Hawaii Senate Confirms Maui Judge Rhonda Loo

By Wendy Osher

Sen. J. Kalani English, Senate President Shan Tsutsui, Rhonda Iwalani Lai Loo and Sen. Roz Baker. Photo courtesy, Senate Communications.

The Hawaii State Senate today confirmed Judge Rhonda Iwalani Lai Loo, to the Second Judicial Circuit on Maui.

“Judge Loo is greatly respected in our community and has an impeccable record as a district court judge. It is a delight to have such a capable woman jurist continue to serve our County,” said Senator Roz Baker, who represents South and West Maui.

Loo earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Oregon, and her law degree from the William S. Richardson School of Law.

Loo, who is a native of Maui, began her career as a law clerk for the Honorable E. John McConnell before becoming a prosecutor for Maui County, a position she held for 9 years.

“Judge Loo’s career has been about public service and has demonstrated her dedication to the job,” said Senator J. Kalani English of Maui. “She will truly be an asset to the Circuit Court,” he said.

Prior to today’s confirmation, Loo served for 13 years as a district court judge, and currently serves as Deputy Chief Judge for the Second Circuit Court.

“Judge Loo is a person with great integrity and character and has been known to be extremely fair and thorough with her rulings,” said Senate President Shan Tsutsui. “We are honored to confirm her to Maui’s Circuit Court,” he said.

Loo was appointed by Gov. Neil Abercrombie to fill the vacancy left by the retirement of Judge Joel E. August.