WAIMEA — There’s a new figure in the black robe at the combined District/Family Court in Waimea.
M. Kalani Laubach was sworn in as the newest Hawaii Island District Family Court judge Wednesday afternoon during a ceremony held at the North Hawaii town’s courthouse off Kamamalu Street. She will oversee cases originating in North and South Kohala, and Hamakua.
Reaching the bench is part of a journey that includes serving as a prosecutor and defense counsel, volunteering more 300 hours of aid at self-help centers and serving as Hawaii County Bar Association vice president. She was first admitted to the state bar in 2003, working on Oahu before serving as a prosecuting attorney on the Big Island from 2006-10. She opened her own practice in 2011.
However, she’s been devoted to the field since realizing being a lawyer would serve her personality well.
“You can argue for a living. You can talk and get paid to talk. I love to talk, this is the career for me,” she said.
Laubach was one of 25 applicants for the position, which opened when Melvin Fujino was appointed to Circuit Court, and the list of six forwarded to Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald that were “outstanding,” said Jackie Young, vice-chair of the judicial selection commission.
Some of the statements used to describe Laubach in nomination papers were “fearless, compassionate, trustworthy, knowledgeable,” able to reach consensus and a great leader, she said.
One thing that impressed Howard K. K. Luke, Hawaii State Bar Association vice president, was the letters received touting her abilities and giving reasons for her appointment.
The other attorneys “hold a lot of affection for you, they really like you,” he said, also noting she is well-respected by her peers.
Recktenwald appointed Laubach to the position in early June. The state Senate confirmed the appointment unanimously several weeks later. It carries a six-year term.
She brings a “wealth of experience,” Recktenwald said. He also praised her willingness to use new technology, noted that she gave her speech while referring to a tablet.
The Family/District position is “one of our most unique and challenging jobs in the judiciary,” said Recktenwald.
That’s because that judge simultaneously presides over district court and family court. Both have their own challenges and rules, he said.
Fujino also mentioned the special nature of his former position.
“People take ownership of you as their judge,” he said.
Laubach said she finds the prospect “exciting” and in some ways a continuation of her current practice. There, she is already working on cases in both courts.
Laubach’s husband, David, said he always knew she would be a judge “since she passed the bar.” It’s been a lifelong goal for her.
Despite the move, he doesn’t see their life changing a whole lot, as the hours will remain the same.
“The homework (will be) a little more rough on me now,” he said.