Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr.'s pick for 3rd District judge passed a major confirmation hurdle Monday. The seven-member Judicial Confirmation Committee unanimously recommended Vernice Trease to the full Senate for a vote.

The committee members asked Trease a wide variety of questions ranging from her beliefs about gun control issues to her ability to utilize Utah's death penalty.

Trease said her role will be to follow and apply the law, not to legislate it. She said she intended to be open-minded and fair.

Sen. Greg Bell, R-Fruit Heights, said he was impressed by Trease's credentials and recommendations.

Trease has worked with the Salt Lake Legal Defender's Association for nearly two decades. Recently, she helped represent Brian David Mitchell, who has been charged with kidnapping Elizabeth Smart.

If confirmed by the full Senate, Trease will succeed Judge Dennis Fuchs.