The Hawaiʻi Supreme Court is set to hold an oral argument session in Hilo as part of its Courts in the Community program. The session will take place at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo Performing Arts Center on Thursday, April 17, 2025, from 10 to 11 a.m., with doors opening to the public at 9:30 a.m. Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald and Associate Justices Sabrina S. McKenna, Todd W. Eddins, Lisa M. Ginoza, and Vladimir P. Devens will preside.
William Heflin, the President of the Hawaiʻi County Bar Association, will serve as master of ceremonies and moderator. The Court will hear the case State of Hawaiʻi v. Charles Zuffante. Approximately 275 students from five local high schools will attend the session, gaining firsthand insight into the judicial process and understanding the judiciary's role in resolving disputes under the rule of law.
The program includes students from Hilo High School, Waiākea High School, Hawaiʻi Academy of Arts and Science Public Charter School, Connections Public Charter School, and Laupāhoehoe Community Public Charter School. This event serves as a valuable civics education opportunity.
The Judiciary Communication and Community Affairs Office will provide pictures and videos for interested media. Media representatives intending to film or photograph the argument must file an Application for Extended Coverage with the Supreme Court’s Office of the Chief Clerk, although pooling coverage requirements will be waived. However, photographing or filming the students' faces is prohibited.
The Chief Justice, along with selected students, will be available for on-camera interviews following the argument. More information on the case can be found on the Judiciary's website.