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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 THE LONG-TERM CREDIT BANK OF JAPAN}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ,
\par Petitioner
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 v.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
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\par Respondent
\par ___________________________
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 IWAO NOMOTO; INTERNATIONAL TRADING NETWORK, LTD.;
\par ITN CORPORATION; EDUARDO A. CALVO; E.C. DEVELOPMENT;
\par ALBERT WONG; CAPITAL INVESTMENT GROUP LTD.;
\par LUXTON SERVICES, LTD; SUNBRIGHT MARSHALL ISLANDS;
\par SUNBRIGHT PALAU; EIE AMERICAN CO., LTD.; HENSHAW GROUP
\par LIMITED; EIE DEVELOPMENT (HONG KONG) LTD.; EIE GUAM
\par CORPORATION; and JOHN DOES 1-20 INCLUSIVE,}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par Real Parties in Interest.}{\insrsid13370390 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 OPINION}{\insrsid13370390 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Filed:}{\b\insrsid13370390  }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 May 16, 2003}{\insrsid13370390 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Cite as:}{\b\insrsid13370390  }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 2003 Guam 10}{\insrsid13370390 
\par 
\par }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Supreme Court Case No.: WRP03-002 
\par Superior Court Case No.: CV1365-99}{\insrsid13370390 
\par 
\par }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Original Proceeding in the Supreme Court of Guam
\par Argued and submitted on April 8, 2003
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam
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\par }\pard \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid13370390 {\ul\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Long-Term Credit Bank of Japan}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 :
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 G. Patrick Civille, }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Esq}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 .
\par Teker Civille Torres & Tang, PLLC\tab \tab 
\par Ste. 200, 330 Hernan Cortez Ave.\tab 
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910}{\insrsid13370390 
\par 
\par }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \cell 
\par }{\ul\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Appearing for the Respondent
\par }\pard \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid13370390 {\ul\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Superior Court of Guam}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 :
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Samuel J. Taylor, }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Esq}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 .
\par Staff Attorney
\par Superior Court of Guam
\par Guam Judicial Center 
\par 120 West O}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Brien Dr.
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910
\par 
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\par }\pard \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid13370390 {\ul\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 EIE Guam}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 :
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Rodney Jacob, }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Esq}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 .,
\par Arthur Clark, }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Esq.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par Calvo & Clark, LLP
\par Ste. 202, First Savings & Loan Bldg.\tab 
\par 655 S. Marine Dr.\tab 
\par Tamuning, Guam 96911
\par 
\par \cell 
\par }{\ul\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Appearing for the Real Party in Interest
\par }\pard \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid13370390 {\ul\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Capital Investment and Albert Wong}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 :
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Cesar Cabot, }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Esq}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 .
\par Law Offices of Cesar C. Cabot, P.C.
\par 2nd Flr., Bank Pacific Bldg.
\par 825 S. Marine Dr.
\par Tamuning, Guam 96911}{\insrsid13370390 
\par 
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\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\ul\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Iwao Nomoto, International Trading
\par }\pard \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid13370390 {\ul\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Network, Ltd., and ITN Corp.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 :
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 William Fitzgerald, }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Esq}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 .
\par c/o Paul A. Lawlor, }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Esq}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 .
\par Law Office of Paul A. Lawlor
\par Ste. 903, PNB\tab 
\par 238 Archbishop Felixberto Flores St.
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910\cell 
\par }{\ul\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 EC Dev. and Eduardo A. Calvo}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 :
\par Thomas M. Tarpley, Jr., }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Esq.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par Law Office of Thomas M. Tarpley
\par Ste. 201, American Life Bldg.
\par 137 Murray Blvd.
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910
\par 
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\par BEFORE: FRANCES M. TYDINGCO-GATEWOOD, Chief Justice (Acting)}{\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\cs15\super\insrsid15932629 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid15932629  Chief Justice F. Philip Carbullido recused himself from this matter. As the senior member of the panel, Justice Frances Tydingco-Gatewood was appointed Acting Chief Justice.}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ; JOHN A. MANGLONA, Justice }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Pro Tempore}{\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\super\insrsid15932629 2}{\fs20\insrsid15932629  At the time this matter was heard, Justice Manglona was a Designated Justice of this court.  His appointment has sin
ce expired and he was appointed Justice }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 Pro Tempore}{\fs20\insrsid15932629  prior to the issuance of this Opinion.  }}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ; RICHARD H. BENSON, Justice }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Pro Tempore}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 .}{\insrsid13370390 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 PER CURIAM:
\par }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [1]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab The Petitioner The Long-Term Credit Bank of Japan (}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Bank}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
) requests that this court issue a peremptory writ of prohibition, commanding the Respondent Superior Court of Guam to cease and desist from scheduling any matters in }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The Long-Term Credit Bank of Japan}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Ltd. v. Iwao Nomoto}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 et al.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
, Superior Court Case No. CV1365-99, before the Presiding Judge of the Superior Court, Alberto C. Lamorena, III.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The Bank ultimately seeks review of the lower court}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s decision denying the Bank}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s request to recuse the Presiding Judge from presiding over that matter.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
This court issued an Alternative Writ of Prohibition granting the requested relief, and ordered the Respondent to appear and show cause as to why a peremptory writ should not be issued in this case.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
We also allowed the Real Parties in Interest to brief the matter.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Upon due notice and hearing, and upon consideration of the papers, the court finds that a peremptory writ of prohibition shoul
d be issued to permanently restrain the Respondent from scheduling any matters in the above-mentioned proceeding before the Presiding Judge.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Accordingly, the Petition is hereby granted and the reasons are set forth herein.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 I.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [2]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab This case arises out of a motion presented by the Bank to disqualify Presiding Judge Alberto C. Lamorena, III (sometimes }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Judge Lamorena}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}
{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  or }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Presiding Judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ) from presiding over the case }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The Long-Term Credit Bank of Japan}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Ltd. v. Iwao Nomoto}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 et al.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , Superior Court Case No. CV1365-99.}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The relevant facts as set forth in the Petition are as follows: The underlying action (}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Nomoto Action}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
) was filed by the Bank against the Defendants (separately referred to as }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 EIE Guam}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  and }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Nomoto defendants}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
) to collect money which the Bank alleges was illegally transferred by EIE Guam to the Nomoto defendants.
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [3]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab The Nomoto Action involves a longstanding dispute between the parties over money for the construction of the Hyatt Hotel Guam (}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Hotel}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 In the early 1990}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s, EIE Guam was involved in the construction of the Hotel and, as a result, was entitled to profits from the Hotel under a profit distribution plan (}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Owner}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
s Profit Distribution}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
In 1994, as security for a construction loan from the Bank, EIE Guam executed a Security Agreement assigning its rights in the Owner}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s Profit Distribution to the Bank.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The Bank alleges that EIE Guam has refused to pay the Bank any portion of the Owner}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s Profit Distribution since mid-1995, and has transferred funds from the Distribution to the Nomoto defendants.
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [4]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab On August 2, 1995, EIE Guam filed a lawsuit in the Superior Court captioned }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 EIE Guam Corp. v. The Long-Term Credit Bank of Japan}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 et al.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , Case No., CV1190-95}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 (hereinafter }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 First Action}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The First Action was filed by EIE Guam to avoid payment of millions of dollars to the Bank and other banks involved in the construction of the Hotel.}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The Bank filed a counterclaim seeking to enforce the loans, guaranties and security agreements at issue in the suit, including its security interest in the Owner}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s Profit Distribution.}{\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid15932629 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid15932629  The action was removed to the District Court in 2000 a
nd is still pending resolution.  
\par }}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [5]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab The First Action was assigned to retired Chief Justice (then Superior Court Judge) Benjamin J. F. Cruz.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The Presiding Judge thereafter took the case from Judge Cruz and assigned it to himself.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 On April 2, 1996, Judge Lamorena }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 sua sponte }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 filed a Memorandum titled }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Disqualification to Sit on CV1190-95,}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  recusing himself from the case under Title 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6105 and 6108.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 In the Memorandum, he stated: 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 In reviewing the memorandum and affidavits, I realized [sic] that I have received information regarding some facts of this case.}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par Civille Decl., Exhibit 5 (March 20, 2003).
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [6]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab The First Action was thereafter assigned back to Judge Cruz, who entered summary judgment in favor of EIE Guam against the Bank in 1996.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The decision was reversed by this court in 1998, and petitions for a writ of certiorari were thereafter denied by the Ninth Circuit in 1999 and the United States Supreme Court in 2000.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The case was remanded to the Superior Court, and due to Judge Cruz}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s appointment to the Guam Supreme Court, the case was assigned to Judge Joaquin V.E. Manibusan, Jr.
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [7]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab While the First Action was on appeal in 1999, the Bank allegedly discovered evidence that money from the Owner}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s Profit Distribution which EIE Guam assigned to the Bank was wrongfully converted, paid, and loaned to the Nomoto defendants.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 In order to preserve its causes of action, the Bank filed the instant underlying action, (the Nomoto Action), in the Superior Court.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The Nomoto Action was initially assigned to Judge Manibusan but was stayed upon motion of the Nomoto defendants until resolution of the appeals in the First Action.
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [8]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab After the conclusion of the appeals in 2000 and remand to the Superior Court, the First Action was removed to the District Court.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Thereafter, the stay was lifted in the Nomoto Action and EIE Guam and the Nomoto defendants filed their Answers to the Bank}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s Complaint and discovery commenced.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 In Ju
ly of 2000, the Bank filed a motion to stay the Nomoto Action until resolution of the First Action in the District Court.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The motion to stay was denied.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 However, on January 22, 2001, upon joint request of the parties, the lower court took the case off ca
lendar pending resolution of the First Action, which was set for trial in the District Court, or until any party requested that the case be placed on calendar.
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [9]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab Shortly before the First Action was to go to trial in the District Court, the 
Bank and all defendants entered into a Term Sheet for Settlement, which contemplated the settlement of both the First Action and the Nomoto Action.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The conditions of the Term Sheet were not met by the due date, and the settlement of the First Action did not close.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The parties to the First Action thereafter filed various motions in the District Court claiming violations of the Settlement Term Sheet.
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [10]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab Meanwh
ile, in the Superior Court, where the Nomoto Action was still pending, on December 20, 2001, the Nomoto defendants filed a motion to dismiss the Nomoto Action for failure to prosecute.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
At the time the motion to dismiss was filed, Judge Manibusan had since hired the daughter of one of the Nomoto defendants as his law clerk.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Based on this fact, the Bank made a request that Judge Manibusan disqualify himself from the case, which was granted.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [11]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab On March 5, 2002, the Bank learned that Presiding Judge Lamorena assigned the Nomoto Action to himself.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The following day, the Bank filed and served on the parties and Judge Lamorena an Objection to Hearing and Request for Recusal.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The Bank served a copy of the Request on Judge Lamorena by leaving a copy with his chamber clerk.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
During a hearing on March 6, 2002, Judge Lamorena acknowledged receipt of the Request for Recusal and informed the parties that he would refer it to a recusal judge.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Judge Lamorena thereafter instructed the parties to proceed with arguments on the Motion to Dismiss, but stated that he would not decide the Motion to Dismiss until after the recusal issue was decided.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [12]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab The Request for Recusal was assigned to Judge Steven Unpingco (}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 recusal judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ).}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The recusal judge ordered that supplemental statements regarding the recusal request be filed by April 25, 2002, and ordered Judge Lamorena to file an Answer within 10 days after that date.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Judge Lamorena filed an unverified Answer on May 24, 2002, which was past the due date given by the recusal judge.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [13]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab On February 24, 2003, the recusal judge heard arguments on the recusal motion}{\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid15932629 \chftn }{\insrsid15932629  }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 The recusal request was for all intents and purposes t
reated as a motion to recuse in the lower court and is reviewed as such in the present case before this court.}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 .}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
He denied the motion in a Decision and Order filed on March 19, 2003.}{\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid15932629 \chftn }{\insrsid15932629  }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 The grounds for denial are discussed later in this Opinion.}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [14]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab The Bank filed the instant Petition for Writ of Prohibition, and, or, Writ of Mandamus (}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Petition}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
) on March 20, 2003.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 In the Petition, the Bank requested that this court 
issue an alternative writ of prohibition, commanding the Respondent Superior Court to refrain from scheduling any matters before the Presiding Judge and instructing Judge Lamorena to cease and desist from presiding over and hearing any matters and taking 
further action in the Nomoto Action.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
On March 21, 2003, this court issued an Alternative Writ of Prohibition which arrested all proceedings and ordered the Respondent to show cause as to why a peremptory writ should not issue permanently enjoining the Supe
rior Court from scheduling proceedings in the Nomoto Action before Judge Lamorena. 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 II.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [15]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab This court has original jurisdiction to issue writs of prohibition pursuant to Title 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 3107(b) (1993) (}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [The Supreme Court}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
s] authority . . . includes jurisdiction of original proceedings for mandamus, prohibition, injunction, and similar remedies to protect its appellate jurisdiction and to effectuate its supervisory authority over the courts below.}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The qualification of a lower court judge to preside in a matter before that court is addressable under our jurisdictional grant to issue extraordinary writs because a determination of the issue is in aid of this court}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s appellate jurisdiction and relates to this court}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s supervisory authority over the Superior Court.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See Topasna v. Superior Court}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 1996 Guam 5, }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  5 (}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [T]he writ of prohibition aids this appellate jurisdiction of ours b
y preventing a useless appeal in the event of a conviction in a prosecution, presided over by a trial judge exercising a jurisdiction he does not possess.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ) (quoting }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Connelly v. United States Dist. Court}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 191 F.2d 692, 693 n.1 (9th Cir. 1951).}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Thus, a petition for writ of prohibition }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
may be used to review an order upholding the qualifications of a judge presiding over a trial.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Id}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 .}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
An order denying a request for recusal is appealable after final judgment; however, requiring a party to wait until after trial and judgment before challenging the denial of a recusal request leaves it }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 without a plain, speedy, adequate remedy.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Dizon v. Superior Court}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 1998 Guam 3, }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  6 (agreeing that a writ of prohibition was a proper channel for reviewing a denial of a motion to disqualify Presiding Judge Lamorena from presiding over a Superior Court case).}{
\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid15932629 \chftn }{\insrsid15932629  }{
\fs20\insrsid15932629 We recognize that the cases which this court has previously permitted a writ proceeding in lieu of an appeal were criminal cases.  The distinction here is that 
the Petitioner is not a criminal defendant.  We herein find that a writ proceeding is appropriate to review the denial of a recusal request even in a civil case where there similarly exists a need to guarantee a fair and impartial trial.  }{
\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 See Texaco, Inc. v. Chandler}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 , 354 F.2d 655, 657 (10th Cir. 1965)}{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629  }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 (}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 The jurisdiction of this court to take action to guarantee a fair and impartial trial is no longer open to question. Upon an adequate showing, this court has held that it has the }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 power and inescapable duty,}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{
\fs20\insrsid15932629  whether under the all writs statute, 28 U.S.C. }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
 1651, or under its inherent powers of appellate jurisdiction, }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
to effectuate what seems to us to be the manifest ends of justice.}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 ) (citations omitted).  Whether the underlying case is civil or criminal in nature, an appeal after final judgment is an inadequate remedy at law.  }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 See Keating v. Superior Court
}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 , 289 P.2d 209, 210 (Cal. 1955) (}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
Prohibition is a proper remedy to test whether a judge is disqualified where, as here, the facts are without substantial conflict. . . . The order striking the petition for a change of judge is not immediately reviewable by appeal, and an appeal fro
m a subsequent judgment is not an adequate remedy.}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
) (citations omitted).  We further note that a party seeking review of an interlocutory recusal decision may seek appellate review under this court}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}
}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 s interlocutory jurisdiction.  }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 See }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 Title 7 GCA }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
3108(b).  The procedure by way of an interlocutory appeal is arguably the better route.  Notwithstanding, a failure to seek interlocutory review does not preclude consideration of the instant Petition.  }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 
Alexander v. Primerica Holdings, Inc.}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 , 10 F.3d 155, 163 n.8 (3d Cir. 1993).}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 While review after final judgment can (at a cost) cure the harm to a litigant, it cannot cure the additional, separate harm to public confidence that [the recusal statute] . . . is designed to prevent.}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Alexander v. Primerica Holdings, Inc.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
, 10 F.3d 155, 163 (3d Cir. 1993) (citation omitted).
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 III.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 A.}{\b\insrsid13370390  }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Sufficiency of the Petition and Alternative Writ.
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [16]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab As an initial matter, the Respondent challenges the sufficiency of the Petition as well as the Alternative Writ of Prohibition issued by this court on March 21, 2003.}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 1.}{\b\insrsid13370390  }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Service of the Petition.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [17]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab 
The Respondent first argues that the Petition should be dismissed because it was not properly served on Judge Lamorena as required under Rule 24(a) of the Guam Rules of Appellate Procedure.}{\insrsid13370390  
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [18]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab Rule 24(a) provides in relevant part:}{\insrsid15932629 
\par }{\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Application for a Writ of Mandamus or Writ of Prohibition directed to a judge or judges shall be made by filing a petition therefor with the Clerk of the Supreme Court with proof of service on the respondent judge or judges and o
n all parties to the action in the Superior Court. 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par GRAP 24(a).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 It is clear that under GRAP 24(a), service of the petition on the lower court judge is required.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
However, GRAP 24(a) is only relevant if the petition seeks a writ }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 directed to a judge.}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 GRAP 24(a).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Here, the Petitioner seeks a writ directed to the Superior Court.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The Superior Court is the proper party respondent under the facts of this case because the Bank essentially seeks a review of a judicial act, that is, the recusal judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s decision denying the Bank}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s request to recuse Judge Lamorena.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See Albert v. United States Dist. Court}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 283 F.2d 61, 61-63 (6th Cir. 1960), }{
\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 overruled on other grounds in }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 919 F.2d 1136 (6th Cir. 1990) (recognizing that an order denying a request for disqualification is a judicial decision and thus a judicial action).}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 In such a circumstance, the judge is not the appropriate party respondent.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  }{
\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Gresham v. Superior Court}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 112 P. 2d 965, 967 (Cal. Dist. Ct. App. 1941) (}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 In an application for a writ of mandate directed to a court relative to a judicial act, the judge of the court is not a proper party respondent.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ); }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 see}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 also Pettie v. Superior Court}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 3 Cal. Rptr. 267, 682-82}{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 (sustaining a judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s demurrer to a petition which sought review of a judicial decision because while the petitioner sought }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 a writ of mandate directed individually to the judge of the respondent court . . . . the judge of the court is not a proper party respondent in such a proceeding}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ).}{\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid15932629 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\cs15\super\insrsid15932629 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid15932629  In certain circumstances, a judge is the proper party respondent.  This includes where }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 the ground for the application is extrinsic to the merits of a decision,}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629  such as where the petitioner seeks to force a particular judge to rule on a motion or other request presented to him for a decision.   }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 Rapp v. Van Dusen}
{\fs20\insrsid15932629 , 350 F.2d 806, 813 (3d Cir. 1965).}{\insrsid15932629  }}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Hence, a petition for extraordinary relief seeking review of a judicia
l decision does not seek a writ directed to a judge of the Superior Court.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Rather, such a petition is one which seeks a writ directed to the lower court.}{\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid15932629 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid15932629  The distinction here is not on the party }{
\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 named}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 , in a literal sense, as the respondent in the petition.  Admittedly, even a petition seeking a writ directed to a judge must not name the judge as the respondent.  }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 See }{
\fs20\insrsid15932629 GRAP 24(e) (}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 Petitions for Writs of Mandamus, Prohibition or other extraordinary relief }{
\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 directed to a judge}{\fs20\insrsid15932629  shall bear the title of the Superior Court and not bear the name of the Superior Court judge or judges in the caption.}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 ).   Rather, the distinction we identify is on whom the writ which is sought is }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 directed towards}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
.  Where a petitioner seeks review of a judicial decision, the petitioner seeks a writ directed to the lower court, and not a judge. }}}{\insrsid15932629 
\par }{\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [19]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab Thus, because the Bank seeks a writ directed to the Superior Court, and not a particular judge, GRAP 24(a) does not govern this case.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The question arises as to which rule governs the filing of the instant Petition.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The answer is found in GRAP 24(c), which is the default rule and applies to all petitions for extraordinary relief not contemplated in GRAP 24(a) and (b).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
 GRAP 24(c).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 GRAP 24(c) provides:}{\insrsid15932629 
\par }{\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Application for extraordinary writs other than those provided for in subdivisions (a) and (b) of this Rule shall be made by petition filed with the clerk of this Court with proof of service on
 the parties named as respondents. Proceedings on such application shall conform, so far as is practicable, to the procedure prescribed in subdivisions (a) and (b) of this Rule.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par GRAP 24(c).}{\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid15932629 \chftn }{\insrsid15932629  }
{\fs20\insrsid15932629 We favor a departure from the procedure announced in GRAP 24(a) in cases like the present one wherein the writ proceeding is brought to review a lower court}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 s decision.  }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 See Rapp v. Van Dusen}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 , 350 F.2d 806, 812 (3d Cir. 1965); }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 
Alexander v. Primerica Holdings, Inc.}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 , 10 F.3d 155 (3d Cir. 1993) (finding that the recusal of a lower court judge was necessary because the judge}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 s participation in the mandamus proceedings raised an appearance of partiality). }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{
\fs20\insrsid15932629 
[W]here the purpose of [a writ proceeding] . . .  is to secure what is in effect an interlocutory review of the intrinsic merits of a judicial act, the procedure should not be the same as that which is appropriate for complaint against a judge}{
\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 s conduct which is extrinsic to the merits of a decision.}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629   }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 Rapp v. Van Dusen}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 , 350 F.2d 806, 813 (3d Cir. 1965).  In cases where a lower court}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 s decision is challenged, the procedure adopted should be designed to prevent the lower court judge }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 from becoming entangled as an active party to litigation in which his role is judicial and in which he has no personal interest.}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629   }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 Id}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 . at 813-14.  By preventing the judge from participating as a party, }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 [a] judge will thus be guarded from engaging in ex parte
 discussions with counsel or aligning himself even temporarily with one side in pending litigation. . . . The procedure . . . will safeguard the administration of justice against even the appearance of loss of impartiality.}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629  }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 Id}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 . at 813-14; }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 see also Alexander v. Primerica Holdings, Inc.}{
\fs20\insrsid15932629 , 10 F.3d 155, 165 (3d Cir. 1993)}{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629  }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 (finding that the practice of not having the judge participate actively in a mandamus proceeding was }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 intended to prevent a district court judge from assuming, or being perceived to assume, an adversarial position.}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 ).  }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 [A] judge}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 s {\*\bkmkstart Document0zzSDUNumber36}{\*\bkmkend Document0zzSDUNumber36}
participation in a case must never reach the point where it appears, or is even perceived to appear, that the judge is aligned with any party in the pending litigation.}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629   }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 Alexander v. Primerica Holdings, Inc.}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 , 10 F.3d 155, 166 (3d Cir. 1993); }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 see also }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
Fed. R. App. P. 21(a) (providing the procedure when a judicial act is being challenged in a writ proceeding); Comment, Fed. R. App. P. 21 (regarding 1996 amend.) (}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 Most often a petition for a writ of mandamus seeks review of the intrinsic merits of a judge}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{
\fs20\insrsid15932629 s action and is in reality an adversary proceeding between the parties. . . . In order to change the tone of the rule, the rule is amended so that the judge is not treated as a respondent.}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 ).  
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid15932629 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid15932629 GRAP 24(a), as currently written, reflects a procedure which is entirely proper in the rare case where the petitioner seeks a writ directed to the lower court }{
\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 judge}{\fs20\insrsid15932629  as distinguished from the lower court.  The procedure announced therein is not appropriate where the lower court is the proper respondent; that is, where the writ proceeding was brought
 to review a judicial decision.  In such cases, like the present one, the better practice is to follow the default procedure outlined in GRAP 24(c).  Compelling policy reasons support a departure from GRAP 24(a) in this case.  Allowing the lower court jud
ge to be a respondent and participate in the proceedings without this court}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
s permission could place the lower court judge in an adversarial position and aligned with a particular party.  Such alignment raises an 
appearance of partiality in the proceedings.  Thus, by placing this proceeding within GRAP 24(c), we herein find that the lower court judge is not properly made a party to the writ proceeding.  Ultimately, the appearance of an impartial tribunal is preser
ved.  }}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [20]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab GRAP 24(c) requires proof of service of the petition on the respondents.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Here, the Respondent is the Superior Court, not Judge Lamorena.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Therefore, the Bank was not required to serve a copy of the Petition on Judge Lamorena an
d the failure to serve the Petition on him is not fatal to the instant case.}{\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid15932629 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid15932629  The requirement that the Petition be served on the Respondent Superior Court is consistent with 7 GCA }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 31205}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
s requirement that in the case of an alternative writ, a copy of the petition must be served on }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
each person against whom the writ is sought.}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629   Title 7 GCA }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 31205 (1993).  Here the writ was sought against the Superior Court. }}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [21]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab Finally, we observe that GRAP 24(c) requires that the petition contain a proof of service on the respondent.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Here, the Bank}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
s Petition did not contain a proof of service on the Respondent Superior Court as required under GRAP 24(c).}{\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid15932629 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid15932629  The proof of service indicated that the Petition was served on Judge Lamorena and the attorneys for the opposing parties.}{
\insrsid15932629 
\par }}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Furthermore, the Alternative Writ was issued notwithstanding that a non-compliant proof of service was filed.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 From these circumst
ances, a question automatically arises as to whether the issuance of the Alternative Writ was proper.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Our answer is yes.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
While GRAP 24(c) requires that the petition be accompanied by a proof of service on the respondent, this court clearly has the authority to issue an alternative writ without prior service of the petition on the respondent.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 31205 (1993).}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Section 31205 authorizes the court to issue an alternative writ }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ex parte}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , or without due notice.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Therefore, the requirement in GRAP 24(c) that the petition for an alternative writ contain a proof of service is not jurisdictional.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 At most }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 due process requires notice and service of the petition at some po
int before the hearing on the merits,}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
 and not necessarily prior to the filing of the petition for an alternative writ.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 C}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ALIFORNIA}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  C}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 IVIL}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  W}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 RITS}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  11.3 (Elaine K. Frank ed., 1970).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Therefore, the fact that an Alternative Writ was issued without the required proof of service does not render the Alternative Writ jurisdictionally defective.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Moreover, the fact that a hearing was held prior to the filing of a proof of service on the Respondent Superior Court does not render these writ proceedings jurisdictionally defective.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The Superior Court did not challenge service on the Respondent Superior Court in its opposition to the Petition.}{\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid15932629 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid15932629  The Superior Court only raised a challenge to the alleged defect in service of the petition on the Presiding Judge. }{\insrsid15932629  }}
}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Therefore, any defect in service on the Respondent Superior Court was waived.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  Title 7 GCA }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 31501 (1993) (stating that the Ru
les of Civil Procedure constitute the rules of practice in proceedings for writs of mandamus and prohibition); Guam R. Civ. P. 12(h)(1) (stating that the failure to raise a defect in service in either a motion to dismiss or an initial pleading constitutes
 a waiver of the defect).
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [22]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab The finding of a waiver makes it unnecessary to determine whether service on Judge Lamorena}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s chamber clerk is sufficient to satisfy the requirement that the petition 
be served on the Superior Court. We note, however, for the benefit of the parties, that service of the Petition on the Superior Court is properly accomplished by personally delivering a copy to the Clerk of Court of the Superior Court at his place of work
.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Furthermore, GRAP 24(c) does not require proof of service on the parties in the lower court who oppose the petitioner.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
We rule that if a petitioner seeks review of a judicial decision made in the lower court, the petition must be served on both the respondent Superior Court of Guam, as well as on all other parties in the lower court proceeding.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 In stating this new requirement, we are guided by the instruction in GRAP 24(c) that the procedure for filing petitions under subsection (c) should model as closely as practicable the requirements of GRAP 24 (a) and (b).}
{\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid15932629 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
 Moreover, in cases where a lower court decision is challenged, the parties in the lower court proceedings, and not the lower court, are the proper parties to appear and argue the writ proceeding in this court.}{\insrsid15932629   }}}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 We will also require that a copy of the petition be provided to the judge that rendered the challenged decision.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The judge need not be formally served with a copy of the petition.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The petition can be left with a member of the judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s chamber team, who will be responsible for immediately transmitting the copy of the petition to the judge.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 

\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 2.}{\b\insrsid13370390  }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Answer by Respondent.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [23]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab The Respondent also challenges the sufficiency of the Alternative Writ of Prohibition issued by this court on March 21, 2003.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The Respondent argues that Rule 24(b) of the Guam Rules of Appellate Procedure require that the court allow the respondent to file an answer before the issuance of a writ.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 GRAP 24 (b) provides in relevant part:
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 If this court is of the opinion that the writ should not be granted, it shall deny the petition. }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Otherwise, it shall order that an answer to the petition be filed by the respondents within the time fixed by the order}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 . . . . 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par GRAP 24(b) (2000) (emphasis added).
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [24]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab The Respondent alleges that the court}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s failure to allow it to file an answer to the petition prior to the issuance of the Alternative Writ was in violation of GRAP 24(b) and constituted a violation of the Respondent}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s due process rights.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [25]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab As stated earlier, GRAP 24(a) and (b) do not govern the procedure in this case.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Rather, t
he case is governed by GRAP 24(c), which does not contain a requirement that the respondent be allowed to file an answer prior to the issuance of an alternative writ.}{\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid15932629 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\cs15\super\insrsid15932629 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
 In the Alternative Writ of Prohibition and Order of March 23, 2003, this court ordered Respondent Superior Court to file an opposition to the Petition pursuant to GRAP 24(b).  After thorough review of GRAP 24, we find that GRAP 24(a) and (b), which treat
 
the lower court judge as a party to the proceeding, are not the appropriate rules to govern this proceeding.  Moreover, even assuming GRAP 24(b) applied to this proceeding, for the reasons stated in this paragraph we interpret the rule as requiring that t
he respondent judge be allowed to file an answer prior to the issuance of a }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 peremptory }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 writ, and not an alternative writ.}{\insrsid15932629   }}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Moreover, the Respondent}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s due process contention is tenuous because it is inconsistent
 with general writ practice.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Specifically, alternative writs may generally be issued immediately, without awaiting a response, and may thus be issued }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ex parte}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 .}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 C}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ALIFORNIA}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  C}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
IVIL}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  W}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 RITS}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  5.46; 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
 31205 (providing that an alternative writ must first issue if the petition is filed without notice to the other party).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 An alternative writ of prohibition }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 is in the nature of an order to show cause . . . .}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 C}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ALIFORNIA}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  C}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 IVIL}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  W}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 RITS}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  5.46 (discussing alternative writs of mandate); }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 see also }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Title}{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 7 GCA }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 31204 (1993) (defining an alternative writ).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
When an alternative writ is issued, the respondent is allowed the opportunity to be heard on the date specified by the court.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Thus, the issuance of an alternative writ before directing the respondent to file an answer does not raise due process concerns.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 This is in contrast to a peremptory writ, which is }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 an order commanding the respondent to immediately do the act required to be performed.}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 C}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ALIFORNIA}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  C}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 IVIL}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  W}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 RITS}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  5.47.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Because of their final nature, peremptory writs may only issue }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 after notice, by either alternative writ or notice of motion, and only after a hearing on the merits.
}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Id}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 .; }{
\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 see }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 31205.}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Here, the Respondent was allowed to file a response in opposition to the Petition and was allowed to argue the matter at the hearing.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Under these circumstances, we find that the Respondent}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s due process rights were not violated.}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [26]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab In accordance with the foregoing, we reject the Respondent}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s challenges to the procedural aspects of this writ proceeding. 
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 B.}{\b\insrsid13370390  }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Merits of the Petition.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [27]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab We next decide whether a peremptory writ of prohibition should be issued.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 A writ of prohibition }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
arrests the proceedings of any tribunal, corporation, board, or person exercising judicial functions, when such proceedings are without or in excess of the jurisdiction of such tribunal, corporation, board or person.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Title 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 31301 (1993).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The issue here is whether the Respondent Superior Court exceeded its jurisdiction in denying the Bank}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s motion to recuse Judge Lamorena.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
See Topasna}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 1996 Guam 5 at }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  4.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [28]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab When appealing a denial of a motion for a judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s disqualification after final judgment, this court reviews the decision for an abuse of discretion.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See Ada v. Gutierrez}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
, 2000 Guam 22, }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  10.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Because the Bank essentially seeks a review of the recusal judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s Order denying the Bank}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s recusal motion, we similarly review the denial for an abuse of discretion.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See United States v. Parilla Bonilla}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 626 F.2d 177, 179 n.2 (1st Cir. 1980) (}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Whether treated as an exercise of our mandamus}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 power,}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
. . . or as an exercise of appellate jurisdiction, the question before us is the same: whether}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 the district court abused its discretion in denying the recusal motion.}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ) (citation omitted); }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Matter of Billedeaux}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 972 F.2d 104, 105 (5th Cir. 1992) (deciding whether a writ of mandate, and, or prohibition seeking disqualification of a lower court judge should be granted by asking whether the judge }{
\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 abused her discretion}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  in denying a motion for her disqualification).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
This case also requires the court to interpret the local recusal statutes.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 We review issues of statutory interpretation, including the interpretation of the recusal statutes, }{
\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 de novo}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 .}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See Mesngon v. Government of Guam}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \'b8 2003 Guam 3, }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  8; }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Dizon v. Superior Court}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
, 1998 Guam 3, }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  10.
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [29]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab The Bank raises various issues relating to the recusal judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s procedural and substantive rulings.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Petition, pp. 11-14 (March 20, 2003).}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The Respondent and Real Parties in Interest similarly offer many challenges to the issuance of a peremptory writ in this case.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Because the issues presented by the Bank and the opposing parties are numerous, we limit our discussion to those issues that are relevant to the resolution of the Petition.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
We first discuss the general rules governing the disqualification of a judge, and then present an analysis of the dispositive issues.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 1.}{\b\insrsid13370390  }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Disqualification Procedure.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [30]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab The procedure for disqualifying a judge is set forth in Title 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 That section provides in relevant part:
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Objection to competency; procedure.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Whenever a Justice or Judge who shall be disqualified un
der the provisions of this Chapter to sit or act as such in any action or proceeding pending before him or her neglects or fails to declare his or her disqualification in the manner provided by this Chapter, any party to such action or proceeding who has 
appeared therein may present to the court and file with the clerk a }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 written statement objecting}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
 to the hearing of such matter or any trial of any issue of fact or law in such action or proceeding before such Justice or Judge, and setting forth the fact or f
acts constituting the ground of the disqualification of such Justice or Judge. Copies of such written statement shall forthwith be }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 served}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
 by the presenting party on each party, or his or her attorney, who has appeared in the action or proceeding and }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 on the Justice or Judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
 alleged in such statement to be disqualified.}{\insrsid15932629 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Within ten (10) days after the service}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
 of such statement as above provided, or ten (10) days after the filing of any statement, whichever is later in time, the Justice or Judge alleged therein to be disqualified may file with the clerk his or her consent in writing that the acti
on or proceeding continue without him or her, or may file with the clerk his or her }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 written answer}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
 admitting or denying any or all of the allegations contained in such statement and setting forth any additional fact or facts material or relevant to the question of his or her disqualification. . . . }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Every such statement and every answer shall be verified in the manner prescribed for the verification of pleadings}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 . . . . }{\insrsid15932629 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 . . . }{\insrsid15932629 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 If such Judge admits his or her disqualification, or files his or her written cons
ent that the action or proceeding be tried before another Judge, or }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 fails to file the answer within the ten (10) days allowed}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
, or if it shall be determined after the hearing that he or she is disqualified, }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 the action or proceeding shall be heard and determined by another Judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
 of the Superior Court who is not disqualified. Such other Judge shall be assigned in the same manner as the Judge who was disqualified was assigned to hear the case initially.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par Title 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107 (1993) (emphasis added).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Title 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107 was taken from portions of California Code of Civil Procedure }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 170.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Comment, 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107 (1993).}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The corresponding California section has since been amended and the recusal procedures which are found in 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107 are now codified as California Civil Procedure Code }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  170.3.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Compare }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107, }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 with }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Cal. Civ. Proc. Code }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  170.3.}{\insrsid15932629 
\par }{\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 2.}{\b\insrsid13370390  }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Analysis.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [31]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab The first procedural issue deals with the service requirement under 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The Bank argues that the recusal judge erred in holding that the Bank failed to properly serve the Request for Recusal on Judge Lamorena. 
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [32]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab Section 6107 provides that copies of a written disqualification statement }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 shall forthwith be served by the presenting party on each party, or his or her attorney, who has appeared in the action or proceeding and on the Justice or Judge alleged in s
uch statement to be disqualified.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107.
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [33]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab The recusal judge interpreted section 6107 to require personal service.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 He offered several reasons supporting thi
s interpretation.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 First, agreeing with the decision in }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Guam Top Partners, Inc. v. Tanota Partners}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
, CV0558-99 (May 1, 2002), the recusal judge found that because 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107 requires servic
e on the judge, and does not provide alternate means of service, }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
service must be made personally on the Judge.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Petition, Exhibit 1 (Decision and Order, p. 5).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Secon
d, the recusal judge found that due to the importance of disqualification requests with regard to the legitimacy of the judicial system, the strict statutory requirements for recusal should be met.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The court found that given the heavy workload of Superior
 Court judges, it is important that a judge receive the recusal request at the earliest possible time considering that they are required under section 6107 to file an answer to the disqualification request within ten days after being served the request.}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Thus, to facilitate a judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
s ability to file an answer within ten days, the judge should be personally served.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Petition, Exhibit 1 (Decision and Order, pp. 6-7).}{\insrsid15932629 

\par }{\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [34]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab The court then provided the manner in which personal service was to be accomplished.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
In doing so, the court found that the statute was }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 not so rigid}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  as to define personal service as }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 putting the written request into the judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s own hands.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Petition, Exhibit 1 (Decision and Order, p. 8).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The court found that personal service was to be satisfied in accordance with the judge}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 particular system for accepting service of recusal requests.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Petition, Exhibit 1 (Decision and Order, p. 8).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The recusal judge ultimately found that by leaving a copy of the request with Judge Lamorena}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s chamber clerk, the Bank failed to properly serve the recusal request on the Presiding Judge.
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [35]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab As shown above, the recusal judge first found that section 6107 required personal service, but then found that }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 personal service}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  did not necessarily mean actual hand delivery to the judge.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The Bank argues that the lower court erred in both interpreting the statute to require personal service and in defining personal service to mean the manner of service acceptable to the particular judge.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The issue before this court is whether personal service is required under section 6107, and, if not, what type of service is required.
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [36]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab We initially recognize that section 6107 does not explicitly require }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 personal}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
 service; rather, it requires that the disqualification motion be }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 served . . .on the judge . . . .}
{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 This is in contrast to the California Civil Procedure Code }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  170 which after amendment now provides: }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Copies of the statement [of disqualification] . . . shall be }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 personally }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
served on the judge alleged to be disqualified, or on his or her clerk, provided that the judge is present in the courthouse or in chambers.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Cal. Civ. Proc. Code }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
 170.3(c)(1) (emphasis added).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Thus, unlike the California statute, the Guam counterpart is silent as to whether }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 personal}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
 service is required.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Because section 6107 does not limit service on the judge to }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 personal}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
 service, the statute is ambiguous thus requiring this court to employ other methods of statutory interpretation.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See Aguon v. Gutierrez}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 2002 Guam 14, }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  9 (}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 We find that the wording of the statute . . . can be subject to both parties}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  interpretations, and is therefore ambiguous. . . .}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 A statute}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s context includes looking at other provisions of the same statute and other related statutes.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ) (citations omitted).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [T]he language of the statute cannot be read in isolation}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
 and we therefore examine other provisions within section 6107 in determining legislative intent.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Id}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 .; }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 see also}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Sumitomo v. Government of Guam}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 2001 Guam 23, }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  17 (}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
[W]ords and people are known by their companions.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ) (quoting }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Gutierrez v. Ada}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 528 U.S. 250, 255, 120 S. Ct. 740, 744, 145 L. Ed. 2d 747 (2000)).}{\insrsid15932629 
\par }{\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [37]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab Viewing the statute as a whole, we find that personal service is in fact required under section 6107.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 As pointed out
 by EIE Guam, section 6107 provides for service of the recusal request on a party }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 or his attorney}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , and then provides that service of the request is to be made on the judge.}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The fact that the statute provides for alternative means of service with regard to
 serving a party, but does not similarly provide for alternative means of serving the judge, indicates that personal service on the judge is required.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Reference to California Civil Procedure Code }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  170.3 illuminates this point.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The California statute provides that a recusal request is to be served on the judge personally }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 or his clerk}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 .}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  Cal. Civ. Proc. Code }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  170.3.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 By contrast, 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107 merely provides that service
 is to be made on the judge.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 There is no mention in section 6107 of any other means of service.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The fact that the statute does not pr
ovide any other method of service on a judge indicates}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 that service must be made on the judge personally, i.e., personal service.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 B}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 LACK}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 S}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  L}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 AW}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  D}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ICTIONARY}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  (7th ed. 1999) (defining }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 personal service}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  as }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
actual delivery of the notice or process to the person to whom it is directed.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ).}{\insrsid15932629 

\par }{\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [38]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab Moreover, as stated earlier, 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107 was taken from California Code of Civil Procedure }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  170.}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Prior to amendment, the California section contained language identical to our section 6107.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
At the hearing on this matter, EIE Guam argued that the California statute was amended in 1984 to include the phrase }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 personal}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  service on the judge in an ef
fort to distinguish the personal service rule under the former statute from the new requirement that service on a judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s chamber clerk is allowed.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 We agree.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 When the California section contained language simil
ar to the language of 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107, and did not specify that }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
personal}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  service on the judge was required, the California statute was impliedly interpreted as requiring personal service of the recusal request on the judge.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
See Bollotin v. Stockton Sav. & Loan Bank}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 277 P.2d 519, 520 (Cal. Dist. Ct. App. 1955) (finding that proceedings in the case were suspended when the disqualification statement was filed and }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 personal service}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  of the statement was made on the judge).}{\insrsid15932629 
\par }{\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [39]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab Finally, the recusal judge found that personal service includes the judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
particular system for accepting service of recusal requests.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Petition, Exhibit 1 (Decision and Order, p. 8).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 This ruling in fact endorses substitute service, and not personal service }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 per se}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 .}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Service can be distinguished by both the manner in which service is accomplished (i.e., through hand-delivery vs. the mail), and who is served (i.e., the individual vs. their agent or representative).}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 It is recognized that personal service is hand-delivery to the individual, whereas service by other means, however distinguished, is substitute service.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 5 A}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 M}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 . J}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 UR}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 . A}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 PPELLATE}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  R}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 EVIEW}{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  345 (2002) (describing service by mail to be a substitute for personal service); }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Sours v. State Dir. of Highways}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 175 N.E.2d 77, 78-79 (Ohio}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 (1961) (characterizing service by delivery at the individual}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s abode as substitute service).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Thus, personal service is most accurately and basically defined as hand-delivery to the individual.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See Blankenship v. Kaldor}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 57 P.3d 295, 297 (Wash. Ct. App. 2002).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 This is consistent with the definition of }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 personal service}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  in Black}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
s Law Dictionary as }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 actual delivery of the notice or process to the person to whom it is directed.}
{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 B}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 LACK}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 S}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  L}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 AW}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  D}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ICTIONARY}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  (7th ed. 1999).}{\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid15932629 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid15932629  Note that the distinction between personal and substitute service has been blurred by court rules which define personal service to }{
\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 include}{\fs20\insrsid15932629  certain types of substitute service, such as delivery to an agent.  }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 See e.g., }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 GRAP 10(c) (providing that personal service }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 includes}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
 delivery to an employee at an attorney}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 s office).}{\insrsid15932629   }}}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Because the recusal judge effectively interpreted section 6107 as permitting substitute service, this interpretation was erroneous and is clarified here.}{\insrsid15932629 
\par }{\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [40]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab Moreover, the rule created by the recusal judge is undesirable because it creates inconsistent procedures governing proper service on a judge.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Any rule regarding the method of service should be straightforward and consistently applied so that litigants know what is expected of them and may properly comply with the rule without having to make an i
ndependent investigation of the particular desires of a certain judge.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
A uniform rule would also allow the recusal judge and reviewing court to consider the sufficiency of service without the complications inherent in considering other variables which may change on a case-by-case basis.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Thus, we find that under section 6107, a recusal statement must be served on the judge personally, into the judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s hands.}{\insrsid15932629 
\par }{\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [41]\tab }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Finally,}{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 we concur with the Bank}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s contention that, as a policy matter, the service requirement in section 6107 should not be limited to personal service on a judge.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 By providing that the judge be served, it is evident that the legislature intended that the judge against whom recusal is sought be given notice of the recusal request.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 While notice is obviously accomplished via personal service, a better rule would be to allow substitute service considering how unworkable it would be to require parties to seek out the judge whom service is directed.}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See Clemens v. Dist. Court}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 390 P.2d 83, 87 (Colo. 1964) (}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 As frequently pointed out, there would be indefinite delays in administration of justice, the equiva
lent of a denial of justice, if some other mode of notice than the personal service of process was not authorized.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ) (citation omitted).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Moreover, interpreting the service requirement under section 6107 as placing the document into the judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s hands is invariably impracticable considering that judges are often unapproachable due to courthouse security procedures.}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Some judges make themselves unapproachable even outside the courthouse by employing marshals to guard them.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Considering the hurdles a party may be required to surpass to accomplish service by delivery into the hands of the judge, a better rule should allow for service in other ways which are reasonably calculated to give the judge notice of the recusal request.
}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 One option would be to allow service on a responsible person other than the judge, such as the Clerk of Court or the judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s chamber clerk.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Notwithstanding o
ur views on the matter, we are constrained by the legislative intent revealed in the statutory language.}{\insrsid15932629 
\par }{\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [42]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab Here, the Bank served the recusal request on Judge Lamorena by delivery to his chamber clerk.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
In accordance with the foregoing, we find that the Bank failed to properly serve the request on the Presiding Judge.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Nonetheless, we find that the defect in service of the request was waived.}{
\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid15932629 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
 At this juncture, we note the argument posited by the Real Parties in Interest that the Bank}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
s recusal request was deficient because it was verified by the Bank}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
s attorney and not the Bank as required under the recusal statute.  We find that the recusal request complied with section 6107.  }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 See }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 Guam Civ. Proc. Code }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 446; Title 6 GCA }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 4308;}{
\i\fs20\insrsid15932629  cf. Hollingsworth v. Superior Court}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 , 236 Cal. Rptr. 193, 194-95 (Ct. App. 1987) (finding that the attorney}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 s declaration, alleging the basis for the disqualification request and executed under the penalty of perjury, was sufficient to satisfy the verification requirement under section 170.3). 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid15932629  }}}{\insrsid15932629 
\par }{\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [43]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab We agree with the recusal judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s finding that because service was deficient, the Presiding Judge was not required to file an answer.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
However, Judge Lamorena did in fact file an answer, and in doing so, did not raise the defect in service of the recusal request.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Thus, by answering the recusal request and failing to raise the defect in service in his answer, Judge Lamorena waived the defect.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
It is uniformly recognized that instances where service has been declared }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 jurisdictional}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
, (such as personal service of a complaint or summons), a defect in personal service can be waived.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See City of S. Pasedena v. Mineta}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
, 284 F.3d 1154, 1156 (9th Cir. 2002) (}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [M]ost jurisdictiona
l objections--such as defects in personal jurisdiction, venue or service of process--are waived unless asserted early in the litigation.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ) (citations omitted).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Waiver is found if a party appears in the proceeding without raising the objection either by motion or in a responsive pleading.}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 GRCP 12.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
We find no reason to not extend the waiver principles to the service requirement under section 6107.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Accordingly, under the foregoing authorities, we find that Ju
dge Lamorena waived the defect in service and the defect thus did not invalidate the Bank}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
s disqualification request.}{\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid15932629 
\chftn }{\fs20\insrsid15932629  The Bank also argues that Judge Lamorena waived personal service because at a hearing on Mar
ch 6, 2002, he acknowledged on the record that he received the recusal request which was filed and served on that day.  We disagree.  }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{
\fs20\insrsid15932629 [A]ctual notice does not constitute sufficient service.}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629   }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 
Gerean v. Martin-Joven}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 , 33 P.3d 427, 431 (Wash. App. 2001) (finding that where the statute prescribed the manner of service, the statute could not be completely abandoned); }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 see also Thiele v. Stich}{
\fs20\insrsid15932629 , 425 N.W.2d 580, 584 (Minn. 1988) (finding that because service of process could only be made via personal service or service at the individual}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 s abode, service on the individual}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 s secretary at his or 
her place of work was insufficient notwithstanding that the individual received actual notice). }{\insrsid15932629  }}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [44]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab Having found that service on Judge Lamorena was waived, the issue is whether his failure to file an answer within ten days as required under section 610
7 mandated the appointment of another judge.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The answer is found in the statutory language.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Section 6107 expressly provides that if a judge }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 fails to file the answer within the ten (10) days allowed, . . . the action or proceeding }{
\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 shall be heard and determined}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  by another Judge.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The statute could not be clearer in directing the remedy for failing to file an answer within ten days.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Cf. Lewis v. Superior Court}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 244 Cal. Rptr. 328, 329 (Ct. App. 1988) (finding that the judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
s failure to file an answer mandated disqualification because the statute provided that }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
[a] judge who fails to file . . . [an] answer within time allowed shall be deemed to have consented to his or her disqualification}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ) (citation and internal emphasis omitted).}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Where a statute is clear on its face, there is no need to look beyond the statutory language.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See Sky Enter. v. Kobayashi}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 2003 Guam 5 }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  11 (}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
When the language of a statute is unambiguous, the analysis stops there.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ) (citation omitted).}{
\insrsid15932629 
\par }{\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [45]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab We do note, however, that while Judge Lamorena}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s failure to file an answer would warrant disqualification under the statute, the recusal judge here allowed Judge Lamorena additional time to file an answer.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
In light of the presence of the ten-day requirement in the statute, it is evident that the legislature deemed it important that recusal issues be determined in a fairly expedited manner.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
An issue regarding the disqualification of a judge should never be the cause of an inordinate delay in proceedings.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 We symp
athize with the case loads of Superior Court judges, however, the legislative intent is clear.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Accordingly, we hold that the ten-day time frame for a judge to file an answer to a disqualification request, set forth in section 6107, cannot be extended.}{\insrsid15932629 
\par }{\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [46]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab Because Judge Lamorena failed to file an answer within the ten days required under the statute, disqualification was mandated under section 6107.}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Accordingly, the recusal judge erred in finding that Judge Lamorena did not have to be disqualified.}{\cs15\super\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid15932629 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid15932629  The untimeliness of Judge Lamorena}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 s answer does not preclude a finding that he waived a defect in service of the recusal motion.  }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 See Dunklin v. First Magnus Fin. Corp.}{
\fs20\insrsid15932629 , 86 S.W.3d 22, 23-24 (Ark. Ct. App. 2002) (affirming the entry of default judgment because the defendant}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{
\fs20\insrsid15932629 s filed an untimely answer and did not raise the defect in service in the answer); }{\i\fs20\insrsid15932629 S. Transit Co. v. Collums}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 , 966 S.W.2d 906, 909 (Ark. 1998) (affirmi
ng the grant of a default judgment where the defendant filed an untimely answer to the complaint and did not raise a defect in process).  By filing an answer and failing to raise the defect, Judge Lamorena appeared generally in the recusal proceedings and
 made himself amenable to a decision of the court.  The law applicable here, specifically, 7 GCA }{\fs20\insrsid15932629 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid15932629 
6107, requires that a new judge be appointed if the challenged judge files an answer after the ten day time limit.}{\insrsid15932629 
\par }}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [47]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab Finally, we agree with the Bank that the recusal judge erred in finding that the Bank waived its right to challenge the untimeliness of Judge Lamorena}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s answer because it failed to seek a wr
it of mandate compelling the clerk to assign the case to another judge.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Title 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107 provides the procedure for seeking the disqualification of a judge.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 It provides that }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 no Judge . . . shall hear or pass upon the question of his or her own disqualification, but in every case the question of the . . . Judge}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s disqualification }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
shall be heard and determined by some other Judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 .}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107 (emphasis added).}{\insrsid13370390  }{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Thus, because the statute contemplates that the issue of disqualification be determined by a recusal judge, it would be incongruo
us to require that the party seeking disqualification in accordance with this procedure utilize other avenues such as the filing of a writ of mandate to compel disqualification.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
EIE Guam argues that a recusal judge is only allowed to rule on the substantive merits of a recusal request, and cannot grant a disqualification request on procedural grounds.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
We disagree and find that a recusal judge is permitted to make a ruling mandating disqualification on procedural grounds.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 See Urias v. Harris Farms, Inc.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 
285 Cal. Rptr. 659, 660-61 (Ct. App. 1991) (agreeing that the recusal judge properly granted a recusal request because the challenged judge failed to file an answer within ten days of service of a recusal request as required under California Civ. Proc. Co
de }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  170.3).}{\insrsid15932629 
\par }{\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [48]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab In the Petition, the Bank raises other issues supporting the issuance of a writ.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The Bank argues that Judge Lamorena}
{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 s answer to the recusal request
 was invalid because it was not verified, thus mandating disqualification.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The Bank also contends that the recusal judge erred in not finding that Judge Lamorena should be disqualified on the merits under 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6105 which mandates disqualification when a judge}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
s impartiality may reasonably be questioned.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 In light of our holding above, it is unnecessary, for purposes of resolution of the Petition, to discuss these arguments the Bank raises. 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 IV.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13370390 {\b\insrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [49]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab 
In accordance with the foregoing, we find that the recusal judge erred in finding that Judge Lamorena was not required to be disqualified from presiding over the underlying case.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Judge Lamorena failed to raise a defect in service of the Bank}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
s recusal request in his answer, thereby waiving the defect.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Further, under 7 GCA }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 6107, a judge must file an answer to his disqualification within ten days after a recusal request is served upon him.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
A failure to file a timely answer mandates that a new judge be assigned to hear the proceeding.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
Because Judge Lamorena failed to file a timely answer, he should have been disqualified from hearing the matter and a new judge should have been assigned.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Accordingly, the Bank}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
s Petition is hereby granted and a Peremptory Writ of Prohibition shall be issued permanently restraining the Respondent Superior Court from scheduling any matters before Judge Lamorena in the case of }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
The Long-Term Credit Bank of Japan}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 ,}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Ltd. v. Iwao Nomoto}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 et al.}{
\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , Superior Court Case No. CV1365-99.}{\insrsid15932629 
\par }{\insrsid13370390\charrsid13370390 
\par }{\b\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 [50]}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 \tab Because the Presiding Judge has been disqualified to hear this matter, and because the statutes are }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
silent as to what procedure must be followed to designate a judge to perform the duties of assigning cases in a situation such as this, the Court hereby invokes its inherent power in so designating a judge.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Dizon}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 , 1998 Guam 3 at }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  18.}{\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 The matter shall be assigned to the next most-senior judge of the Superior Court.}{
\insrsid13370390  }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
In the event that this judge is unavailable due to illness, absence, disqualification, conflict or recusal, the assignment shall then proceed to the next senior judge to him [or her] and so on and so forth as necessary.}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid13370390  }{\i\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 Id}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  at }{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid15932629\charrsid13370390  19.}{\insrsid13370390 
\par }}