AGENCY: District Court (First District)

SERIES: 10035
TITLE: Minute books
DATES: 1851-1896.
ARRANGEMENT: Chronological.

DESCRIPTION: This series is made up of minute books which record the official acts and proceedings of court terms held in the first judicial district while sitting in county seats throughout the district. These records were created and maintained by the court clerk, who was required by state statute to keep a minute book (Compiled Laws of Utah, 1876, sections 1062 and 1065).

The minutes are a daily record of documents filed and actions taken with regard to every matter brought before each session of the court, largely regarding documents submitted, appearances before the court, and orders issued. The minutes encompass both criminal and civil cases, including probate matters such as estates, guardianship, and adoption. Suits to recover money owed to plaintiffs are a predominant type of civil action. Others include naturalization, divorce, voluntary withdrawal or dissolution of corporations, and petitions for a writ of habeas corpus. Criminal matters may involve larceny, trespass, burglary, robbery, assault, battery, rape, prostitution, sodomy, gambling, narcotics, riot, perjury, or murder.

RETENTION

DISPOSITION

RETENTION AND DISPOSITION AUTHORIZATION

These records are in Archives' permanent custody.

FORMAT MANAGEMENT

Paper: Retain in State Archives permanently after microfilming.

Microfilm master: Retain in State Archives permanently.

Microfilm duplicate: Retain in State Archives permanently.

APPRAISAL

Administrative Historical Legal

Disposition based on the historical value of the minute books as documentation about individuals, legal procedure, court history and functions. Minute books have legal and administrative value to the court through dismissal or satisfaction of the final judgment. Because they enforce or protect private rights and prevent or redress private wrongs, the value of the judge's decrees and final judgments to parties in any action may extend well into the future.

PRIMARY DESIGNATION

Public. Public.