Wildman Withdraws as Maui Judicial Nominee

By Wendy Osher

Joseph L. Wildman, courtesy photo.

The Governor’s judicial selection to the Second Circuit court on Maui has withdrawn his nomination. Joe Wildman cited “an unresolved situation” with his law firm as his reason to forgo consideration to the post.

“I have decided to withdraw my nomination to prevent any distraction for the Abercrombie Administration and disruption for my family,” said Wildman in a statement today. Wildman expressed gratitude to the Governor for the opportunity to serve.

Governor Neil Abercrombie accepted Wildman’s request saying, “I’m sorry that Joe won’t be serving the people of Hawai’i as Judge of the Circuit Court.” He continued, “There are other very qualified individuals recommended by the Judicial Selection Commission, and I will be making a selection soon.”

The vacancy was created with the retirement of Judge Joel August on March 18, 2011.

Circuit Court judges are appointed to 10-year terms by the Governor from a list of between four and six nominees provided by the Judicial Selection Commission.