Prior to joining Nelson Jones in August of 2016, J.C. enjoyed extensive careers as a Paramedic and Law Enforcement Officer. Although the practice of law is J.C.’s primary focus, he still finds time to maintain and work as a Nationally Registered Paramedic, Utah certified Paramedic, and Nevada Licensed Flight Paramedic. Additionally, he maintains and works as a certified Utah Law Enforcement Officer where he has served in the capacities of Deputy Sheriff/Paramedic, SWAT Operator, Breacher, Scout, and Sniper, Adjunct Instructor, and where he currently works as a Patrol Officer. J.C. brought to Nelson Jones an in-depth understanding of the law enforcement dynamic, a prominent rapport with Law Enforcement Officers and their administration throughout the state, as well as first-hand experience of the complexities related to divorce. J.C. specializes in the administrative and criminal representation of Law Enforcement Officers as well as family law related matters.
Palmer v. St. George City Council, St. George Police Department, Et Al., 2018 UT App 94. Synopsis: a police sergeant was suspended for 40 hours without pay for allegedly violating agency policy. The sergeant challenged the suspension and asked that the city provide access to records that would show whether the punishment imposed was proportional and consistent with discipline handed down other employees. The city denied this request. Held: municipal agencies cannot deny employees access to comparative discipline files necessary to challenge disciplinary decisions before appeals boards. Further, the Appeals Board violated the employee’s due process rights by failing to make factual findings that would explain its decision. Outcome: the employee’s suspension was set aside and the case was remanded for a new appeals hearing.
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