Judge Tony Graf of Utah’s Fourth District Court is handling a significant case involving the death of Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist. Graf, appointed less than a year ago, is evaluating evidence in a hearing to decide if a trial should proceed against the accused, Tyler Robinson.
Graf’s appointment came in August 2025, when Governor Spencer Cox selected him to fill a judicial vacancy. Before becoming a judge, Graf served as a prosecutor in Davis County and Utah County, where Kirk was killed. Governor Cox praised Graf for his ethical standards and judgment.
Graf’s educational background includes a bachelor’s and law degree from the University of Utah and a master’s degree in criminal justice from Weber State University.
Since joining the bench, Graf has overseen cases involving child sexual abuse and threats against officials, including Governor Cox. The current hearing for Kirk’s case started on Monday and will continue through the week.