Hawaiʻi Supreme Court Associate Justice Sabrina S. McKenna recently visited Saipan in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and Guam. During her trip, she served as a volunteer justice pro tem for the CNMI Supreme Court, using her vacation time to fulfill this role.
Justice McKenna expressed her dedication to public service, stating, “It is an honor to be able to serve as a volunteer justice pro tem for the CNMI Supreme Court.” Her itinerary included meetings with the CNMI Judiciary Women Leaders group and discussions with CNMI justices on a case motion. She also presented a continuing legal education class titled "Territorial Constitutionalism: Is it Malpractice Not to Take Both Free Throws?" to members of the CNMI bar.
In addition to these activities, Justice McKenna participated in an oral argument in Tang v. Guo and took the opportunity to visit the Guam Supreme Court, where she met with local justices.
Reflecting on her experience, Justice McKenna noted, “It was fascinating to be able to learn some Marianas’ history and to have Chamorro and Carolinian expert historians guide me to historical sites on Saipan.” She highlighted that since 2004, appeals on federal law issues from the CNMI Supreme Court have been directed straight to the United States Supreme Court, aligning them with procedures followed by the 50 states.