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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465 IN THE SUPREME COURT OF GUAM
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\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 Plaintiff}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465 ,
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465 v.
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 MIASIRO I. JOHNNY a.k.a.
\par JOHNNY I. MIASIRO}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465 ,
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 Defendant}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465 .
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14354465 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 VINCENT A. AKIMOTO, M.D.,
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 Plaintiff,
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 v.
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 CARL T.C. GUTIERREZ, in his personal\line capacity; THERESE M. HART; and JOHN
\par DOES A}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 -}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 M,\line }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 Defendants.}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6304168\charrsid14354465 Supreme Court Case No.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6304168\charrsid14354465 CRQ}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 06}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 -}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 001}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465 

\par Superior Court Case No}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 s. CM0867}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 -}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 05\line \tab }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 \tab \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 CV1011}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 -}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 02}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13373571\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13373571\charrsid14354465 OPINION
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13829367\charrsid14354465 Filed:}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13829367\charrsid14354465 August 25, 2006
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465 Cite as: 2006 Guam }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14681888\charrsid14354465 10}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 Certified questions}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465  from the Superior Court of Guam
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 S}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465 ubmitted on }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13962028\charrsid14354465 February 23}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3806068\charrsid14354465 , 2006
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14354465 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid463671\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 BEFORE: F. PHILIP CARBULLIDO, Chief Justice; FRANCES M. TYDINGCO}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 -}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
GATEWOOD, Associate Justice; ROBERT J. TORRES, JR., Associate Justice.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
\par 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16207643\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 PER CURIAM:
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13901619\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16207643\charrsid14354465 [1]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
This matter comes before the court for review on questions of law regarding the ability of Superior Court judges to rule on objections made against them presiding over cases.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 We have accepted certification of two questions of law pursuant to Rule 20(a) of the Guam Rules of Appellate Procedure.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 We hold that Superior Court judges may strike a statement of objection that is procedurally defective without referring the matter to another judge.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 We
 further hold that a challenged judge may strike a statement of objection that is legally insufficient without referring such matter to a recusal judge.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465\charrsid14354465 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14354465 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 I.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14354465 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16207643\charrsid14354465 [2]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 The instant matter arose over objections to Superior Court Judge Steven S. Unpingco presiding over }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 People v. Johnny}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , Superior Court Case }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6304168\charrsid14354465 No. }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 CM0867}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 -}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 05, and }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Akimoto v. Gutierrez}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , Superior Court Case No. CV1011}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 -}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 02.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16207643\charrsid14354465 [3]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Attorney }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6304168\charrsid14354465 Delia Lujan}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , a partner with Lujan}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5244818\charrsid14354465 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
 Aguigui & Perez, filed a motion to disqualify Judge Unpingco from presiding over }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Johnny}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  on behalf of Miasiro I. Johnny.}
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 The motion alleged that}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5964075\charrsid14354465 :}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  (1) Judge Unpingco\rquote s impartiality might reasonably be questioned because the Lujan Aguigui and Perez firm had previously represented Judge Unpingco\rquote 
s wife; (2) Judge Unpingco had consistently taken an adversarial position against the Lujan}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5244818\charrsid14354465 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
 Aguigui and Perez firm; and (3) Judge Unpingco has a personal bias against the Lujan}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5244818\charrsid14354465 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  Aguigui and Perez firm.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Judge Unpingco denied the motion without referring the matter to a recusal judge on the grounds that
 the objection was untimely and legally insufficient.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16207643\charrsid14354465 [4]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Attorney }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5244818\charrsid14354465 Anthony Perez}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , also a partner with Lujan}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5244818\charrsid14354465 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
 Aguigui & Perez, filed a motion to disqualify Judge Unpingco from presiding over }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Akimoto}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
 for similar grounds on behalf of Carl T.C. Gutierrez.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 J
udge Unpingco denied that motion for lack of verification and legal insufficiency, again without referring the matter to a recusal judge.}{\cs19\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\s18\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12794994 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs19\fs24\super\insrsid11347233\charrsid11085483 \chftn }{
\fs24\insrsid11347233\charrsid11085483  }{\insrsid11347233 Judge Unpingco stated that his orders denying the motions for disqualification would alternatively serve as an answer under 7 GCA \'a7 6107 to the objections filed in both }{\i\insrsid11347233 
Johnny}{\insrsid11347233  and }{\i\insrsid11347233 Akimoto}{\insrsid11347233 .  }}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Judge Unpingco also struck an }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Erratum}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
 filed by Gutierrez in an attempt to verify the motion to disqualify. 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16207643\charrsid14354465 [5]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Judge Unpingco subsequently submitted three questions for certification regarding whether his actions in }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Johnny }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 and }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Akimoto }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 were authorized under 7 GCA \'a7 6107.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
This court accepted certification for two of the proposed questions.}{\cs19\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\s18\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12794994 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs19\fs24\super\insrsid11347233\charrsid11085483 \chftn }{
\fs24\insrsid11347233\charrsid11085483  }{\insrsid11347233 This court declined to accept certification of the following question: \'93Do the facts alleged here by the parties moving to disqualify this court rise to the level of legal sufficiency?\'94
  Submission of Questions for Certification, Feb. 23, 2006.  }}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14354465 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 II.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14354465 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16207643\charrsid14354465 [6]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 This court has jurisdiction over questions of law 
submitted by the Superior Court for certification pursuant to 7 GCA \'a7 4105 (2005).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 People v. Anson}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , 1998 Guam 11 \'b6 6.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465\charrsid14354465 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14354465 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 III.
\par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14354465 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16207643\charrsid14354465 [7]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 This court accepted certification for the following two questions:
\par 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\s17 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 1.\tab}}\pard \s17\ql \fi-547\li1267\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls2\ilvl1\rin0\lin1267\itap0\pararsid14354465 {\field\flddirty{\*\fldinst {
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  SEQ CHAPTER \\h \\r 1}}{\fldrslt }}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Do
 Guam Superior Court judges subject to a Motion to Disqualify have the power to dismiss such motions upon procedural grounds such as lack of timeliness, improper service, or improper verification, instead of referring such matters to a recusal judge?

\par }\pard\plain \ql \fi-547\li1267\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ilvl12\adjustright\rin0\lin1267\itap0\pararsid14354465 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\s17 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 2.\tab}}\pard\plain \s17\ql \fi-547\li1267\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls2\ilvl1\rin0\lin1267\itap0\pararsid14354465 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
Do Guam Superior Court judges subject to a Motion to Disqualify have the power to dismiss such motions upon the grounds of legal insufficiency of the facts alleged, instead of referring such matters to a recusal judge?}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16207643\charrsid14354465 
\par }\pard \s17\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14354465 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16207643\charrsid14354465 
\par }\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14354465 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 IV.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14354465 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16207643\charrsid14354465 [8]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Normal standards of review
 do not apply when addressing certifications of law; instead, the court addresses the matters in the context in which they arise and as if they were presented to the court in the first instance.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 " }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3433687\charrsid14354465 Anson}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3433687\charrsid14354465 , 1998 Guam 11 \'b6 6}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3433687\charrsid14354465  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 (citing }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 State v. Anderson}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , 697 A.2d
 379, 382 (Del. 1997)).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465\charrsid14354465 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14354465 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 V.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14354465 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16207643\charrsid14354465 [9]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 We note at the outset that, although many parties file a }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Motion for Disqualification,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  a statement of objection is not a motion.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Urias v. Harris Farms Inc.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , 285 Cal. Rptr. 659, 662 (Ct. App. 1991).}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Thus, the determination of a judge\rquote s disqualification is outside the usual law and motion procedural rules.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 " }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Id.}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 1.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Whether a Challenged Judge May Strike Formally De}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 fective Statements of Objection}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16207643\charrsid14354465 [10]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
The first issue for our review is whether a challenged judge may strike a statement of objection that is formally defective.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
We hold that a challenged judge may strike statements of objection which fail to meet the statutory requirements set forth in 7 GCA \'a7 6107.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16207643\charrsid14354465 [11]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Section 6107 provides that whenever a judge }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 neglects or fails to declare his or her disqualification . . . any party to such action or proceeding }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6970491\charrsid14354465 . . .}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  may present to the court and file with the clerk a written statement . . . setting forth the fact or facts constituting the ground of the disqualification of such Justice or Judge.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 " }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 7 GCA \'a7 6107 (2005).}{\cs19\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\s18\ql \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12794994 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs19\fs24\super\insrsid11347233\charrsid11085483 \chftn }{
\fs24\insrsid11347233\charrsid11085483  }{\insrsid11347233 Title 7 GCA \'a7 6107 states in pertinent part:
\par }\pard \s18\qj \fi720\li720\ri720\sa240\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid12794994 {\b\insrsid11347233 \'a7 6107.  Objection to competency; procedure.  }{\insrsid11347233 Whenever a Justice or Judge who shall be dis
qualified under 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 proceed
i
ng who has appeared therein may present to the court and file with the clerk a written statement objecting 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 
t
he fact or facts constituting the ground of the disqualification of such Justice or Judge.  Copies of such written statement shall forthwith be served by the presenting party on each party, or his or her attorney, who has appeared in the action or proceed
ing and on the Justice or Judge alleged in such statement to be disqualified.  
\par Within ten (10) days after the service 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 action or proceeding continue without him or her, or may file with the clerk his or her written answer admitting or denying any or all of the allegations co
ntained in such statement and setting forth any additional fact or facts material or relevant to the question of his or her disqualification.  The clerk shall forthwith transmit a copy of the Justice\rquote s or Judge\rquote 
s consent or answer to each party or his or he
r attorney who shall have appeared in such action or proceeding.  Every such statement and every answer shall be verified in the manner prescribed for the verification of pleadings.  The statement of a party objecting to the Justice or Judge on the ground
 of his or her disqualification shall be presented at the earliest practicable opportunity after his or her appearance and discovery of the facts constituting the ground of the Justice\rquote s or Judge\rquote 
s disqualification, and in any event before the commencement of the hearing of any issue of fact in the action or proceeding before such Justice or Judge.  
\par }\pard \s18\qj \li720\ri720\sa240\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid12794994 {\insrsid11347233 No Justice or Judge who
 shall deny his or her qualification shall hear or pass upon the question of his or her own disqualification, but in every case the question of the Justice\rquote s or Judge\rquote s disqualification shall be heard and determined by some other Judge.  

\par }\pard \s18\qj \li0\ri0\sa240\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12794994 {\insrsid11347233 7 GCA \'a7 6107.  }{\insrsid11347233\charrsid13648606   }}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 By its terms, section 6107 requires that statements of objection (1) }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
be served . . . on the Justice or Judge alleged in such statement to be disqualified,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  (2) }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 be verified in the manner prescribed for the verification of pleadings,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  and (3) }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 be presented at the earliest practicable opportunity . . . .}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 " }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Id.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 A party\rquote 
s failure to comply with any of these requirements constitutes sufficient grounds to strike or disregard the statement of objection.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
See e.g. Long Term Credit Bank of Japan v. Superior Court}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , 2003 Guam 10 \'b6 43 (observing that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 because service was deficient, the [challenged judge] was not required to file an answer.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 ).
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16207643\charrsid14354465 [12]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 The question before this court, however,
 is whether a challenged judge may strike a formally defective statement of objection or must refer the matter to another judge.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
Section 6107 provides that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
[n]o Justice or Judge who shall deny his or her disqualification shall hear or pass upon the question of his or her own disqualification, but in every case the question of the Justice\rquote s or Judge\rquote 
s disqualification shall be heard and determined by some other Judge.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 " }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 7 GCA \'a7 6107}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5573317\charrsid14354465  (2005)}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 This language prohibits a challenged judge or justice from ruling on the merits of a statement of objection.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 The threshold determination of whether a statement of objection complies with the statutory requirements set forth in 7 GCA \'a7 6107 is, however,
 separate and independent from an evaluation of the alleged grounds for a judge\rquote s disqualification.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
A judge who strikes or disregards a formally defective statement of objection has not }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
[heard] or [passed] upon the question of his or her own disqualification . . . .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Id.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
Section 6107, therefore, does not mandate that a challenged judge refer }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13771492\charrsid14354465 formally defective}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  statements to another judge.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16207643\charrsid14354465 [13]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Our interpretation of 7 GCA \'a7 6107 is consistent with California case law.}{
\cs19\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \s18\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12794994 
\fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs19\fs24\super\insrsid11347233\charrsid12794994 \chftn }{\fs24\insrsid11347233\charrsid12794994  }{\insrsid11347233 Section 6107 is derived from former Cal. Civ. Proc. Code  }{
\fs24\insrsid11347233\charrsid4139563 \'a7}{\fs24\insrsid11347233  }{\insrsid11347233 170 (West 1981) and thus California cases interpreting section 170 are persuasive authority.  }{\i\insrsid11347233 Cruz v. Cruz}{\insrsid11347233 , 2005 Guam 3 \'b6 9.  
}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 The California Court of Appeals observed in }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 People v. Ladd}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , 181 Cal. Rptr. 29 (Ct. App. 1982) that a party may file a statement of objection, but }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 [i]f such a statement is not verified, it is formally defective and may be stricken out or disregarded.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Id. }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 at 30 (citing }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7020588\charrsid14354465 Bompensiero v. Super. C}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 t}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7020588\charrsid14354465 .}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , 281 P.2d 250 (Cal. 1950)).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
Furthermore, courts have held that a challenged judge may strike a statement of objection if it is not presented at }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
the earliest practicable opportunity.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 " }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 People v. Berman}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6768272\charrsid14354465 
, 4 P.2d 226, 228 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 (Cal. Dist. Ct. App. 1931) (Conrey, J., concurring); }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7759601\charrsid14354465 Woolley v. Super. C}{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 t}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7759601\charrsid14354465 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9179543\charrsid14354465 , 66 P.2d 680, 684}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  (Cal. Dist. Ct. App. 1937); }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 People v. Sweet}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
, 65 P.2d 899 (Cal. Dist. Ct. App. 1937).}{\cs19\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \s18\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12794994 
\fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs19\fs24\super\insrsid11347233\charrsid12794994 \chftn }{\fs24\insrsid11347233\charrsid12794994  }{\insrsid11347233 The California Supreme Court has held that a party\rquote s fai
lure to file a timely statement of objection constituted a waiver under section 170.  }{\i\insrsid11347233 See Caminetti v. Pac. Mut. Life Ins. Co.}{\insrsid11347233 , 139 P.2d 930, 933 (Cal. 1943). 
\par }\pard \s18\qj \li0\ri0\sa240\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12794994 {\insrsid11347233  }}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
As section 6107 is derived from a California statute, this court will not deviate from California}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9179543\charrsid14354465  case law absent }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
compelling reason to do so.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 See Cruz}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4850293\charrsid14354465  v. Cruz}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , 2005 Guam 3 \'b6 9.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12744121\charrsid14354465 [14]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 We believe that no }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4850293\charrsid14354465 reason}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  exist}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4850293\charrsid14354465 s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  to warrant departing from California case law.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 To the contrary, policy concerns weigh in favor of a rule permitting challenged ju
dges to strike a formally defective statement of objection.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
Put simply, it is inefficient to force parties to wait unnecessarily for the resolution of a statement of objection that would ultimately be rejected for failure to comply with the statutory requ}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 irements.}
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12744121\charrsid14354465 [15]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 This court has held that 
section 6107 requires an objecting party to personally serve its statement of objection upon the challenged judge or justice.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
Long Term Credit Bank of Japan}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , 2003 Guam 10 \'b6 37.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Furthermore, 
we have determined that statements of objection must be verified in the manner set forth in 6 GCA \'a7 4308.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Id.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  at \'b6 42 n. 16.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
This court has not had occasion to announce a standard for timeliness; however, section 6107 explicitly requires that a party file its statement of objection }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 at the earliest practicable opportunity.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\cs19\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 \chftn {\footnote 
\pard\plain \s18\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12794994 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs19\fs24\super\insrsid11347233\charrsid12794994 \chftn }{
\fs24\insrsid11347233\charrsid12794994  }{\insrsid11347233 We note that parties and judges may refer to relevant California case law for guidance on this issue. }{\i\insrsid11347233 See e.g. }{\i\insrsid11347233\charrsid4329952 Berman}{\insrsid11347233 
, 4 P.2d at 227}{\insrsid11347233\charrsid4329952 ;}{\fs24\insrsid11347233  }{\i\insrsid11347233 Woolley}{\insrsid11347233 , 66 P.2d at 687-9; }{\i\insrsid11347233 Rohr v. Johnson}{\insrsid11347233 , 150 P.2d 5, 7 (Cal. Dist. Ct. App. 1944); }{
\i\insrsid11347233 Baker v. Civil Serv. Comm\rquote n}{\insrsid11347233 , 125 Cal. Rptr 162, 165 (Ct. App. 1975). }}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 7 GCA \'a7 6107.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Under our holding, whenever a party files a statement of objection that fails to comply with the service, verification or timeliness
 requirements, the challenged judge may strike the statement without referring it to another judge.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 2. Legal Sufficiency}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12744121\charrsid14354465 [16]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
We now address whether a challenged judge may evaluate a statement of objection and strike such statement if the judge determines it is legally insufficient.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12744121\charrsid14354465 [17]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 The language of section 6107 is ambiguous on this issue.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 It is a cardinal rule of statutory construction that courts must }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid984418\charrsid14354465 look }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 first to the language of the statute itself.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 " }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
Sumitomo Constr. Co., Ltd. v. Gov\rquote t of Guam}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , 2001 Guam 23 \'b6 17.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 In contrast to the timeliness, verification and service requirements discussed }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4675108\charrsid14354465 above}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , section 6107 does not explicitly require that statements of objection be legally sufficient.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Furthermore, section 6107 provides that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 [n]o Justice or Judge who sha
ll deny his or her qualification shall hear or pass upon the question of his or her own disqualification, but in every case the question of the Justice\rquote s or Judge\rquote s disqualification shall be heard and determined by some other Judge.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 " }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 7 GCA \'a7 6107.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 It is 
arguable that striking a statement of objection for lack of legal sufficiency would involve at least a cursory evaluation of the alleged grounds of disqualification and 
a challenged judge would have to refer a statement of objection that complied with the formal requirements of section 6107 to another judge.
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12744121\charrsid14354465 [18]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 \tab California case law takes a contrary position.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 California courts have read an implicit requirement that parties file a legally sufficient statement of objection to be afforded review by another judge.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 See People v. Hooper}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , 61 P.2d 370}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4608984\charrsid14354465 , 372}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  (Cal}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7157201\charrsid14354465 .}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  Dist. Ct. App. 1936) (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
[I]t is only where an appropriate issue of fact is raised concerning the disqualification of the trial judge, that he is prevented from passing \lquote upon the question of his own disqualification\rquote  under t}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7157201\charrsid14354465 he above}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 -}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7157201\charrsid14354465 mentioned section.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7157201\charrsid14354465 ).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 The California}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2500163\charrsid14354465  Supreme Court has held that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2500163\charrsid14354465 [a]}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  statement that contains nothing but conclusions and sets forth no facts constituting a ground of disqualification may be ignored or stricken from the files by the trial judge.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Where the statement is insufficient the judge can so determine, whereupon the procedure provided by section 170 is not applicable.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 " }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 People v. Sweeny}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , 357 P.2d 1049, 1053 (Cal. 1961) (citations omitted).}
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12744121\charrsid14354465 [19]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Upon closer review, the California approach is supported by section 6107.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 First, section 6107 requires that parties file a statement of objection }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 setting forth the fact or facts constituting the ground of the disqualification of such Justice or Judge.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 " }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 7 GCA \'a7 6107.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 We believe t
hat this language creates a requirement that statements of objection allege one of the grounds of disqualification found in 7 GCA \'a7 6105}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12399097\charrsid14354465  (2005)}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
Accordingly, a statement of objection which fails to allege any facts that would serve as grounds for disqualification under Guam law is defective.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 A challenged judge has not }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
[heard] or [passed] upon the question of his or her own disqualification . . .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
 by striking such a statement because, as a matter of law, no }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 question}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  of the judge\rquote s disqualification has been raised.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 7 GCA \'a7 6107.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Therefore, section 6107 does not require the judge to refer the matter to another judge.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407 

\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12744121\charrsid14354465 [20]\tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 The standard for reviewing the legal sufficiency of a statement of objection adequately preserves section 6107
\rquote s purpose of protecting a party\rquote s right to a fair and impartial judge.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
Judge Unpingco properly stated that the standard for a recusal judge reviewing the merits of a statement of objection is an objective one.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 See}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Dizon v. Superior Court}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , 1998 Guam 3 \'b6 8 (holding that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
a reasonable person standard must be applied to determine whether recusal is necessary}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 ); }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Ada v. Gutierrez}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , 2000 Guam 22}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10103404\charrsid14354465  \'b6 1}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10514544\charrsid14354465 2}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
However, when a party files a statement of objection, the challenged judge\rquote s review of the sufficiency of the statement is limited to whether it alleges any of the grounds for disqualification found in 7 GCA \'a7 6105.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 If the statement of objections meets all of the statutory 
requirements discussed above and, on its face, alleges one of the grounds found in 7 GCA \'a7 6105, then the challenged judge may not strike the statement but must follow the procedure set forth in 7 GCA \'a7 6107.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 3. Writ of Prohibition is an Appropriate Method of Review}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12744121\charrsid14354465 [21]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 \tab Furthermore, }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13136755\charrsid14354465 recognizing}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465  the purpose of section 6107, we hold that a party may seek review of a judge\rquote s decision to strike a statement of objection through a writ proceeding.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Guam\rquote 
s writ statutes collectively set forth three requirements for the proper issuance of a writ of prohibition: (1) the proceedings are without or in excess of a tribunal\rquote 
s jurisdiction; (2) the petitioner is without a plain, speedy, and adequate remedy at law; and (3) the petitioner is a beneficially interested party.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 7 GCA \'a7\'a7 31301, 31302}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9396725\charrsid14354465  (2005)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 .}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 See also People v. Superior Cour}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3631275\charrsid14354465 t }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 (Laxamana)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , 2001 Guam}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10970315\charrsid14354465  26 }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 \'b6 8.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
A challenged judge would be acting in excess of its jurisdiction if it improperly refused to refer a statement of objection to another judge.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Laxamana}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10970315\charrsid14354465 , 2001 Guam 26 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 \'b6 
16 (observing that a court has acted in excess of its jurisdiction when it exceeds its authority }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9255258\charrsid14354465 \lquote }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 whether that power be defined by constitutional provision, express statutory declaration, or rules developed by the courts and followed under the doctrine of stare decisis}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9255258\charrsid14354465 \rquote  . . .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 ) (}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13058170\charrsid14354465 quoting }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13058170\charrsid14354465 Abelleira v. Dist. Ct.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13058170\charrsid14354465 
, 109 P.2d 942, 948 (Cal. 1994)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10307861\charrsid14354465 )}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 This court has also previously held that a writ of prohibition is a proper channel for reviewing the qualifications of a judge to preside over a case.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Dizon}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , 1998 Guam 3 \'b6 6 (citing }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Topasna v. Superior Court}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 , 1996 Guam 5 \'b6 5).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 For [a petitioner] to have to wait for the completion of a trial . . . before being able to appeal the case on [the] same issue leaves him without a plain, speedy, adequate remedy.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 " }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Id.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
We agree with the reasoning in }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Dizon }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 that a post}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 -}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 trial appeal of a decision to strike a statement of objection would be inadequate. Therefore, it would be proper for parties to institute a writ proceeding to review a judge\rquote 
s decision to strike a statement of objection because of the legal sufficiency of the statement or failure to comply with the statutory requirements set forth in 7 GCA \'a7 6107.
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 
\par VI.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12744121\charrsid14354465 [22]}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 
We hold that a judge may strike a statement of objection if it fails to comply with the strict requirements set forth in 7 GCA \'a7 6107 without referring it to another judge.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 Furthermore, a judge may strike a statement of objection if it does not allege sufficient grounds for disqualification under Guam law.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14354465  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5910407\charrsid14354465 If, however, a party files a statement of objection that meets all of the statutory requirements and, on its face, alleges one of the grounds of disqualification found in 7 GCA \'a7
 6105, the judge may not act on the statement and must refer the matter to another judge.
\par }}