Celebrating Judge David Hayakawa: A Journey from the Public Defender’s Office to the Bench

Each ascent to the bench is unique, and the path carved by David Hayakawa is no exception. It's a path paved with diligence and guided by the wisdom of benevolent mentors. Yet, what truly distinguishes Judge Hayakawa in my view, is the genuine respect and kindness he extends to everyone he meets.

Mr. Hayakawa has been contributing to charitable causes for over 20 years. I was just a young bail agent when he invited me to take part in a fundraising event for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. He has also played a pivotal role in the "Rock 4 Justice" fundraiser, which supports the University of Hawaii Law School's Advocates for Public Interest Law. The next "Rock 4 Justice" event is scheduled for November 9, 2023, at Artistry. If you're interested in making a contribution, please reach out to attorney Daniel Kawamoto.

Judge Hayakawa’s speech stood out in the legal tapestry, not just for his successful private practice, but for the shout outs he gave to the attorneys that helped him reach his goals. For example, family law firm Coates and Frey (pictured above) helped build a foundation for his successful independent family law career.

Attorneys like Howard Luke (pictured above), whom is on the Mount Rushmore of criminal defense attorneys in Hawaii, helped mold an up-and-coming David Hayakawa into one of the most successful attorneys ever to grace the specialties of family and criminal law.

Attorney Rick Sing, who in my view should strongly consider a judgeship himself, was also mentioned as instrumental to Judge Hayakawa’s success.  

The highest gratitude, the one that truly shaped the man we now know as 'Judge Hayakawa,' was deservedly given to his parents. During his speech, Judge Hayakawa touched the audience with heartfelt tributes, reminding us that the silent pillars in our lives who fuel our ambitions are often times our parents.

David Hayakawa's legacy is more than his cases won or the robe he now wears. It's in the respect he's shown to every person he's encountered along the way. As he dons his judicial robes, let's celebrate not just the new title he holds but the path he took to get there – paved with integrity, humanity, and a deep-rooted belief in treating all with fairness and honor.

Here’s to Judge Hayakawa – a name synonymous with justice, a career built on excellence, and a character sculpted by kindness.