run and DUI Offense Amendments, sponsored by Rep. Steve Eliason. During that hearing, […]