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, […]
What Happens After a Domestic Violence Arrest in Utah?
What to Expect After a Domestic Violence Arrest in Salt Lake City Being arrested for domestic violence in Utah can turn your life upside down in hours. From the moment you’re placed in handcuffs, a complex legal process begins involving booking, protective orders, court hearings, and possible enhanced charges. Understanding what happens next is critical […]
Can Consent Be Used as a Defense in Utah Sexual Assault Cases?
Consent can play a role in defending against sexual assault charges in Utah, but it is far from a universal shield. Utah law sets out specific circumstances under which consent is legally invalid, and the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the sexual act occurred without the alleged victim’s consent. Understanding how Utah […]
Is a Protective Order the Same as a Restraining Order in Utah?
If you are facing domestic violence charges in Salt Lake City, you may have heard "restraining order" and "protective order" used interchangeably. While some use "restraining order," the official legal term in Utah is "protective order." Understanding this distinction can help you make informed decisions about your defense, whether dealing with a civil order or […]
What Is Constructive Possession in a Utah Drug Case?
Constructive possession is a legal doctrine that allows prosecutors to charge someone with a drug offense even when the controlled substance was not physically on their person. In Utah, the state can pursue drug charges if it believes you knew about a controlled substance and had the ability and the intent to exercise dominion and […]
Can a Drug Trafficking Charge Be Reduced in Salt Lake City?
Yes, under certain circumstances, a drug trafficking charge in Salt Lake City may be reduced. Utah law organizes drug offenses into distinct categories and penalty tiers based on substance type, criminal history, and alleged conduct. This structure creates potential pathways for reductions through plea negotiations, evidentiary challenges, and alternative sentencing tools like a plea in […]