On September 10, 2024, after a three-day bench trial, the Honorable Kevin T. Morikone entered a half-million dollar judgment against the State of Hawaii for gross negligence in connection with its administration of the foster care system. A year later, on September 19, 2025, the State of Hawaii moved to seal the trial exhibits on which the judgment was based. The trial exhibits include Department of Human Services records, Family Court records, and service provider reports. On October 8, 2025, Public First opposed the State of Hawaii’s motion to seal. Judge Morikone granted in part and denied in part the motion to State’s motion to seal trial exhibits.
- State Motion to Seal (9/19/25)
- Plaintiff’s Position Statement (10/6/25)
- Public First Opposition (10/8/25)
- State’s Reply (10/16/25)
- Order regarding Motion to Seal (11/3/25)