Testimony splits on Sonia Toma’s nomination to Maui family court; opponents cite conflict of interest

The Senate Committee on Judiciary heard contested testimony on the nomination of Sonia Toma to the District Family Court of the Second Circuit (Maui County). Opponents told the committee her prior work as a deputy attorney general representing child welfare services raises a conflict of interest for a family court judgeship; supporters, including the Hawaii State Bar Association, said she is qualified and experienced.

Melody Rollnick (testifying in strong opposition) told senators that Toma’s prior role representing Child Protective Services means she would be presiding over the same agency she once advocated for. "That presents a clear conflict of interest and undermines the appearance of judicial neutrality," Rollnick said.

Michelle Lehi, speaking on Zoom, gave detailed testimony about her…