City of Grantsville v. Tooele City
Utah Supreme Court
2010 UT 38, 233 P.3d 461
Standing–or the right to pursue a suit–is a jurisdictional requirement that must be established before a court will consider a controversy.
Traditional standing is established when a petitioning party alleges that it has suffered or will suffer a distinct and palpable injury that gives it a personal stake in the outcome of a legal dispute, and a legally protectable interest in the controversy.
If a party cannot establish “traditional” standing, alternative standing may be established if the party is (1) an appropriate party to bring suit, and (2) the issue being presented is of sufficient public importance to balance the absence of traditional standing criteria.
An appropriate party is one that has the interest necessary to effectively assist a court to develop and review all relevant legal and factual questions.