A justice on the Utah Supreme Court has stepped down following accusations of an affair with a lawyer involved in a case about the state’s congressional mapping.
In a communication to Governor Spencer Cox, Justice Diana Hagen expressed her “deep sadness” over her resignation, stating that it was made “with deep love and respect” for her fellow justices.
“It is with profound sadness that I submit my resignation as a Utah Supreme Court Justice, effective immediately,” Hagen said in her statement. “I do this out of deep love and respect for my colleagues on the court, who are not just exceptional jurists but also dedicated public servants. I sincerely regret any disruption my abrupt departure may cause to the court and those involved with it.”
Hagen’s resignation comes about a month after allegations emerged regarding a “possible relationship” between her and David Layman, the former lead attorney for the League of Women Voters in Utah’s redistricting efforts, according to 2KUTV News.
While Hagen “has previously denied any conflict of interest” and stepped back from all cases involving Layman in May 2025, reports indicate that the Commission on Judicial Conduct launched an independent inquiry following a complaint that was later submitted.
Her resignation occurs nearly a month after allegations regarding her relationship with Layman, who had contended that the congressional maps suggested by Republicans were illegal.
Hagen has denied any conflicts and mentioned that her last involvement with the redistricting case was in October 2024. In May 2025, she voluntarily recused herself from any litigation associated with Layman. She noted that her withdrawal was acknowledged in the court’s opinion on September 15, 2025.
“Throughout the last 30 years, I have worked hard to build a reputation for professionalism, fairness, and integrity,” Hagen added. “In my career as a prosecutor and during my nine years on the bench, I have unwaveringly upheld my oath to the Constitution and the ethical standards of my profession.”
In April, Cox, along with Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz and Utah Senate President J. Stuart Adams, “initiated an investigation” into the allegations against Hagen regarding her relationship with Layman.
