SENATOR RHOADS PRAISES CONFIRMATION OF EIGHT JUDGES STATEWIDE, INCLUDING NEW CHIEF JUDGE OF INTERMEDIATE COURT OF APPEALS

News Release Hawaiʻi State Senate, April 30, 2025

HONOLULU – Senator Karl Rhoads (District 13 - Dowsett Highlands, Pu‘unui, Nu‘uanu, Pacific Heights, Pauoa, Punchbowl, Pālama, Liliha, Iwilei, Chinatown, and Downtown), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today praised the Hawai‘i State Senate’s confirmation of eight judges across the state — including Judge Karen T. Nakasone as Chief Judge of the Intermediate Court of Appeals (ICA). 

“This is a strong group of judicial confirmations that reflects the depth of legal talent in Hawai‘i,” said Senator Rhoads. “I’m especially pleased to see Judge Nakasone take on the role of Chief Judge. Her deep understanding of the law and long-standing service make her an outstanding choice to lead the ICA.” 

The ICA, Hawai‘i’s second-highest court, hears most appeals from trial courts and state agencies. Its decisions — often involving complex legal questions — may be reviewed by the Hawai‘i Supreme Court.  Judge Nakasone has served on the ICA since 2020 as an Associate Judge and nine years prior as a circuit court judge. 

In addition to Judge Nakasone, the Senate confirmed the following individuals:

· Karin L. Holma – Circuit Court Judge, First Circuit (Oʻahu) 

· Taryn R. Tomasa Gifford – Circuit Court Judge, First Circuit (Oʻahu) 

·  Kauanoe A. D. Jackson – Circuit Court Judge, Third Circuit (Hawaiʻi Island) 

·  Maria F. Penn – District Family Court Judge, First Circuit (Oʻahu) 

·  Wilson A. Unga – District Family Court Judge, First Circuit (Oʻahu) 

·  Sonya H. Toma – District Family Court Judge, Second Circuit (Maui) 

·  Rochelle I. Vidinha Cusumano – District Court Judge, First Circuit (Oʻahu) 

Judges Jackson and Toma were confirmed on April 22; the remaining confirmations were approved by the Senate on April 30. 

“These judges bring diverse experience, a shared commitment to fairness, and deep knowledge of Hawai‘i’s communities,” Rhoads added. “The Judiciary is in strong hands.” 

Court Overview:

·  Circuit Courts hear major criminal and civil cases, including felonies, probate, and civil matters over $40,000. They also preside over jury trials. 

·  Family Courts address cases involving children and families — from adoption and divorce to guardianships and domestic violence. 

·  District Courts handle traffic infractions, misdemeanors, small claims, landlord-tenant disputes, and restraining orders. 

These appointments were made earlier this month, reinforcing Hawai‘i’s ongoing commitment to a fair, independent judiciary that reflects the people it serves.  Per the Hawaiʻi Constitution, Governor Josh Green made the appointments to the ICA and circuit courts and Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald made the appointments to the district and district family courts.  

FOR PHOTOS AND HEADSHOTS OF SOME OF THE NEWLY-CONFIRMED JUDGES, CLICK HERE.