The PJC is having its 2009 biennial conference at the Fiesta Resort & Spa, Oct. 25–29.
The first day’s general session included a presentation by Richard Zorza, a national figure on the topic of self-represented litigants and coordinator of the Self-represented Litigation Network. His speech was entitled “The Challenges of Engagement and Neutrality for Judges and Courts.”
In the afternoon an interactive discussion was similarly focused on handling pro se (self-represented) litigation in the courtroom with emphasis on proven strategies.
Participating panelists included CNMI Judge Kenneth Govendo, CNMI Judge Ramona V. Manglona, Palau Senior Judge E. Remengesau-Rudimch, Palau Justice Kathleen M. Salii, Guam Judge Anita Sukola, Pohnpei Judge Dennis Yamase with Richard Zorza, presiding.
In general business of the council, executive board member elections were held.
Demapan was again elected president of the Pacific Judicial Counsel. Chief Justice Camillo Noket from Chuuk was elected vice president. Chief Justice F. Michael Kruse from American Samoa and Chief Judge Frances Tydingco-Gatewood of the U.S. District Court of Guam were elected secretary and treasurer.
Today, Yap Chief Justice Cyprian Manmaw is the master of ceremonies.
The day begins with Michael Keasler’s address entitled “Judicial Ethics.” Keasler is a judge on the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals and a former faculty member of the National Judicial College.
Robert J. Torres, chief justice of the Guam Supreme Court, is the invited speaker and his address is entitled “Can We Have Competent, Ethical, and Courteous Lawyers in Court? A report on the Guam Bar initiative to establish an Inn of Court.”
