Third District Court Judge John Nielsen has been selected by Utah Gov. Spencer Cox to serve as the state’s newest Supreme Court justice.

If confirmed by Utah’s Senate, Nielsen will replace Associate Chief Justice John Pearce , who was appointed to the court in November 2015. Pearce will retire on Dec. 1.

Cox reviewed seven nominees and said Nielsen “stood out immediately” during his announcement in the state Capitol’s Gold Room on Tuesday.

“I have no doubt that you will make this state proud,” Cox said.

The five justices on the state Supreme Court serve 10-year terms. The chief justice holds the position for four years, while the associate chief justice serves for two.

Chief Justice Matthew Durrant supportive of Nielsen’s nomination

Before Nielsen addressed reporters, Chief Justice

See Full Page