The Hawaii Supreme Court is considering when civil cases should be paused while defendants face criminal charges, in a case involving jailed defense contractor Martin Kao. The ruling could set precedent for how Hawaii courts handle overlapping civil and criminal proceedings.
- Former Navatek CEO Martin Kao is serving 10+ years for fraud and illegal campaign contributions while fighting a civil arbitration ruling.
- Kao argues he couldn’t defend himself in civil proceedings without risking his constitutional right to remain silent in criminal case.
- Hawaii Supreme Court is establishing new legal standards for when civil cases should be paused during criminal proceedings.
- The case involves a defense contractor company now called PacMar Technologies and investor claims of breach of fiduciary duty.
- Hawaii’s constitution provides stronger protections than federal law regarding self-incrimination rights.
Source: Hawaii Free Press
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