Associate Justice Vladimir P. Devens was sworn in as the sixth Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of Hawaiʻi on May 5, with Acting Chief Justice Sabrina S. McKenna administering the oath during an informal ceremony.
Devens now serves as the administrative head of the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary, overseeing court operations statewide. The appointment is part of a judicial system that emphasizes diversity and inclusivity to ensure fair administration of justice for Hawaii’s diverse communities, according to the official website.
“With gratitude to Governor Josh Green for his nomination and the Hawaiʻi State Senate for its confirmation, and to all who encouraged and supported me, I am deeply honored to serve as Chief Justice,” said Chief Justice Devens. “Stepping into this role, I will build upon the strong foundation established by those who have come before me, including Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald and Acting Chief Justice Sabrina McKenna. The people who make up our Judiciary work diligently to ensure that our courts are steadfast, fair, and accessible to all. I want to recognize the important role judiciary employees play in upholding the public’s trust in the rule of law, and I look forward to continuing our work together, along with our governmental and community partners, in service to the people of Hawaiʻi.”
Justice McKenna congratulated Devens on his new position: “Chief Justice Devens has been an active, productive, and valued member of the court since joining us in January 2024,” McKenna said. “He has authored 15 published opinions, including 11 majority opinions. He has overseen the Judiciary’s efforts on the responsible incorporation of artificial intelligence into our work; and he has served as our court’s liaison to various important boards and commissions… His background and broad range of experiences will be invaluable as he addresses current and future issues facing the Judiciary and our State.” She added: “I am confident that Chief Justice Devens will lead with integrity, fairness, and a deep commitment to the people of Hawaiʻi. I look forward to supporting him and the courts as we continue our important work.”
The Hawaii State Judiciary manages courts across multiple circuits serving islands such as Oʻahu, Maui,and Kauaʻi through a structure organized by circuits; judges are appointed via a process involving both gubernatorial selection for appellate positions or circuit courts—with terms lasting ten years—and confirmation by Hawaii’s Senate,according to its official website.
Chief Justice Devens is a graduate of Kalani High School who earned his undergraduate degree magna cum laude from University of California Berkeley before receiving his Juris Doctor from UC Berkeley School of Law where he served as Associate Editor for Industrial Relations Law Journal.
A formal investiture ceremony will be held at a later date.
