The deputy prosecutors assigned to Family Court are specialists in this area of law. This is to ensure a more sensitive and effective processing of cases involving a juvenile offender or a family member. Family Court juvenile proceedings are closed to the public and records are confidential. The Court is only able to release a limited amount of information of juvenile offenders, even to the victim.
Domestic violence is a serious problem in our community.
The County of Maui has therefore instituted a Domestic Violence Task Force to coordinate efforts. Task force members include the Prosecutor's Domestic Violence Unit, the police, and community groups such as Women Helping Women, and Child and Family Services. The Prosecuting Attorney's Office has created a special unit to prosecute domestic violence cases in a fair and timely manner. The counselor provides crisis counseling, support through the steps of prosecution, preparation for court testimony, and referral for financial assistance. The counselor also works closely with other community agencies that offer shelter and safety, group counseling, advocacy, and court accompaniment.