By Bryan Manabat
[email protected]
Variety News Staff
THE Northern Marianas Bar Association on Wednesday released the results of its judicial evaluation survey, offering a detailed look at how active members of the legal community rate the qualifications and temperament of the three nominees Gov. David M. Apatang has selected to fill key vacancies in the Commonwealth’s courts.
The evaluation covers Presiding Judge Roberto C. Naraja, nominated to serve as associate justice of the Supreme Court; Associate Judge Joseph James N. Camacho, nominated for presiding judge of the Superior Court; and former Attorney General Joey P. San Nicolas, nominated as associate judge of the Superior Court.
The Bar said it received between 47 and 61 responses per nominee, representing participation rates of 29% to 39% of its 157 active members.
Respondents were also asked whether they support or oppose each nominee’s appointment.
According to the Bar, 67% of respondents recommended supporting Naraja, while 33% opposed his nomination. Camacho received support from 54% and opposition from 46%. San Nicolas garnered the strongest backing, with 76% support and 24% opposition.
On a five-point scale, San Nicolas earned the highest overall marks in legal ability (3.50) and communication skills (3.60). Naraja received the highest score in integrity and impartiality at 4.20, including a 4.43 rating for “treats people with dignity and respect.” Camacho’s scores were generally lower across categories, though he received a 3.70 rating for leadership in professional activities.
“This is an unprecedented moment for our courts with nominations for three different judicial vacancies,” said Bar Association President Gretchen A. Smith. “While the Senate conducts confirmation hearings, this data provides a vital snapshot of the legal community’s confidence. It is a resource not just for government officials, but also for the public, ensuring these historic transitions are met with informed oversight.”
The Bar said all “N/A” responses were excluded from calculations, and averages were derived only from valid numerical scores. The evaluation was conducted anonymously.
Because the CNMI uses a direct gubernatorial appointment system, the Bar said its assessment serves as the primary professional vetting mechanism before nominees appear for Senate confirmation.
Bryan Manabat was a liberal arts student of Northern Marianas College where he also studied criminal justice. He is the recipient of the NMI Humanities Award as an Outstanding Teacher (Non-Classroom) in 2013, and has worked for the CNMI Motheread/Fatheread Literacy Program as lead facilitator.
