Hazleton is new Justice Court Judge in Blanding

by Rhett Sifford, Staff writer The San Juan County Nominating Commission has announced the appointment of the Honorable Lyon W. Hazleton II to fill the Blanding Justice Court vacancy. The position will replace Judge William Walker who resigned January 31, 2018.
Judge Hazleton was appointed to the San Juan County Justice Court in 1994 and the Monticello City Justice Court in 1999.
With the new appointment, Hazleton is the judge in all three justice courts in San Juan County.
He graduated with an Associate of Science degree from the College of Eastern Utah.
In addition to completing education through the Administrative Office of the Courts, Hazleton also attended several courses through the National Judicial College in Reno, NV and received a Certificate in Legal Studies from the Utah Judicial Institute.
Hazelton served as education director for the Justice Court judges and Seventh District court clerks. He was awarded the Justice Court Service Award in 2001.
Hazelton has been an active volunteer member of San Juan County and Monticello City Emergency Services for almost 30 years. He also worked with the Boy Scouts and other youth programs.
Judge Hazelton was born and raised in Monticello, where he and his wife Janet raised five children.  He worked under contract with the Blanding Court since February 1, but said he’s looking forward to being sworn in on a full-time basis.
In his 24 years as a judge Hazelton said he has experienced much disappointment, since he regularly sees people at their worst.  But he said there are good times also, specifically when he is able to help people improve their lives.  Many have returned to express thanks, and he said that makes his job worthwhile.
Blanding Mayor Joe B Lyman said that Hazelton’s appointment will immediately provide a more efficient way to run the courts and offer better service to San Juan County.
Lyman said Hazelton is eminently qualified for the appointment to the Blanding court.  Lyman added that Hazelton has a stellar reputation and is well respected in the community.
According to Lyman, Hazelton was very supportive of the Blanding court while filling in for seven months and he has earned the opportunity to serve full-time.
Judge Lyon Hazelton is in the second year of a six-year term.