Lawyers Provide Justice For All

By Hugh Jones
Wednesday - May 05, 2010 Share

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By Hugh Jones, Bar President
Hawaii State Bar Association

In 1989, I began working with the Attorney General’s office because of the opportunity to make a real impact on society. I’ve also been involved with the Hawaii State Bar Association for 20 years. But this year will be the most memorable: As the 2010 HSBA president, I am honored to be the first government lawyer elected to the post.

The HSBA has been supporting Hawaii’s legal community for more than 110 years. We currently serve more than 7,000 attorneys with the goal of uniting and inspiring Hawaii’s lawyers to promote justice for all.

Hundreds of volunteer attorneys conduct a variety of projects to benefit HSBA members and the public. Our Young Lawyers Division, for example, headed by Lisa Nakahara, recently sponsored the state high school Mock Trial competition, which teaches students about the legal process. Twenty teams competed statewide with lawyers serving as coaches and judges. The winning team from Moanalua High School will represent Hawaii in the national competition in May.

High school students plead their case before Intermediate Court of Appeals Associate Judge Daniel Foley during the state High School Mock Trial finals

Also in May, HSBA and YLD volunteers will celebrate Law Day with various activities. On Saturday, May 8, neighborhood legal clinics will be held at 13 locations across the state. Volunteers will be available to discuss legal issues and ways to access legal help with members of the public. Our Legal Hotline is available daily May 2-8 to take public calls regarding legal issues and access/recommendations. Find out more at www.hsba.org.

Only one quarter has gone by, but already we have been busy with community programs and more outreach efforts. Meanwhile, we’re implementing several regulatory requirements such as mandatory education programs and participating in judicial selections. My hope is that all lawyers - including government lawyers - will recognize the value of participating in HSBA’s programs and help the public better understand the important work they do.

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