Judiciary

The Hawaii State Judiciary is the independent branch of state government that interprets and applies the law through the Supreme Court, Intermediate Court of Appeals, Circuit Courts, District Courts, and the Family Court. It resolves civil disputes, hears criminal cases, handles family law matters including divorce and child custody, and issues rulings that shape how statutes are applied statewide. The Judiciary also administers court programs such as drug courts, mental health courts, and mediation services.

The courts are where legal rights are enforced and disputes resolved; understanding their structure helps residents access the right court for civil claims, landlord-tenant issues, family matters, or traffic violations.