Hawaiʻi Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald delivered his eighth and final State of the Judiciary Address on Thursday during a joint session of the State Senate and House in Honolulu.
Chief Justice Recktenwald shared several significant achievements made by the state judiciary with support from the Legislature and community partners. These accomplishments include ranking sixth nationally in the Justice Index rating for access to justice, constructing the Keahuolū Courthouse in Kona, and launching new programs such as a Veterans Court, Community Outreach Court, and Environmental Court.
“As I prepare to pass the torch to the next generation of judiciary leaders, I am pleased to report that the Judiciary is strong, resilient and thriving,” said Recktenwald. He will retire later this year upon reaching Hawaiʻi's mandatory retirement age of 70 for judges and justices.
The Chief Justice also emphasized the Women's Court program, which employs a team approach to assist women in the criminal justice system in finding positive paths forward. Additionally, he mentioned a partnership with the Department of Education and the Attorney General’s office aimed at reducing chronic absenteeism in schools.
Recktenwald further highlighted how the Judiciary responded to challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and addressed issues arising from the Maui fires on August 8, 2023.
In conclusion, Chief Justice Recktenwald expressed gratitude towards individuals and organizations that have supported initiatives enhancing justice administration for Hawaiʻi residents.