Since 1988, Utah's judges have run in uncontested retention elections. Legal experts say this was the best solution to avoid having judges run in contested elections where they may be influenced by people or groups who contribute to their election campaigns. National studies show there are indications of bias among judges in states where they run in contested elections.

After sifting through applicants, a nominating commission forwards candidates to Utah's governor. The governor then selects one nominee who must then be approved by a vote of the Utah Senate. Supreme Court justices serve 10-year terms, while appellate and district court judges serve six-year terms. All are then put up for retention elections at the end of their terms.

Task force co-chairman Sen. Chris Buttars, R-West Jordan, said he finds it "scary" that some voters decide to vote "no" on every judge without reason.

Statistics show that about 80 percent of voters vote "yes" to retain most judges.

Legislative studies of retention election results show the correlation between the amount of information voters have on judges and their voting record is not very solid. Some lawmakers worry many voters aren't even bothering to look at the information on judges.

In a series of six meetings, the task force will explore how to simplify the process to make it more voter-friendly.

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