Sen. Shimabukuro Recognized As Outstanding Woman Lawyer

The Hawaii State Senate recently recognized Sen. Maile Shimabukuro (center, with lei) for being named the 2012 Outstanding Women Lawyer. Photo courtesy of Senate Communications.

State Sen. Maile Shimabukuro recently was recognized by the Hawaii State Senate for being named the 2012 Outstanding Woman Lawyer. The Senate presented Shimabukuro with a Certificate of Recognition last month.

Shimabukuro, who represents District 21 (Kalaeloa, Honokai Hale, Ko Olina, Nanakuli, Maili, Waianae, Makaha, Makua) received the distinction from the Hawaii Women Lawyers (HWL).

HWL honors both women and men who have worked to improve the lives and careers of women in the legal community, influence the future of the legal profession, enhance the status of women and promote equal opportunities.

A graduate of the William S. Richardson School of Law and Colorado College, Shimabukuro has represented West Oahu for the last 10 years, beginning as a state representative for Waianae, Makaha and Makua. She has been serving District 21 as a senator since 2010.

Shimabukuro is an attorney at the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii, where she practices family, public benefits, housing and consumer law.

During last year’s Legislative session, Shimabukuro worked on a bill that would assist survivors of childhood sexual abuse through Act 68. The measure passed, thus extending the statute of limitations for civil actions by individuals who suffered sexual abuse as a minor.