Family Court Judge James Rouse, Second Circuit (Maui) District, was named 2026 Jurist of the Year, honored in part for his understanding of the human element of every case.
Rouse was recognized for his respectful treatment of every litigant in his courtroom, where he routinely demonstrates empathy, compassion and respect, a news release said.
The award was announced at the Judiciary’s recent statewide employee awards ceremony in the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court courtroom.
Chief Justice Vladimir P. Devens said Rouse is especially skilled in working with individuals with mental illness and connecting with young people: “He offers encouragement, motivation and a sense of being seen, heard and valued.”
The Jurist of the Year is selected annually by the Chief Justice from nominations submitted by Hawaiʻi attorneys and Judiciary employees.
Rouse has been a District Family Court judge since March 2021. Before that, he was a deputy attorney general in the family law division, a deputy public defender for 19 years and an attorney in private practice focusing on family and criminal law.
The Judiciary also presented individual and group awards to employees who have distinguished themselves through exceptional service and accomplishments.
Distinguished Service Award (the Judiciary’s highest employee award): Susan Gushiken, Judicial Assistant to Circuit Court Judge Peter T. Cahill, Second Circuit
Group Meritorious Service Award: Uniform Disposition Entry Program Team: Mojtaba Abolfazli, Jennifer Awong, Kao-Wei Chua, Adam Cohen, Sharon Iwai, Emerita Mateo-Dias, Julie Okamoto, Karol Sakumoto, Kristi Tanaka, Krista Thom
Spirit of the Judiciary Award: Selma Matsunami, Facilities Management Branch, Third Circuit-Hilo; and Roselani Kaluahine, Client Services Division, Fifth Circuit
Certificate of Commendation: Norma Celestino Ringrose, Facilities Management Branch, Second Circuit; and Ariel Maeda, Application Project Management Branch, Information Technology & Systems Department
Group Certificate of Commendation: ʻEwa District Court Clerks: Julie Domingo, Simone Hagemann, Debra-Anne Nagatani, Sue Okimoto, Jenna Leigh Saito, Penny Suan, Renna Tuupoina, Deanna Yamane; and District Court Clerks, Second Circuit: Tammy Kincaid, Danlyn Kapaku, Kezia Asao, Hāna Kraker, Precious Naleieha, Eunice Joy Patao, Suzette Pencerga, Brenda Franco-Rodriguez, Danielle Ronquillo, Dolgor Rosen, Teagan Waialeale
