Utah AG’s David Sonnenreich retires after four decades shaping state antitrust law

Derek Brown, Attorney General of Utah
Derek Brown, Attorney General of Utah
0Comments

David Sonnenreich, director of the Antitrust and Data Privacy Division at the Office of the Utah Attorney General, is retiring after more than two decades with the office and a legal career spanning 40 years. Sonnenreich has held several leadership roles, including division director, section director, and deputy attorney general for special assignments.

During his tenure, Sonnenreich managed a wide range of legal matters involving federal and state litigation, criminal and civil enforcement, jury and bench trials, appellate arguments, and complex evidentiary proceedings. He specialized in areas such as antitrust law, data privacy, securities enforcement, cybercrime, elder fraud, and procurement law. Notably, he led the creation of the Utah White Collar Crime Offender Registry.

Sonnenreich played key roles in significant cases such as Ohio v. American Express—a major national antitrust case—and Pelt v. Utah, recognized as the longest-running class action in Utah history. He also served as lead counsel for Utah in Utah v. Google; a $700 million settlement in that case is currently awaiting final court approval.

Beyond litigation work, Sonnenreich contributed to policy development on privacy and cybersecurity issues in Utah. He chairs the Utah Privacy Commission and has been a voting member of the Utah Cybersecurity Commission. His expertise was shared nationally through lectures at events like the 2024 ABA Antitrust Conference.

In recognition of his service to public-sector law practice nationwide, Sonnenreich received this year’s National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG) Career Staff Award. He previously earned both Attorney of the Year (2014) and Attorney of the Quarter awards from his office.

The Office highlighted his role as a mentor: “David’s impact extends far beyond his casework. He has been a trusted mentor, a steady source of institutional knowledge, and a model of public service to countless attorneys and staff across the office.”

“His dedication, intellect, and leadership have helped shape Utah’s legal landscape for more than three decades,” according to an official statement from the Office.

The Office concluded its announcement by expressing gratitude: “The Office of the Utah Attorney General extends its deepest thanks to David Sonnenreich for his extraordinary service to the State of Utah. His commitment to justice, his expertise, and his unwavering professionalism have strengthened our office and enriched our state.”



Related

Chief Justice Matthew B. Durrant

Justice court vacancy announced for Salt Lake City

A new full-time justice court judge position has been announced for Salt Lake City following approval by the Utah Judicial Council. Applications are open until May 29 with strict eligibility requirements set out by state law.

Chief Justice Matthew B. Durrant

Three finalists announced for Fourth District Court commissioner vacancy in Utah

Three finalists have been named for a commissioner vacancy in Utah’s Fourth District Court following Commissioner Marla R. Snow’s retirement. Public comments are being accepted until May 4 before a final selection is made by district judges and approved by the Judicial Council.

Justice Diana Hagen

Utah Supreme Court addresses allegations involving Justice Diana Hagen

The Utah Supreme Court has addressed recent media coverage regarding allegations against Justice Diana Hagen. Officials confirmed that an independent investigation found no misconduct after reviewing her actions surrounding a high-profile case.

Trending

The Weekly Newsletter

Sign-up for the Weekly Newsletter from Utah Courts Daily.