Committee Membership
The Chief Justice appoints members of the UTCR Committee to staggered three-year terms and members may serve two terms (for a total of six years). Members of the committee are selected from circuit court judges, practicing attorneys (civil and criminal), and trial court administrators. Selection is undertaken in a thoughtful and intentional way to ensure there are diverse perspectives on the committee. This means the following is considered when selecting new members:
- Diversity of profession;
- Geographic diversity; and
- Subject matter expertise.
In practice, this means that, for example, two attorneys from the same law firm, or two judges from the same judicial district, would not be appointed to serve on the committee at the same times. Similarly, an effort may be made to find qualified applicants from a region of Oregon that is currently underrepresented on the committee.
Vacancy & Application Process
When a vacancy occurs, committee members will suggest potential new members and a notice will be posted on this website and in the Oregon State Bar Bulletin. Potential new members may apply by sending a resume and letter of interest to the UTCR Reporter. The UTCR Reporter will provide these application materials to the Chief Justice for their consideration and appointment. Required qualifications (and things to consider before applying) include whether an individual has:
- Understanding of rules of procedure and experience with the rulemaking process.
- Experience with the court system and/or litigation.
- Ability to read a substantial volume of existing and proposed changes to SLR and UTCR prior to attending annual meetings and willingness to serve on subcommittees throughout the year as needed.
- Three to five years of experience supporting the skills and knowledge required to fulfill committee responsibilities.
- Ability to work collaboratively with judges, attorneys, and trial court administrators.